Aekingerzand, Nature area in Drents-Friese Wold National Park, Netherlands
Aekingerzand is a nature area spanning Friesland and Drenthe, featuring extensive sand drifts, rolling sand plains, and pine forests throughout its landscape. The terrain is mostly sand with varying elevation changes that create an open, windswept environment.
The landscape was shaped by people who planted forests over the centuries and later reversed that work. Extensive restoration efforts removed cultivated trees to allow natural sand movements to resume across the terrain.
The site represents the preservation of Dutch natural heritage through active management by Staatsbosbeheer, the national forestry service.
The area has multiple walking routes of varying length through heath and forest suitable for different fitness levels. Spring through autumn offers the best conditions when trails are dry and easier to navigate.
The restored landscape supports sand lizards and rare butterfly species that depend on open sand areas to survive. These animals are adapted to conditions found in only a few places across the Netherlands.
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