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Oostvaardersplassen
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wildlife
The Oostvaardersplassen is a unique nature reserve located in the province of Flevoland, situated on land reclaimed from the sea in the 1960s. Originally intended for industrial use, the area was left untouched and quickly developed into a vast wetland that attracted thousands of water birds. The reserve is often described as a 'new wilderness' and is famous for its large-scale rewilding experiment involving Heck cattle, Konik horses, and red deer. These large herbivores are used to keep the vegetation open, mimicking the conditions of prehistoric European landscapes. The area is a vital habitat for the white-tailed eagle, which began breeding here in 2006 for the first time in the Netherlands in over a century. However, the management of the animal populations has been a subject of significant public debate, leading to changes in the park's ecological strategies.
- Location: Flevoland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Kotterbos · Grote Praambult
- Nearby: Lelystad (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 63 | 54 | 39 | 59 | 64 | 81 | 85 | 64 | 71 | 70 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time for observing red deer, Heck cattle and Konik horses is spring and autumn, when animals are clearly visible on open grounds. In winter, herds are often more clustered.
Best time of day
Dawn and dusk are handy, as the ungulates are most actively grazing then. Avoid midday when animals usually rest and are harder to find.
Etiquette
Keep a distance of at least 100 meters from the large ungulates, as they can be unpredictable. Dogs must be kept on leash throughout the reserve to avoid disturbing the animals.
What to bring
A good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope is essential as animals are often far away. Waterproof clothing and rubber boots are recommended as the terrain is wet especially in winter.
Getting there
Oostvaardersplassen is accessible by car via the A6 highway; there are several viewing platforms and walking trails. Entry is free, although some paths may be closed during high water.
What to expect
Animals can move widely across the reserve; patience and persistence in scanning the area with binoculars are key. Often it is worth staying at a viewpoint for an hour.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve is located on the polder of South Flevoland, created in 1968.
- The core area of the reserve covers approximately 56 square kilometers.
- White-tailed eagles have been breeding in the park annually since 2006.
- The Heck cattle were bred to resemble the extinct wild aurochs.
- Around 30,000 pairs of greylag geese use the area for molting each year.
- The area is divided into a wet marshland and a dry grassland section.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Oostvaardersplassen (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Oostvaardersplassen?
It is a vast marsh and grassland area created entirely on reclaimed land.
What animals live there?
Famous for Konik horses, Heck cattle, red deer, and rare birds like the white-tailed eagle.
Is access to the core area allowed?
No, the core area is a sanctuary for animals; however, there are observation points at the edge.
Are there guided safaris?
The forestry service gives tours by wagon or off-road vehicle.
Which movie made the area famous?
The documentary 'De Nieuwe Wildernis' impressively showcases the nature of this area.
Oostvaardersplassen: where is it located?
Oostvaardersplassen is located in Flevoland, Netherlands.
Oostvaardersplassen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kotterbos, Grote Praambult.
Oostvaardersplassen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Oostvaardersplassen: why is it worth visiting?
The Oostvaardersplassen is a unique nature reserve located in the province of Flevoland, situated on land reclaimed from the sea in the 1960s.
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