Dark sky
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Lounging
From space, it was crystal clear: we have the cleanest air. So it’s no surprise that the night feels just as pure — no filter needed.
And in that night, something truly special happens. Where you might first think you see less, all your senses begin to awaken — leading to an almost otherworldly experience. You can simply find a spot beneath the stars. On the mudflats, on the dike, in the forest, or in the middle of a field. Of course, we’ll share our favorite spots with you. Did you know, for instance, that Lauwersmeer National Park is officially designated as a Dark Sky Park? Pick your own Milky Way and create your own journey — it’s absolutely worth an hour less sleep.
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Dark Sky park Lauwersmeer
Dark Sky park Lauwersmeer
In 2016, Lauwersmeer National Park was officially designated as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).
A Dark Sky Park is an area where natural darkness is preserved, where efforts are made to protect the night environment, and where visitors are welcome to experience that darkness and admire the starry sky. With Lauwersmeer added to the list, the IDA now recognizes 44 nature parks and reserves worldwide as official Dark Sky locations — about half of them located in the United States. Lauwersmeer is the second Dark Sky Park in the Netherlands. The first was the Boschplaat on Terschelling, which received the designation in 2015.
Whether you're in the mood to gaze at the stars, join a ranger-led night expedition, or head out for a nighttime walk, Dark Sky Park Lauwersmeer is the place to be!
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Boating at night
If there's one place where leaving the beaten path leads to true surprise, it's De Alde Feanen.
From the main waterways and lakes, you can turn off into narrow canals and peat holes — and suddenly, a whole different world opens up.And if you venture out at night, you'll experience the area in a completely new way — immersed in darkness. It's surprising just how much you can see! The creatures of the night are definitely worth it too — you’ll hear them moving around, while they keep a sharp eye on you.
Night sailing is a magical way to discover this world. Step aboard, and the skipper will occasionally break the silence to point out one of these nocturnal residents — or to share a (true!) tale from the region. A thrilling experience!
You can go night sailing in De Alde Feanen National Park (until October 1st) with:
- Alde Feanen verhuur in Earnewâld
- Hotel Princenhof in collaboration with De Wartenster also in Earnewâld
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magnifying glass
magnifying glass
Dark Sky means… stargazing!
And there’s no better place for it than the Observeum in Burgum.
Every Friday, the observatory guides will help you see the universe through new eyes — using powerful telescopes to explore the night sky. But be warned: once you’ve had a taste, you’ll want more!
Step into the space capsule and dive into the planetarium experience. Even on cloudy nights, you can enjoy live stargazing indoors — and learn everything there is to know about the stars above.
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No-slumber party
No-slumber party
October 30th is the Night of the Night. Make sure you’re well rested to fully enjoy everything planned for you!
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Lauwersmeer Night Map
Lauwersmeer Night Map
Your best navigation for the night! Featuring the top spots in the park.
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dark activities
dark activities
Head out with a photographer who’ll teach you the tricks of night photography, or join a ranger who shows you the wonders of the dark — our calendar is packed with special activities!