Man-Made Land

Entirely reclaimed from the sea, the Netherlands’ youngest province is home to innovative architecture and sprawling nature reserves shaped by human hands.

Lying four metres below sea level, Flevoland – the result of a large-scale land reclamation project in the 1930s – is a province associated with cutting-edge architecture and a sustainable vision. Lelystad and Almere are fast-growing urban centres teeming with mindblowing urban art and cultural hotspots – such as the Kunstlinie and Agora theatres. These modern polder cities blend forward-thinking design with futuristic urban planning, all the while embracing the water and nature right on their doorstep. Elsewhere, the region’s watery past is still apparent in its nautical history and impressive natural landscapes. Unique man-made nature reserves such as Nieuw Land National Park and Marker Wadden provide vast swathes of protected marshlands for migrating birds and ample opportunity for recreation, cycling and wildlife tours. New Land proves that human hands can shape even the wildest natural environments. Meanwhile, the not-to-bemissed Land Art on show throughout the region makes for an ideal day trip.

Bakboord

Let the exquisite sea views and landscapes of Almere guide you to a dining experience inspired by nature. Bakboord restaurant prides itself on freshly caught seafood and produce from its own organic vegetable garden. The harbourside restaurant has long been considered one of the best in Flevoland, and the view from the lounge terrace is as exceptional as their creative plates.

RESTAURANTBAKBOORD.NL

Oostvaardersplassen

The rugged expanse of Nieuw Land National Park is a truly unique landscape. One of the main areas to explore is the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, a fantastic spot for a hike or a day of birdwatching. Its ‘locals’ include not just birds but also deer, cattle, foxes, hares and Konik ponies. Take a hike or bike ride to spot these animals on your own, or go on an organised full-moon walk or ‘golden hour’ safari. More in the mood to sit back and relax? Join the Nieuw Land Experience and discover the area by bus – with pick up in Amsterdam.

NATIONAALPARKNIEUWLAND.NL, NIEUWLANDEXPERIENCE.NL

Flevo wine

‘Although the Netherlands may not be wellknown for its wine, I had an incredible experience at Life Contains Beautiful Things in Almere. This tiny family-owned winery, located in the Flevoland province not far from Amsterdam, boasts three beautiful cabins nestled among the vineyards. My husband and I spent the most magical day and evening there, feeling calm for the rst time in a long while. With a natural pool, hammock and covered seating area, there was ample space for everyone to enjoy nature. I particularly enjoyed lying on the grass and gazing up at the clouds as we savoured their wine. It was an unforgettable experience, particularly since it was on land that didn’t even exist a hundred years ago!’

YOUTUBE.COM/AWANDERLUSTFORLIFE

Jessica Cutrufe o

Batavia Stad

Land Art Weekend

New Land is home to the world’s most signi cant concentration of Land Art – giant artworks made in response to the surrounding landscape. Travel to Lelystad to see world-famous artist Antony Gormley’s Exposure, a 26-metre tall structure of metal beams in the shape of a crouching man. Or the Green Cathedral by Dutch artist Marinus Boezem, which is a formation of 178 poplar trees modelled on the Gothic cathedral of Reims. During Land Art Weekend, a knowledgeable guide will explain the pieces, and performances and activities will be held at the various locations.

3-4 JUNE, LANDARTFLEVOLAND.NL

Batavia Stad is a lakeside fashion outlet centre in the city of Lelystad that o ers more than 250 fashion brands, and cafés and restaurants. Bargain hunters ock here from around the country to seek out big brands at wallet-friendly prices. Look for 30-70% discount deals on fashionable items from prestigious Dutch and international designers. Visitors from outside the EU can bene t from even more savings by shopping tax-free.

BATAVIASTAD.COM

How to get there

Almere: Take a train from Amsterdam Central station to Almere Centrum (20 minutes).

Nieuw Land National Park: Take the train to Almere Oostvaarders. From there, it’s a 20-minute walk to the visitor centre (60 minutes).

After sampling freshly-caught seafood and regional delicacies in Volendam, take the ferry to nearby Marken, another picturesque shing village that retains its unique history and character.

LAAGHOLLAND.COM, MARKENEXPRESS.NL