If you have ever wanted to explore a place that didn’t even exist a few years ago, then Marker Wadden belongs on your travel list. Located in the Markermeer near Lelystad, this extraordinary man-made archipelago is a groundbreaking project focused on restoring Dutch ecosystems. Built entirely from sand, silt, and clay, it is both an ecological triumph and a beautiful destination for nature lovers.
As part of Nieuw Land National Park, Marker Wadden is home to peaceful beaches, marshy wetlands, and a network of scenic walking trails. From the moment you arrive by ferry, you’ll find yourself surrounded by panoramic lake views, whispering grasses, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Climb the tall wooden watchtower for sweeping views over the lake, then follow winding paths past shallow ponds, quiet island houses, and thriving birdwatching towers where you might spot a kingfisher, common tern, or even a European beaver.
What makes this place truly special is its origin story. Created by Dutch organizations like Natuurmonumenten, Rijkswaterstaat, and Boskalis, Marker Wadden is one of the largest ecosystem restoration projects in Western Europe. It was designed to improve water quality, rebuild biodiversity, and provide new breeding grounds for birds and aquatic life. This is what the Dutch call building with nature, using natural elements to solve environmental challenges rather than fighting against them.
The islands are free from cars, concrete, and crowds. What you will find instead are soft dunes, rich bird habitats, and the quiet rhythm of wind and water. It is the perfect day trip for anyone looking to experience the Dutch countryside in a different and refreshing way.
If you are exploring the Netherlands and want a cozy place to stay, consider booking a vacation home at Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest. This small-scale, family-run park sits in a central location, making it easy to reach not only Marker Wadden, but also cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Arnhem. It offers a peaceful retreat after a day out in nature.
Hidden Corners, Photo Spots, and Quiet Magic on Marker Wadden
While the open skies and peaceful shores of Marker Wadden immediately grab your attention, it’s the quiet corners and thoughtful details that truly make this place feel special. Once you arrive by ferry from Lelystad Harbour, take your time to wander slowly. Marker Wadden was designed to be discovered with patience, inviting you to enjoy both its natural beauty and its clever ecological design.
Follow the Trails to Untouched Beauty
The main hiking trail loops through low dunes, across wooden bridges, and past quiet shallow ponds teeming with life. Along the way, keep your eyes open for rare water birds, reeds swaying in the breeze, and mudflats that seem to shift with the light. If you’re into photography, this trail is a dream. Early morning and late afternoon are especially magical, with soft light dancing across the water.
One of the best views can be found at the top of the watchtower, a wooden structure that rises above the landscape. From here, you’ll see the full scale of the artificial archipelago, stretching out like a necklace across the Markermeer. The calm, mirror-like water below is often dotted with migratory birds resting between long journeys.
Birdwatching for Beginners and Pros
Marker Wadden is part of the Natura 2000 network and has quickly become a hotspot for birdwatching. Whether you are a seasoned birder or just starting out, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Look for species like the common tern, oystercatcher, kingfisher, and even the elusive European otter if you are lucky. Quiet bird hides are scattered along the trail, offering a perfect spot to sit and watch without disturbing the wildlife.
Bring binoculars if you have them, but if not, the birds often come close enough to enjoy with the naked eye. Some visitors also enjoy sketching the birds or simply relaxing in silence, surrounded by the sound of rustling reeds and distant calls.
Simplicity in Every Detail
There are no flashy attractions or large visitor centers on the island. That is entirely intentional. What you will find instead are clean composting toilets, picnic tables made from local wood, and signs that explain the story of the island’s creation and its importance to the Dutch water management system. These signs are informative without being overwhelming, and they make it easy to understand how Marker Wadden fits into the broader picture of Dutch landscape architecture and climate progress.
If you plan to bring snacks or lunch, there are several scenic spots where you can stop and eat by the water. The harbor area also has a small visitor shelter and sometimes hosts guided tours or educational activities organized by Natuurmonumenten.
A Calm Retreat Within Easy Reach
What makes Marker Wadden so special is its peaceful atmosphere. Even during summer weekends, the islands never feel crowded. Most people come here to unwind, observe, and connect with nature. It feels far away from busy cities, even though Amsterdam and Soest are both less than two hours away.
If you are staying at Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest, it’s an easy day trip. Pack a backpack, hop on a morning train or drive to Lelystad, and return in the evening with salt in your hair and the scent of wet grass still fresh in your mind. Marker Wadden is not just a destination, it’s a peaceful memory in the making.
