Gardens
In front of the Petruskerk in Pieterburen lies the beautifully cultivated botanical garden, Domies Toen. This garden, which used to belong to the pastor, contains paths along the flowering plants and includes a tea house. In Eenrum, the Kwekerij (nursery garden) De Kleine Plantage regularly organizes days for plant enthusiasts. The garden guide, Het Tuinpad Op, describes numerous private gardens that are open to visitors.
Tidal Marshes
The Groninger Landschap organizes various excursions from the visitors centre Buitenplaats Noordkust in Pieterburen, where you can also watch a film about the tidal marshes, dykes and mud flats.
Nationaal Park Lauwersmeer
Until recently the northern border between Groningen and Friesland used to be a rugged tidal area: the Lauwerszee. This briny delta was closed off from the Waddenzee in 1969 with a dyke and the character of this 9000 hectare area was altered strongly within a short time. A freshwater area came into being, which has since then developed into a special natural reserve. Through the unusual soil structure (the former sea bed), many uncommon plants and various varieties of orchids grow here, and an enormous amount of birds have this area as their breeding grounds. Every year more than 100 excursions and activities take place in the Nationaal Park Lauwersmeer.
Seals
They are our neighbours and sometimes you can even hear them howling. They are lodged in the Zeehondencreche (Seal Care Centre) Lenie 't Hart. You haven't really been in Pieterburen if you haven't favoured them with a visit.
House Pets
Huisdierenerf 'Het Bonte Hof', run by animal trainer and artist Monique Duran is definitely worth a visit with the kids. You can find it before the entrance to the Zeehondencreche.
Insects
Ever had a snake around your neck, petted an owl, let a cockroach crawl over your hand? Experience it close up in the active nature centre Insektenwereld in Leens.
Goats
Visit 'Eenhorn', the billy goat that gives milk at the goat milk farm, the Duinhoeve, in Broek near Pieterburen. They have their own cheese factory and a farm store, and you can take a look in the stalls.
