Groene Hart and Nieuwkoopse Plassen

The Landscape

In the heart of the Netherlands lies the National Landscape Groene Hart, a surprisingly green and open area nestled between the major cities. Here, you'll find sparkling lakes, swaying reed beds, vast meadows, and historic fortified towns. The landscape has been shaped over centuries by land reclamation and water management, and this history is still visible in the unique patterns of fields and waterways. The lake region near Utrecht is especially striking, with its long, narrow plots, a quiet reminder of medieval peat reclamation around the year 1000. These distinctive ribbon-like fields contrast with the block-shaped plots and straight lines of the polders found in other parts of the Groene Hart.

The Nieuwkoopse Plassen is one of the most beautiful and valuable peat bogs in the Groene Hart. Originally formed by peat extraction and the sinking of the peat soil, this unique landscape has largely been preserved, unlike many other lakes that were later drained. Today, it’s a tranquil, water-rich nature reserve, with reed beds, waterfowl, and winding rivers. A true paradise for walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and nature lovers!