SP - 66 - 75 - 46 - 71 - 78 - 44 - 63 - ? - 31 - 72 - 43 - 65 - 35 - 55 - 44 - 78 - 71 - 75 - 66 - 52

This beautiful and very varied route is a lovely walk for young and old. Do make sure to wear waterproof shoes or boots, as it can get quite wet here, especially in autumn and winter. After all, you are in the largest marsh area of Friesland!

From birds to fish

Right at the start of the route, you find yourself in the habitat of the stork. Here, several pairs of storks breed in spring and summer. These majestic birds are easily seen and heard. Especially the clattering, with which they greet their partner, is a distinctive sound.

From the parking lot, go through the little gate and follow the arrows towards junction 75. Before long, you'll be walking in the shelter of the marsh forest and past several peat holes. These rectangular holes were created by peat extraction in the past. Now, these water bodies provide a habitat for dozens of species of plants and animals. Grey geese can almost always be seen here. And take a look from one of the little bridges into the clear water. With some luck and patience, you might see the fish swimming by.

Birdwatching huts

Also, don't forget your binoculars! From the birdwatching huts along the route, you can spot various bird species, depending on the season! In winter, for example, you can see different species of ducks and geese. The lookout tower halfway through the area offers a beautiful view over the landscape. In spring, it's recommended to stop and listen occasionally. Who knows, you might hear the 'hoomp' of the bittern. The bird is rarely seen, but has a distinctive call that sounds like a foghorn.

Mindfulness route

Especially for the National Park De Alde Feanen, a Mindfulness Route has been developed that runs through It Wikelslân! Mindfulness is about experiencing the here and now, and this walk invites you to slow down your breathing, open your senses, and focus your attention entirely on the moment. The sound of the reed plumes rustling softly, the smell of wet earth and grass, the refreshing breeze on your skin – these are all sensory experiences that help you calm your thoughts and soothe your mind.

The accompanying book can be borrowed for free and is available at the Information Point NP De Alde Feanen, Wiidswei 32 in Earnewald or at the Tourist Office, Piet Miedemaweg 9 in Earnewâld. Please note that the Information Point will be open again from April. You can find the opening hours of the Earnewâld Tourist Office here and the opening hours of Information Point NP De Alde Feanen here. If you would still like to walk the Mindfulness Route, you can reserve the book by calling T: 0511-539618.

Want to know more about the Alde Feanen?

More information about this nature area can be found here.