Northern Netherlands, Province group in Netherlands.
The Northern Netherlands consists of three provinces: Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe, forming the country's northernmost section. They sit on the mainland and extend toward the North Sea, where several islands lie offshore.
These territories developed as separate administrative regions during the Middle Ages, each with its own traditions and structures. They were later incorporated as distinct units into the Dutch Republic while retaining much of their local character.
People in this region speak Frisian alongside Dutch, and you'll hear it in schools and daily conversations. This linguistic diversity shapes local identity and how communities connect with each other.
The region has good connections between the three provinces, and there are different ways to explore each one. Universities and research centers are scattered throughout the area and can serve as landmarks when getting around.
The Wadden Islands off the coast are a protected natural area with specific rules for visitors to safeguard the fragile environment. These islands are difficult to reach and show a completely different landscape from the mainland.
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