Naardermeer and's-Graveland country estates

The Naardermeer is located in a nature reserve that is nationally and internationally protected. It is even the first area in the Netherlands to be protected and promoted by Natuurmonumenten. The wetland area, covered by swamp forests and marshy meadows interspersed with shallow pools, is home to many rare animals and plants. Among other things, the special swamp cartel leaf, marsh helleborine, green tuber orchid, peat scented grass and the sweet-smelling grass orgis grow and bloom in this area. About 75 forest and marsh birds find a quiet area to breed here. The great egret, crown duck, kingfisher and reed warbler are just a few examples of birds that find their food in and around the ponds. Other populations of animal species, amphibians and mammals, also thrive around the Naardermeer. Six species of meat mice flutter around as soon as dusk falls, but other small mammals such as moles, mice, hedgehogs, voles, rabbits and hares also scurry across the moist floor. Roe deer and foxes are no exception and hide among the dense vegetation, while more than 500 species of aquatic invertebrates (flatworms, bristle worms, crustaceans, water mites, water and surface bugs, dragonfly and mosquito larvae, water beetles and water snails) in the puddles provide a healthy water management. In the Gooi en Vechtstreek Visitor Center you can learn more about the Naardermeer, but also about the country estates in the Vechtstreek. The varied environment and all points of interest are beautifully presented using a large scale model. Gooi en Vechtstreek offers you a glimpse into the history of the landscape and teaches you about the current situation in a playful and contemporary way.