Flevoland
History
Flevoland is the Netherlands' youngest province, created entirely through large-scale land reclamation projects in the 20th century. The Dutch drained the Zuiderzee (now the IJsselmeer) in phases, with the first polder completed in 1930 and the final area incorporated in 1968. This engineering feat transformed what was once open water into productive farmland and new towns, showcasing Dutch expertise in water management. The province's creation represents one of the most ambitious hydraulic engineering projects in European history.
Culture
Flevoland embodies modern Dutch planning and efficiency, with its towns designed on a grid system and its landscape shaped by rational agricultural principles rather than centuries of organic growth. The province has developed a distinct identity as a land of new beginnings, attracting entrepreneurs and families seeking fresh opportunities. Traditional Dutch culture persists here, but with a forward-looking character that sets it apart from older provinces with more established customs and heritage.
Language
Dutch is spoken throughout Flevoland, with the local accent influenced by standard Dutch rather than by a strong historical dialect, since the region's population is relatively recent. Standard Dutch phrases are universally understood and appreciated by locals.
Best time to visit
Visit from June to September for water sports and cycling across polders.
Places to visit
- Lelystad — The capital of Flevoland and a modern planned city built on reclaimed polder land, showcasing impressive Dutch engineer…
- Almere — The Netherlands' fastest-growing city and one of Europe's largest artificial cities, known for innovative architecture…
- Markermeer Lake — A large freshwater lake created during polder reclamation, offering excellent sailing, windsurfing, and water sports op…
- Urk — A charming former island village with traditional fishing heritage, colorful wooden houses, and narrow streets that ret…
- Emmeloord — A planned town in North Flevoland with a distinctive circular layout and central church tower visible across the polder…
- Dronten — A historic town blending old and new, with charming medieval-style architecture and modern amenities in a polder settin…
- IJsselmeer Waterfront — The western edge of Flevoland along the historic IJsselmeer lake, offering scenic cycling routes, sailing opportunities…
- Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve — A significant wetland and bird sanctuary featuring diverse wildlife including wild horses, deer, and hundreds of bird s…
- Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet — Europe's largest designer fashion outlet village located near Lelystad, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment op…
- Ketelhuis Theatre — A cultural venue in Almere housed in a renovated historic industrial building, hosting theater, dance, and performances…
- Lepelenburg Park — A scenic waterfront park in Almere featuring green spaces, walking and cycling paths, and recreational facilities along…
- Polder Cycling Network — Flevoland's extensive network of flat cycling routes across the polder, offering some of the best cycling conditions in…
Where to eat
- De Librije (Modern European, Zwolle). Order: Chef's tasting menu with wine pairing.
- Restaurant Catch by Simonis (Seafood, Lelystad). Order: Lobster thermidor or daily fish special.
- Restaurant Aan de Poel (Dutch Contemporary, Almere). Order: Smoked eel with apple and horseradish.
- De Watertuin (International, Almere). Order: Fish and chips or international pasta dishes.
- Restaurant Savarin (French-Belgian, Dronten). Order: Duck à l'orange or beef preparations.
- Greetje aan Zee (Seafood, Urk). Order: Smoked eel and grilled sea bass.
- Restaurant De Slaet (International Casual, Lelystad). Order: Pan-fried fish or mussels in season.
- Restaurant De Watertuin Lelystad (Mediterranean, Lelystad). Order: Seafood pasta or grilled fish platters.
- Bries Bries (French Bistro, Almere). Order: Coq au vin or French onion soup.
- Restaurant Fortuna (Dutch Traditional, Kampen). Order: Pea soup or braised beef.
- Restaurant Zilt & Zoet (Contemporary Dutch, Lelystad). Order: Local fish with seasonal vegetables.
- Restaurant De Jonge (International, Almere). Order: Steak or fresh fish selection.
- Het Wapen van Kampen (Dutch Regional, Kampen). Order: Kampen's local fish preparations.
- Restaurant Aan de Vecht (French Contemporary, Dronten). Order: Seasonal fish or game preparations.