The park is a crucial habitat for numerous bird species, with over 200 species recorded, including rare breeding birds like the Black-tailed Godwit and Common Crane. It serves as an important stopover for migratory birds such as geese and cranes. The wetland environment supports various amphibians, including the European tree frog and common spadefoot toad. Mammals such as roe deer, foxes, and various bat species inhabit the park, while numerous invertebrates, including dragonflies and butterflies, contribute to its rich biodiversity.
De Groote Peel hosts a diverse array of plant species adapted to its acidic, nutrient-poor conditions. Key species include sundews (Drosera), which are carnivorous plants that trap insects, various species of peat moss (Sphagnum), and distinctive cotton grass (Eriophorum). The park also features rare orchids, heather species including Calluna vulgaris, and birch woodlands on higher ground. This vegetation mosaic creates distinct habitat zones that support the park's remarkable biodiversity and contribute to its status as a wetland of international importance.
The park's distinctive landscape was formed over thousands of years through the accumulation of partially decomposed plant material in waterlogged conditions, creating extensive peat bogs. This high-moor peat landscape sits atop Pleistocene sand deposits, reaching depths of up to several meters in some areas. The interaction between acidic peat soils and groundwater has created a unique hydrogeological system that supports the park's rare ecosystem. Human peat extraction has left a complex network of channels, pools, and raised areas that characterize the current landscape.
De Groote Peel's human history spans thousands of years, with peat extraction being the primary historical activity from medieval times until the early 20th century. Local communities harvested peat for fuel, creating a distinctive landscape of channels and pools. The area was designated as a national park in 1993 and received recognition as a Natura 2000 site for its ecological significance. During World War II, the park's remote location and difficult terrain made it a crucial hiding place for resistance fighters and downed Allied pilots, adding another layer to its rich historical narrative.
De Groote Peel's most distinctive features include its extensive network of boardwalks allowing visitors to explore the peat bog safely, the Visitor Center 'Mijl op Zeven' offering interactive exhibitions about the park's ecology and history, and several observation towers providing panoramic views across the landscape. The park's unique combination of open water, peat bogs, and heathland creates a striking visual contrast throughout the seasons. The preserved peat-cutting history is evident in the landscape patterns, making it an outdoor museum of both natural and cultural heritage.
De Groote Peel experiences a temperate maritime climate typical of the Netherlands, with mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 2°C in winter to 17°C in summer, with significant rainfall throughout the year averaging 800mm annually. The park's unique microclimate, created by its peat bogs and open landscapes, can result in morning mists and higher humidity levels than surrounding areas. Visitors should be prepared for changeable weather conditions and are advised to visit during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for optimal hiking conditions and wildlife viewing.
The Netherlands
51.3500°, 5.8170°
1993
13.4
De Groote Peel is a raised bog and heathland area that spans two provinces. The park is an important bird sanctuary and features unique peat landscapes. It's known for its extensive network of walking trails and rich bird life.