Marker Wadden
Flevoland
Marker Wadden is an innovative artificial archipelago developed between 2016 and 2021 in the Markermeer, a freshwater lake in the Netherlands. The project aims to create a nature reserve that enhances biodiversity and water ecology by establishing breeding grounds and wetland habitats comparable to the Wadden Sea, but without tides. The islands were constructed using sand, clay, and sediment dredged from the lake, which had suffered from ecological degradation due to turbidity and sediment accumulation. The largest island features a harbor and eco-friendly buildings forming the settlement of Marker Wadden, which is partially accessible to visitors. The archipelago supports numerous breeding bird species such as pied avocet, common tern, and little tern, contributing significantly to regional biodiversity. This large-scale ecological restoration project is part of the Nieuw Land National Park and represents one of the largest nature projects in Western Europe. A ferry service connects the islands to Lelystad, facilitating eco-tourism and scientific research.
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Tip: The best time to visit Marker Wadden is during the spring and summer months when bird breeding activity is at its peak. Visitors should consider booking ferry tickets from Lelystad in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Limited public access is available only on the main island, which features walking trails and observation points. Discounts may be available for groups or educational tours. Visitors are advised to bring binoculars and wear suitable outdoor clothing for nature exploration.
Interesting facts
- •Marker Wadden is one of the largest nature restoration projects in Western Europe, covering around 800 hectares in its first phase.
- •The islands provide breeding grounds for over 200 pairs of pied avocet and large colonies of common and little terns.
- •The name 'Marker Wadden' refers to the Wadden Sea but the islands have no tidal influence as Markermeer is a freshwater lake.
- •Sediment dredged from the Markermeer was used to build the islands, addressing ecological issues caused by sediment accumulation.
- •The project is part of the Nieuw Land National Park, which also includes Oostvaardersplassen and Lepelaarplassen.
- •In 2024, Marker Wadden hosted a major ecological conference focused on water ecology and coastal science.
History
Marker Wadden was proposed in 2012 by the Vereniging Natuurmonumenten as an alternative to the canceled Markerwaard polder project.
Construction began in 2016 with the first island inaugurated in September that year.
The project aimed to restore the ecological quality of the Markermeer, which had deteriorated due to sediment buildup and water turbidity after the completion of the Houtribdijk in 1976.
The archipelago was developed in phases, with plans for five islands covering approximately 800 hectares by 2021.
It forms part of the Nieuw Land National Park, established in 2018.
The project continues to expand and supports ongoing ecological research and conservation efforts.
Place Guide
Main Island Settlement2016-2021
The largest island hosts a harbor and several eco-friendly buildings that make up the settlement area, serving as the main visitor access point and base for ecological activities.
Bird Breeding ColoniesSince 2016
Marker Wadden provides vital breeding habitats for numerous bird species including pied avocet, common tern, and little tern, making it a significant ornithological site.
