The small village of Oostknollendam lies in a sea of islands. Although this beautiful village is not very large, it is situated right beside the largest area of uninterrupted fenland meadow in Europe: the Jisper and Wormerveld. The area is teeming with grassland birds. From De Poelboerderij Visitor Centre travel by electric boat beside the reeds and fenland islands. Various walking and cycling trips are also available. Alternatively, hire a canoe in the marina and paddle straight into the expansive nature reserve. Use the canoe network junctions, which take you past the most beautiful spots. Did you know that the cows that graze here are transported by boat?
If you love walking then opt for the Oosteindepad at the end of summer and beginning of autumn (this path is closed in the winter to protect guests such as widgeons). A slightly shorter route takes you through the Schaalsmeerpolder. Especially interesting for bird spotters. No less than four hundred pairs of black-tailed godwits breed here and spoonbills can be seen regularly. There are hundreds of tiny islands here surrounded by rustling reeds and small canals. Cycling here is also possible and takes you past the different forts in the Defence Line of Amsterdam. With almost two thousand hectares of nature reserve you won't get bored quickly.