Drents-Friese Wold National Park, Protected forest landscape in Drenthe and Friesland, Netherlands
Drents-Friese Wold National Park is a large protected area straddling the border between Drenthe and Friesland, featuring dense forests, purple-flowering heathlands, and shifting sandscapes. The landscape brings together different habitats, including river valley grasslands, that create a rich patchwork of natural environments.
The area received national park status in 2000, protecting significant natural habitats that had faced pressure from various land uses. This designation marked an important commitment to preserving the diverse ecosystems and landscapes of this border region.
Ancient stone burial mounds from the Neolithic era dot the landscape around the park, showing how people lived in this region thousands of years ago. Walking through these areas gives you a direct connection to the distant past of this land.
The park has several entry points with parking and visitor information centers to help you plan your visit. Well-maintained trails accommodate walking, cycling, and horseback riding, with routes of different lengths and difficulty levels to suit various preferences.
The Aekingerzand area holds one of the largest active sand drifts in the Netherlands, constantly reshaped by wind forces. This living landscape demonstrates how natural forces work to transform the terrain, creating ever-changing shapes and patterns.
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