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Hoge Veluwe National Park
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About Netherlands National Park National Parks

The Netherlands, although a small and densely populated country, boasts a number of national parks that showcase its diverse natural landscapes and habitats. The national parks of the Netherlands are characterized by a variety of ecosystems, including coastal dunes, wetlands, forests, and heathlands.

These protected areas provide important habitats for wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and insects. Among the most well-known national parks in the Netherlands are De Hoge Veluwe National Park, located in the central part of the country, known for its vast sand dunes, woodlands, and heathlands, and De Biesbosch National Park, situated in the southern part, famous for its freshwater tidal wetlands and network of rivers and creeks.

These national parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature conservation, and environmental education, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and biodiversity of the Dutch countryside.

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Netherlands National Park's National Parks

Dunes of Texel National Park inland waters

Dunes of Texel National Park

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Hoge Veluwe National Park red deers

Hoge Veluwe National Park

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Veluwezoom National Park

Veluwezoom National Park

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FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are there in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has 21 national parks. These protected areas showcase the country’s diverse natural landscapes, ranging from coastal dunes and wetlands to woodlands and heathlands.

Despite being a small and densely populated country, the Netherlands prioritizes conservation efforts, and the national parks play a crucial role in preserving the country’s biodiversity and natural heritage.

These parks provide important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature-based tourism, and environmental education. The national parks also contribute to ecosystem services, such as water purification, flood protection, and carbon sequestration.

Through sustainable management practices and public engagement, the Netherlands aims to ensure the long-term conservation of its natural landscapes and promote the enjoyment and appreciation of nature for generations to come.

2. What is the largest national park in the Netherlands?

The largest national park in the Netherlands is De Hoge Veluwe National Park (Nationaal Park De Hoge Veluwe). It covers an area of approximately 55 square kilometers (about 21 square miles) and is located in the central part of the country, primarily in the province of Gelderland.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including vast sand dunes, dense woodlands, heathlands, and grassy plains. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, wild boar, foxes, and various bird species.

The park is managed by the Hoge Veluwe National Park Foundation and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, cycling, wildlife watching, and cultural experiences, such as visits to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and sculpture.

3. What is the smallest national park in the Netherlands?

The smallest national park in the Netherlands is the Schiermonnikoog National Park (Nationaal Park Schiermonnikoog). It covers an area of approximately 54 square kilometers (about 21 square miles) and is located on the island of Schiermonnikoog in the province of Friesland.

Schiermonnikoog National Park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including sandy beaches, dunes, tidal flats, salt marshes, and woodlands. It is home to various bird species, including migratory birds, as well as seals and other marine life.

Despite its small size, the national park is internationally recognized as an important area for wildlife conservation and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadden Sea, which is one of the largest tidal systems in the world.

Schiermonnikoog National Park offers visitors opportunities for nature-based recreation, birdwatching, and relaxation in a pristine coastal environment.

4. What was the first national park in the Netherlands?

The first national park established in the Netherlands was Veluwezoom National Park (Nationaal Park Veluwezoom). It was designated as a national park on January 25, 1930. Veluwezoom National Park is situated in the eastern part of the Netherlands, primarily in the province of Gelderland.

The park encompasses a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, heathlands, and sand drifts. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including red deer, wild boar, foxes, and a wide range of birdlife.

Veluwezoom National Park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, cycling, and nature observation, with numerous trails and viewpoints providing access to the park’s scenic beauty.

As the first national park in the Netherlands, Veluwezoom paved the way for the conservation and protection of natural areas across the country.