Photo Safari Oostvaardersplassen

Man-made nature below sea level

In the province of Flevoland, between Almere and Lelystad, you will find the largest man-made nature area in the world. The area was created by draining the Flevopolders and is therefore still relatively young. The original plan was to develop an industrial area, but there was no immediate need for it, so the marshland was sown with reeds and then left alone. Nature took over the new land and developed into man-made nature in a former inland sea. 

A glimpse of the sea eagle

Those who join a photo safari in the largest man-made nature reserve in the world might catch a glimpse of the rare sea eagle that has been breeding here again since 2006. Or perhaps of a resourceful fox capturing its prey in broad daylight. It is, in any case, an impressive journey through a marshland where thousands of birds reside and many large grazers keep the area in check. Experience how each season brings its own dynamics and surprising developments. 

Staring into the distance from a bird lookout point

During bird migration, tens of thousands of birds make a short or long stopover in the Oostvaardersplassen. To refuel or to raise a new generation. Observe their search for food from a distance, from one of the many lookout points.  

Don't miss anything? 

Put on your sturdy walking shoes and explore the Oostvaardersplassen on foot. Follow Wandelroute Zeearend (5 km) by Staatsbosbeheer and let it lead you through the Driehoek area to the observation hut De Zeearend. There, you have more than 2.5 km of unobstructed views over the lakes, and maybe you'll spot it, the flying barn door!

Prefer to cycle along marshes, willow and elder groves, and the stylish visitor center? You can! And this route (32 km) also promises a beautiful view. From the observation huts you pass, you can observe marsh birds and large grazers.