This area on the border between the provinces of Friesland and Drenthe that looks like a savanna, is actually one of the last raised bog areas in Western Europe. The cranes that live here add an exotic note. You may also catch sight of snakes and hen harriers.
Fochteloërveen was almost destroyed by peat mining. Fortunately, Natuurmonumenten, the organisation that preserves landscapes and cultural heritage in the Netherlands, purchased the area in 1938 and saved this beautiful raised bog from being burned as fuel.
One of the best ways to appreciate the unique features of the landscape is to view it from the spectacular De Zeven observation tower. Read more about the De Zeven observation tower here.
You can enter the reserve on foot or by bike from the car park in the village of Fochteloo. Beautiful wooden walkways have been laid over the wet ground. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
There is also a paved (wheelchair-accessible) hiking trail that leads to the former army camps of Oranje and Ybenheer. You can access the paved trail from Veenweg road near the village of Fochteloo where you can park your car.
