Wide views along the Lauwersmeer

This walking route takes you through the surroundings of the Groningen village of Lauwersoog. You walk a large part through National Park Lauwersmeer. This lake was once an estuary of the Wadden Sea. To minimize the risk of flooding, the estuary was closed off. This created a unique wilderness of water, forests, seas of orchids and rugged grasslands. More than a hundred bird species breed in this area. So bring waterproof footwear and binoculars.

Paradise for bird watchers

Especially in the spring and autumn, the Lauwersmeer is one big bird festival. Wherever you walk, everywhere around you you can see and hear many thousands of geese. Birdwatchers like to come here to spot avocets, spoonbills or gray phalarlegs. And of course the white-tailed eagle that has been breeding here for a number of years. At the edges of the lake it is wonderful to have a picnic. Or just enjoy the wide view.

In addition to water and grasslands, the route also takes you through the forests that lie on the edge of the national park. Species such as poplar, ash and alder grow here. You can see from the straight rows of trees that the forest has been planted. However, it is not boring here. The forest is allowed to become wild and overgrown, so that all kinds of animals and plants feel at home there. And of course walkers.