Horsterwold, Nature area in Flevoland, Netherlands.
Horsterwold is a 900-hectare nature area in Flevoland with meadows, waterways, and dense forests forming the largest deciduous woodland on clay soil in Western Europe. The landscape combines open grasslands with thickly wooded sections, creating a mosaic of different natural environments.
The area was created through major land reclamation works in the 20th century that transformed the former Zuiderzee seabed into dry land. Over time, vegetation naturally established itself and evolved into this woodland and grassland landscape.
Bird watchers can observe more than 100 bird species in their natural habitat throughout the year. The scattered observation points make it easy to watch these animals without disturbing them.
A network of cycling and hiking trails runs through the area, including the 5.5-kilometer Silent Core Route that penetrates deep into the woodland. The paths remain accessible year-round, making visits possible in any season.
A herd of Konik horses roams freely across the entire forest, naturally maintaining the grassland areas through their grazing. These semi-wild horses are part of the ecological management system and shape the landscape as they move.
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