Flevoland

Flevoland: the youngest pearl of the Netherlands

Flevoland is the youngest province in the Netherlands and a fascinating example of successful land reclamation from water. Created in the 1950s and 1960s by draining part of the IJsselmeer, the region is a prime example of modern Dutch engineering. Flevoland offers a unique landscape of open fields, lakes and a multitude of canals, making it an ideal destination for water sports and sailing. The provincial capital, Lelystad, is known for its close ties to water and shipping and is home to the Batavia Shipyard Museum, where historic ships are recreated, including the impressive merchant ship 'Batavia'.

In contrast to Lelystad, the city of Almere offers a mix of modern architecture and urban lifestyle. Almere is one of the fastest growing cities in the country and attracts many families and young people. Visitors to Flevoland will also find the Oostvaardersplassen National Park, a large nature reserve that is home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna. Wild horses, deer and a wide variety of birds are particularly impressive, making the area a true paradise for nature photographers and hikers.

Flevoland's unique waterways, from the Markermeer to the IJsselmeer, are an ideal sailing area with well-equipped marinas and numerous water sports facilities. Easily accessible by car or train, and just a short drive from Amsterdam, the region is a popular destination for short breaks and weekend getaways. With its nature reserves, modern cities and water landscapes, Flevoland is a region that breaks the mould of the traditional Dutch landscape and offers travellers a completely new and refreshing image of the Netherlands.

Local Highlights and Attractions

Flevoland has many unique attractions. A definite highlight is Batavialand in Lelystad, a historical open-air museum with impressive replicas of historic ships, including the legendary merchant ship 'Batavia'. The city of Almere boasts modern architecture that contrasts with traditional Dutch building methods.

Nature lovers can explore the Oostvaardersplassen National Park, a wild and unspoilt landscape with extensive wetlands that are home to many animals, including wild horses and rare bird species.

In Urk, a former fishing village, visitors can get a glimpse of the region's maritime culture and history, exploring the charming harbour and historic buildings.

Special features and attractions of the sailing region

Flevoland is a paradise for sailors, with a variety of waterways such as the Markermeer and the IJsselmeer, all with excellent infrastructure. Thanks to the shallow, calm waters and easily accessible moorings, the waterways are ideal for both experienced sailors and beginners. With numerous marinas and moorings, the region is well equipped for sailing enthusiasts planning both short day trips and longer sailing holidays. Flevoland also offers many opportunities for other water sports, from canoeing and windsurfing to relaxing boat trips on the many canals.

Sailing routes and highlights

A popular sailing route in Flevoland is from Lelystad across the IJsselmeer to Hoorn or Enkhuizen, historic towns full of charm and maritime history. This route combines the best of nature and culture, while the Markermeer is calm enough for a relaxing cruise. Another interesting route is through the Ketelmeer, which is ideal for exploring the Flevoland coast. There are numerous islands and hidden coves where you can anchor and swim, while the surrounding landscape offers a charming panorama.

Activities ashore, such as restaurants and local culture

Flevoland also offers a wealth of activities and culture on land. The city of Almere has a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both modern cuisine and traditional Dutch dishes. Lelystad has a rich cultural scene and cosy restaurants, many of which serve regional specialities. For traditional Dutch cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, there are many small restaurants and markets along the canals and in the charming villages around the IJsselmeer.

Information on nature reserves and wildlife watching

The heart of Flevoland's natural beauty is the Oostvaardersplassen National Park. Here visitors will find exceptional flora and fauna with rare bird species, deer and wild horses. The nature reserve is considered one of the last places in the Netherlands where wild animals can live freely in their natural environment. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the animals in their natural environment on specially designed footpaths and viewing points, making this area a unique experience for nature and animal lovers.

Flevoland is a fascinating region full of contrasts, where nature, history and modern architecture blend harmoniously. The polder landscape, once covered by the sea and reclaimed from the land by one of the largest drainage projects in the world, tells the story of an impressive technical triumph. Today, the open fields, waterways and charming villages are a symbol of the Dutch ability to innovate in the face of nature's challenges.

For sailors, Flevoland offers not only numerous routes on the calm waters of the IJsselmeer and Markermeer, but also well-developed marinas and moorings. The region appeals to both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts who not only want to enjoy the surroundings from the water, but also explore the unique culture and history on land. Whether it's a visit to the maritime theme park Batavialand or a stroll through the historic city of Urk, Flevoland offers endless new discoveries.

The region is also ideal for nature lovers. The Oostvaardersplassen National Park, a species-rich wilderness, offers the opportunity to observe wild animals such as deer and rare bird species in their natural habitat. The culinary scene and cultural offerings, especially in cities like Almere and Lelystad, complete the experience and make Flevoland a unique destination that manages to honour its past while looking to the future.