National Park De Alde Feanen

The Alde Feanen: Born from Peat

The heart of Friesland bears the marks of extensive peat extraction for fuel. But this activity had beautiful consequences: it led to the creation of De Alde Feanen (The Old Bogs). You can read the landscape biography of De Alde Feanen here. Since 2006, this natural area has been a National Park.

Narrow canals, secluded moorland pools, open lakes: water is present in all its possible varieties in this area. One moment you have a panoramic view over vast grasslands and waving reed beds, the next you feel sheltered by fairytale-like swamp forests. Here, you can enjoy endless water sports, as well as hiking and cycling through diverse landscapes. Cross the National Park by bike via the Pontjesroute (Ferry Route) or participate in one of the many sporting activities with a group.

This enormous variety of landscapes results in rich biodiversity. De Alde Feanen boasts over 450 different plant species and is a breeding ground for more than a hundred bird species. Roe deer, foxes, pine martens, and otters also feel right at home here.

De Alde Feanen National Park is located in the middle of Friesland, between Leeuwarden, Drachten, and Heerenveen. It's an ideal location for exploring all of Friesland. Surrounding villages near the park include Earnewâld, Warten, Wergea, Grou, De Veenhoop, Oudega (Sm.), and Goëngahuizen. To learn more about the park and its activities, visit www.np-aldefeanen.nl.