Lauwersoog, Engwierum and Zoutkamp

The Dutch have been battling the rising tide for centuries. Dikes, gullies, canals, denominations and lakes are no exception in the flat Dutch landscape. One of those lakes was created in May 1969 when the Lauwerszee was closed: the Lauwersmeer, which is located on the border of Groningen and Friesland. Lauwersmeer National Park is a vast landscape, home to many different, sometimes rare animals and plants. Many birds come to rest on and around the water, from geese, ducks and bearded ducks to meadow birds that build their nests further inland. Because nature often goes its own way in Lauwersmeer National Park, trees and shrubs roughen the landscape. The area gradually becomes dense and a swamp-like forest is created. The growth of this forest is at the expense of various animal species, so the area is mowed and felled annually. It may happen that you suddenly come face to face with Scottish highlanders or Konik horses, they graze freely in the landscape.