De Groote Peel National Park

De Groote Peel National Park is an internationally recognized wetlands area on the border of Limburg and North Brabant. In the past, this bog area has been important for the extraction of peat, but today it is a breeding ground for hundreds of species of marsh and water birds. Stroll along the ponds, marshes, heathlands and open spaces and enjoy this special piece of nature.

A bird paradise

Every year there are about 200 species of birds flying around in De Groote Peel National Park. The nature reserve is one of the most bird-rich areas of the Netherlands. You can spot bluethroats, stonechats, yellowhammers, nightjars, little grebes, water rails and many other beautiful birds in this area. The pride of De Groote Peel is the majestic crane that often stops over during the long migration in October and November.

The swamps of De Groote Peel are inhabited by many other animals, including deer, weasel, ermine, water vole, polecat and boar. Also for reptiles such as frogs and snakes, De Groote Peel is a great habitat. Finally, many butterflies, dragonflies and grasshoppers can be observed in the spring and summer.

Walking on the moor

De Groote Peel is and remains a wetland and that means a hiking trip is a special experience. The routes partly traverse log roads and log bridges, and sometimes you will be walking on springy peat soils.

The visitor center de Pelen offers excursions with a guide who takes you through the National Park and explains the natural and cultural history of De Groote Peel. You need to make reservations in advance and indicate whether children will be joining the tour.