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Meinweg nature reserve at Roermond
© Petra Lenssen
Category:Explore the Dutch national parks

De Meinweg National Park

Central Limburg has a beautiful rolling landscape and in De Meinweg National Park, east of Roermond, you will be particularly amazed by the variety of its nature. De Meinweg has a so-called terraced landscape. That means there are three plateaus, the highest of which, the Beatrix Plateau, is 80 metres above Amsterdam Ordnance Datum. The unique hilly landscape was largely created by sediment deposited over the centuries by the Rhine and Meuse rivers, although earthquakes also contributed.

  • Discover the nature of Central Limburg.
  • Relax in the heathlands of De Meinweg.
  • Walk or cycle through this beautiful national park.
Address:
Meinweg 2
6075NA Herkenbosch
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Unique terraced landscape

Right across the terraced landscape, which is unique in the Netherlands, two stream valleys were formed. Between these two stream valleys you will find different types of forests, including deciduous and coniferous forests. In the deciduous forests, you will often find oak, beech and birch trees. De Meinweg also boasts extensive heathlands, especially in the higher parts of the area. The heather and heath form a beautiful purple carpet when in bloom. The park is also home to several mysterious fens and bogs. In and around these wetlands, you can come across plants such as peat moss, water lilies and blunt-leaved bog-moss. De Meinweg also has drifting sand areas where grasses and lichens thrive.

Along the stream valleys you will find plants such as marsh marigolds, reeds and marsh violets, which flourish on moist soil. The park is also home to some rare plant species, such as sundew (a carnivorous plant) and several orchid varieties. This diverse flora contributes to the ecological balance of the park and provides a home for a wide range of animal and insect species. Conservation and protection of these plant communities are of great importance to ensure the biodiversity of De Meinweg National Park.

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Animal kingdom of De Meinweg

In addition to special trees and plants, De Meinweg National Park is home to a wide range of animals . Red deer and roe deer are well represented in the park. Especially in the early morning or evening twilight, you can see them grazing in open fields or along forest edges. De Meinweg is also one of the two home bases of a population of wild boar. These omnivores roam the forest in search of food, and their presence is an important part of the ecosystem. Badgers and foxes can also be found in the park. Badgers build their sets in the ground, while foxes dig their dens in hills or among tree roots.

It’s also a paradise for birdwatchers, who will be able to spot various species of woodpeckers and birds such as nightjars, hawks and buzzards. The fens and marshes are home to amphibians, reptiles and insects.

Exploring the park

Hiking trail in national park de Meinweg in Limburg © Daan Kloeg
© Daan Kloeg Shutterstock

The Meinweg has a large network of footpaths, cycle paths and bridle paths, making it a perfect area for beautiful nature walks. But you can explore the area in various other ways as well: by (electric) bicycle or on horseback. If you are looking for an adrenaline kick? The park also offers challenging mountain bike trails. In other words, there is something for everyone in this area. Please make sure to stick to the designated trails.

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