Walking under the stars
Or are you afraid of the dark?
Above you, the stars twinkle like never before. You can’t see a thing, and yet… you seem to see even more. Experience Lauwersmeer Dark Sky Park under the guidance of the public observatory or the forest ranger, or simply set off on your own. These walking routes offer a glimpse into the darkness around Lauwersmeer.
The darkest cycle path in the Netherlands
Walking along the pitch-black cycle path in the Kollumerwaard, you can see the lights of Zoutkamp, the gas flare at Grijpskerk and, to the south-east, the glow of the city of Groningen. The cycle path starts at the car park on Kwelderweg and leads to Hooge Zuidwal. And then back again.
Dancing harbour lights at Lauwersoog
The lights on the boats, the lamps on the shore and at the lock, and Schiermonnikoog in the distance: the illuminated harbour of Lauwersoog is a fantastic night-time backdrop. Park at the Hoek van Bant and walk through the deserted harbour, with the gently lapping black water to your left and right.
Ballastplaatbos in the dark
‘I’m not afraid of the wild animals, I’m not afraid, I’m not afraid. That’s great; the darkness of the Ballastplaatbos north of the Suyderoogh bungalow park welcomes you. Sometimes you pass dark water, sometimes you see lights in the distance. Exciting, especially when there’s a bit of a breeze!
Zoutkamperril
From the Strandweg, running alongside the Zoutkamperril, you have a magnificent view of the illuminated industrial estate at the fishing harbour after dark. If you turn round, you can see the Willem Lodewijk van Nassau Barracks and the Vierhuizen windmill.
Ezumazijl Circuit
You can also enjoy wonderful walks on the Frisian side of the Lauwersmeer. Park at the Ezumakeeg Noord viewpoint and take a stroll through the grasslands and along the dark waters. In the distance, you can see the lights and the gas flare at Oostmahorn.
Nije Faert near Esonstad
Are you spending your holiday in Esonstad near Oostmahorn? Then you won’t have to go far for a walk in the dark. A stroll along the Nije Faert near Esonstad will let you experience just how dark the water is at night. Walk along the dyke or down by the beach.
For an overview of activities, do take a look at np-lauwersmeer.nl.
