The National Parks of the Benelux

When planning a visit to Europe, it is easy to become focused on a few major highlights: the cuisine, the nightlife, the art, etc. However, each European country also boasts vast acres of incredible natural scenery—within its protected parks in particular.

While the phrase “national park” is most often associated with the United States, European countries are filled with them as well. Throughout Europe, you will find a breathtaking array of natural parks and nature reserves. And while they may be covered in a layer of ice and snow right now, come spring and summer, they will be magically transformed into a verdant paradise.

In particular, Holland and its neighbors (the “Benelux countries”) are home to 20 such national parks. Together, they are known as the National Parks of the Benelux. In a region famous for its manicured gardens and a fascination with flowers, it should come as no surprise that there are awe-inspiring parks here. Friesland, Gelderland, Utrecht, Seeland and the Northern Brabant feature countless acres of impressive wilderness. From lush woodlands and moors to sparse, sandy terrain, the landscapes here are incredibly varied.

The largest park in Holland is the Haute Veluwe Natural Park. Here you may wander about heather-filled moors, romantic dunes and forests home to many species of birds, wild sheep, boar and deer. Another beautiful destination is the Haute Fagnes Nature Park in Belgium; it is filled with lovely fenlands, rolling hills and peat bogs. These elements provide an amazing backdrop to castles like Annevoie Freyr and Hex, the Royal Palace in Laeken, and the National Botanic Garden (home to more than 10,000 plant species!)

If you love to hike or camp, you should also consider paying a visit to the Upper Sûre Natural Park that connects Belgium and Luxembourg. The two countries share this magnificent wonderland in the Luxembourg Ardennes—and for good reason. The destination offers a varied landscape and themed excursions based on local legends.

For more information on Europe’s protected areas, check out the Europarc Federation or the PAN Parks network. And to book the best hotels in the Netherlands, look no further than Eurobookings.com!