Oostvaarderplassen, the nature reserve in province Flevoland

The nature reserve Oostvaarderplassen (known as OVP) is located in the Dutch province Flevoland, in a polder created in 1968. In order to prevent the area of becoming a woodland (which would lower the habitat value for water birds), a number of large herbivores were brought in (red deer and Konik ponies, small size horses).

Nowadays the area is a favourite place for people who would like to enjoy a piece of nature north of Amsterdam. One may spot plenty of different birds and water birds, next to them several horses, deers and hairy cows live also here. The are where the large herbivores are living is closed for the public, but several parts are open for walk. I had the chance o admire some colourful butterflies, awesome bird concert, very friendly horses.

There are two visitors centers. One is located at the north entrance of the park, close to Lelystad - "Bezoekerzentrum Oostvaarderplassen". The second one is called "Natuurbelevingszentrum de Oostvaarders" and is not far from Almere station.