Top 13 Lakes around Leeuwarden
Best lakes around Leeuwarden are found within the water-rich Friesland province, with the city serving as a gateway to diverse natural areas. Leeuwarden itself features extensive urban canals, offering unique water recreation opportunities. The surrounding region is characterized by numerous lakes, fens, and wetland national parks, making it a significant destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. These areas provide a variety of trails and routes around lakes near Leeuwarden for hiking and cycling.
Best lakes around Leeuwarden
- The most popular lakes is De Alde Feanen National Park, a other_natural area that forms a diverse wetland with lakes, fens, quaking meadows, swamp forests, and peatlands. This national park is the largest contiguous natural area in the mainland part of Friesland, spanning approximately 4,000 hectares.
- Another must-see spot is Cycle Path Along the Sneekermeer, a cycle_way. This wide cycle path runs through nature along the Sneekermeer, offering pleasant curves and few cars for an enjoyable cycling experience.
- Visitors also love De Groene Ster Recreation Area, a large recreational area with lawns, beaches, ponds, forest, and hiking trails. This area is known for both relaxation and active recreation, and is also referred to as "De Kleine Wielen."
- Leeuwarden is known for its diverse natural areas, including national parks, recreation areas, and extensive canal systems. The region offers a variety of lakes, fens, and wetlands to see and explore, catering to different outdoor activities.
- The lakes around Leeuwarden are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 20 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
De Alde Feanen National Park
Highlight • Natural
The national park is located in the center of the province of Friesland and, with an area of approximately 4,000 hectares, represents the largest contiguous natural area in the mainland part of the province. The municipalities of Leeuwarden, Smallingerland, and Tytsjerksteradiel share the park's territory. The small town of Earnewâld, located approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Leeuwarden, is located in the east of the national park and is completely enclosed by it.
At the center of the national park lies the so-called Princenhof, an area consisting of several small lakes, bays, and islands. The Alde Feanen are part of a wide band of peat areas that stretches from Dokkum to Stavoren across the province of Friesland and is known in the Netherlands as “Frieslands Lage Midden”.
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Earnewâld — village and waterways
Highlight • Settlement
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De Groene Ster Recreation Area
Highlight • Natural
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Cycle Path Along the Sneekermeer
Highlight • Cycleway
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Bird Hide Reid om ‘e Krite
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tips from the Community
Very conveniently located parking lot in Earnewald as a starting point for a cycling tour in the De Alde Fearne National Park.
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The center of the De Alde Feanen National Park.
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Top attraction! Watching boats, beautiful nature
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De Alde Feanen National Park is a national park in the Dutch province of Friesland. The Alde Feanen form a diverse wetland with lakes, fens, quaking meadows, swamp forests, and peatlands. The national park is located in the center of the province of Friesland and, with an area of approximately 4,000 hectares, represents the largest contiguous natural area in the mainland part of the province. The municipalities of Leeuwarden, Smallingerland, and Tytsjerksteradiel share the park's territory. The small town of Earnewâld, located approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Leeuwarden, is located in the east of the national park and is completely enclosed by it. At the center of the national park lies the so-called Princenhof, an area consisting of several small lakes, bays, and islands. The Alde Feanen are part of a wide band of peat areas that stretches from Dokkum to Stavoren across the province of Friesland and is known in the Netherlands as “Frieslands Lage Midden”.
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relaxed round and the small ferry crossings are the force
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Opposite is a residential complex with interesting architecture. In principle, you can walk around the inner courtyard, or at least look inside.
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The area was developed into a large recreational area from the 1960s, initially in the municipality of Tietjerksteradeel and added to Leeuwarden in 1984. In the area there are lawns, beaches, ponds, forest and hiking trails. The Green Star is also known to many under the name "De Kleine Wielen", named after the original lake in the local recreation area. On the other side of the road Leeuwarden - Groningen is the Grote Wielen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to find around Leeuwarden?
The region around Leeuwarden is a diverse wetland, characterized by extensive canal systems within the city, and further out, a rich tapestry of lakes, fens, reed beds, swamp forests, and peatlands. Areas like De Alde Feanen National Park showcase this biodiversity, offering a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Are there family-friendly options for visiting lakes near Leeuwarden?
Yes, several areas are well-suited for families. De Groene Ster Recreation Area offers lawns, beaches, ponds, and hiking trails, perfect for relaxation and active recreation. The village of Earnewâld, nestled within De Alde Feanen National Park, is also very family-friendly with its waterways and activities.
What water sports and recreational activities are available?
Leeuwarden and its surrounding lakes are a paradise for water sports. You can enjoy canoeing, Stand Up Paddling (SUP) on the city's canals, or explore the wider lakes by boat. The De Alde Feanen National Park is excellent for boating, while the Pikmeer near Grou is a vibrant hub for various water activities.
Are there good cycling routes near the lakes?
Absolutely. The region offers numerous cycling opportunities. A notable example is the Cycle Path Along the Sneekermeer, which provides a wide, pleasant route through nature with few cars. For more options, you can explore various road cycling routes around Leeuwarden, including those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Leeuwarden guide.
Where can I go hiking around the lakes near Leeuwarden?
Hiking is a popular activity, especially in areas like De Alde Feanen National Park, which features diverse trails through wetlands and forests. De Groene Ster Recreation Area also has dedicated hiking paths. For more detailed routes, refer to the Hiking around Leeuwarden guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Leeuwarden?
The warmer months, typically from spring through early autumn, are ideal for enjoying the lakes and water-based activities. This period offers the best conditions for boating, cycling, hiking, and experiencing the rich biodiversity of the wetlands.
Are there any specific spots for birdwatching?
Yes, De Alde Feanen National Park is a significant haven for birdwatchers, home to over 100 different species. You can also visit the Bird Hide Reid om ‘e Krite, which offers a unique indoor viewing experience with educational information about local birds.
Are there mountain biking trails available near the lakes?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the wider region. You can find various trails that incorporate natural landscapes and offer different difficulty levels. For specific routes, check out the MTB Trails around Leeuwarden guide.
Where can I find parking facilities near the lakes?
For visitors to De Alde Feanen National Park, there is a conveniently located parking lot in Earnewâld, which serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the area. Within Leeuwarden, the Stadsstrand area also offers convenient access for renting water sports equipment.
What makes the canals of Leeuwarden unique?
The canals are a defining feature of Leeuwarden, offering a unique way to experience the city's historic center and architecture. You can take tours on Frisian barges, go canoeing, or try Stand Up Paddling (SUP). The Stadsstrand provides a convenient spot for rentals and has a white sand beach area.
What is the Grote Wielen and what can I do there?
Grote Wielen is a serene nature reserve located across from the Groene Ster. It features several lakes and extensive grassy plains, making it an ideal spot for swimming, walking, and picnicking. There's also a restaurant on the water offering scenic views.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, villages like Earnewâld, situated within De Alde Feanen National Park, offer cozy shops and waterfront restaurants. Grou, known as the water sports capital, also provides various dining options and is a great base for exploring the Frisian lakes.
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