The Biesbosch National Park
Unique freshwater Delta
The Biesbosch National Park is a nature conservation area and the largest fresh water tidal zone in Europe.
This means, for example, that you will find many streams and willow swamps there.
With tall, luxuriant willow forests, the area looks just like a jungle!
What to do
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Walking
Hiking through the Biesbosch is quite an experience! The trails take in a diversity of landscapes from verdant riverbanks, to wetlands and polders rich in birdlife. Take your camera: there’s always something around the corner that will take you by surprise.
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Cycling
There are many fantastic cycle routes that criss-cross the region. At the information centres you can pick up a map (Waar naar toe in en om de Biesbosch) showing all the marked bike points. Choose your route and go exploring!
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Sailing
The Biesbosch is best experienced from the water! Navigate your way alongside willow woods and lush riverbanks, through narrow creeks or across larger expanses of water in a canoe, rowing- or electric boat. The Biesbosch is an expansive region where the tides hold sway. So beware of shallow waters, currents and the long distances. As well as taking a boat out yourself, you can also choose to go on a boat trip.
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Excursions
Would you rather be accompanied by a guide? Then why not book an excursion and join a voyage of discovery? A Biesbosch guide or park ranger can tell you about everything you see and hear. In this way, a guided tour on foot or by boat can bring about the authentic Biesbosch experience.
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Cultural History
Cultural History
In the wake of the devastating Saint Elizabeth Flood of 1421, a wetland region of small islands emerged. Rushes, called ‘bies’ in Dutch, were the first plant species to take hold, hence the name given to the area, the Biesbosch. Read more.
Practical information
Dogs
Dogs on a lead are welcome in most places in the Biesbosch. In certain areas they are not allowed and there are signs to warn you of this. These measures are necessary to protect the countryside and so as not to disturb the birdlife, other animals and the enjoyment of other visitors.
Accommodation
The Biesbosch National Park is a delightful area in which to spend a weekend or short break and get to know the surroundings. There are options aplenty: you can stay in a cosy B&B with distant views, in a tent in ‘the wilderness’, or on your own boat close to the beavers.
Disabled visitors
If you are less mobile or get around in a wheelchair, you can still see many of the attractions in the Biesbosch. You can find information about disabled access at visitor centres. The ‘Ohsostill’ tour boat from the Biesbosch MuseumEiland in Werkendam is accessible for disabled persons and has a lift and space for four wheelchairs.
Rules and regulations
To protect its natural beauty and to make sure that everyone can enjoy the Biesbosch, the national park applies a number of rules. For example, you can only moor boats at designated jetties, mooring posts and play areas. Thinking of camping? You can only do so in designated areas. Wild camping is not allowed. Campfires are not permitted and barbecues must be at least 40 cm above the ground. Take waste with you or leave it in one of the waste bins throughout the park. The Biesbosch is officially designated as a ‘quiet area’ and we would ask you to respect this at all times. In this way, all visitors can get the best enjoyment from the Biesbosch.
Visitor centres
The Region
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Altena
Altena
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Geertruidenberg
Geertruidenberg
