Nature

Once upon a time the inhabitants of Schokland fought against the forces of nature. That very same nature is still evident today on this former island.

Even from a distance you can see it in the trees which stand in a circle around the island, on the boundary between land and water. Schokland literally juts out of the polder landscape. But you also see it in the use of the land; with, of course, its grasslands and meadows with ‘old’ crops such as rapeseed and rye and lushly growing plants such as the opium poppy and lucerne. This island on dry land is a striking feature in the pattern of straight lines in the polder.

Protecting the natural treasures

Following the reclamation of the Noordoostpolder, Schokland quickly began to subside. In order to preserve the island, trees and shrubs were planted around the former coastline. Wet grasslands were also laid out to protect the many archaeological treasures.

Plants and animals

More and more animals, trees and plants are making their home in the Schokkerbos and the wet grasslands of Schokland. You can see hares, rabbits, roe deer, pine martens, swallows, and harriers, and also Lakenvelder cows and plants such as ferns and mosses. Ground-nesting birds and water fowl such as the spoonbill, white egret, kingfisher, redshank, wading bird, lapwing and skylark also love it here. As do frogs, toads and even the endangered natterjack toad.

Walk and cycle around Schokland

Schokland has a rich cultural and natural history and is attractive for young and old. Go on a cycling or walking tour around the former island and visit Museum Schokland. Let the children go on an exciting treasure hunt or dig for treasure in De Gesteentetuin (boulder garden). Go on a trip organised by Flevo-Landschap or Toerisme Schokland.

And there is even more to do and discover. Go and look for the secrets of Schokland yourself!