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Surface
Landscape
A bird paradise on former sea bed
This special area, on the border of Groningen and Friesland, offers space for nature and for you. Space for reflection, to relax and to choose your own path. Marvel at endless vistas, meet grazing Konik horses and Scottish Highlanders, or experience the magic of darkness and take a walk under the starry sky. But what it's really about in and around the Lauwersmeer are the countless birds. In the wilderness of water and islets, over 100 bird species breed and tens of thousands of geese overwinter each year. It is therefore a paradise for bird lovers and any nature lover.
An Eldorado for Birds and Birdwatchers
From barn swallow to marsh harrier and from ruff to sea eagle, in Lauwersmeer National Park you can see birds coming and going all year round. Migratory birds settle here during their long journeys from north to south or vice versa. The vast area serves as a rest stop and refueling station. Birds that overwinter also find their food, rest, and space here. The national park not only caters to birds but also to birdwatchers. In the fantastic bird hides and observation towers, you have the best view and the greatest chance to admire special bird species at your leisure.
Experience the bird migration
At the boundary between water and land, many migratory birds can find food. Precisely along this watery boundary of water and land lie the six national parks: Lauwersmeer, Dunes of Texel, De Biesbosch, Schiermonnikoog, Nieuw Land, and Oosterschelde. At these iconic locations in Dutch nature, many of these birds can be seen during migration. Together, the areas tell the story of bird migration, with each area focusing on its own iconic species. Discover below where and when to spot the birds.
From Sea to Freshwater Area
The shells on the walking paths reveal that Lauwersmeer National Park has not always looked like this. It was once an inland sea. This Lauwers Sea was completely closed off in May 1969 to protect the Netherlands from high water and flooding. Today, we still reap the benefits of this. Just like the decision to let nature take its course here. It remains unique; you walk and cycle over the bottom of a former sea.
Step into the darkness
Dare you to wander in the night? In Dark Sky Park Lauwersmeer, you are welcome to explore not only during the day but also at night. Far away from artificial light sources, it is so dark here that your senses are heightened, allowing you to see everything. Step into the darkness and experience it for yourself. While stars twinkle high above your head, nocturnal animals rustle in the grass before, behind, and beside you. They emerge from their hiding places because they feel safe or are on the hunt. Some plant species are even dependent on nocturnal animals like the moth. More than 1000 species of them have already been observed.
Plenty of Water Fun
A large part of Lauwersmeer National Park consists of water. This means plenty of space for nature, but also for entertainment. On a warm summer day, take a dive into the wonderful, fresh waters of the Lauwersmeer and enjoy your well-deserved rest on one of the recreational beaches around Lauwersoog. Or cast your fishing rod at one of the fishing spots along the shore and see if the bream, roach, and ide are in the mood to bite. You probably will be at the end of the day! Appropriately finish it off with some delicious fresh fish at one of the fish restaurants in the harbor.
Highlights
Take a night walk with the ranger or spot rare birds
Do you want to visit the park?
Activity Center Lauwersnest
De Rug 1, 9976 VT Lauwersoog
Personal story
Irene Japenga loves spring with blooming orchids and the mushrooms in the fall.
Do you want to learn more about Lauwersmeer National Park?
Discover all the current information on the park's website. From the activity calendar and walking routes to contact details and more.