Province(s)
Status
Surface
Landscape
Grand and Unconventional Peat Bog
Weerribben-Wieden National Park is located in the "Kop van Overijssel" and, with over 12,000 hectares, forms the largest continuous peat bog area in Northwestern Europe. It is a magical labyrinth of ponds, lakes, ditches, extensive reed plots, flower-rich hay meadows, and mysteriously looking swamp forests. This unique habitat of the otter and the extremely rare large copper butterfly has been created by both humans and the power of nature. There is plenty to see and experience here throughout the year.
Mozaic of Cultural History and Landscapes
Every visit to Weerribben-Wieden National Park leaves an impression on you. The mosaic of cultural history and landscapes ensures this. From high to low, from dry to wet, from fresh to salt, from sand to clay and peat; nowhere else in the Netherlands are the transitions as clearly visible as here. Find wonder in the changing landscapes and their associated culture and customs. Will you join us on an exploration to get to know the area better?
Unique Crafts
For centuries, reed cutters, professional fishermen, and punter builders have been interwoven with this landscape. Reed cutters ensure that the water-rich areas of the Weerribben and Wieden remain open and that the reed culture persists. Professional fishermen contribute to maintaining a healthy fish population. Punter builders have been making wooden flatboats and punts for centuries in the unique sailing village of Giethoorn. These vessels are suitable for recreational and professional use in the nature areas of Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
Weren, ribs and wieden
The moraines formed in the penultimate ice age are still clearly recognizable in the higher parts of the national park. The heights in combination with the much lower, wet areas are characteristic of Weerribben-Wieden. The so-called weren were created by the digging of peat during peat cutting. The peat was laid out to dry on the remaining narrow strips; the ribs. Parts were washed away by the power of nature, causing areas to be submerged; the wieden. There is even a drowned village between Sint Jansklooster and Giethoorn.
The advance of the otter
The otter features in the emblem of the Weerribben-Wieden National Park. That is no coincidence. In 2002, the otter was reintroduced into the Dutch wilderness, specifically in the Weerribben. The strong advance of the otter in the Netherlands is a success story of the restoration of wetlands and water quality. Seeing an otter in the wild is a magical moment that you won't soon forget.
Highlights
Canoe through nature or sail to the drowned village
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