Learning across borders: Dutch National Parks visit Denmark

Facilitating international exchange is at the core of EUROPARC’s work. As such, it’s always a great pleasure to see our members connecting across borders. In this guest article, learn more about the Dutch National Parks visit to Denmark.

This is a guest article written by Adriaan Buitink, Senior Advisor, Dutch National Park Office.

The EUROPARC network connects!

From 13 to 16 May 2025, a delegation from Dutch National Parks and partner organisations embarked on a study visit to Denmark. The exchange focused on two Protected Areas: Thy National Park in the northwest and Mols Bjerge National Park in the southeast of Jutland.

Despite their geographic proximity and cultural similarities, Denmark and the Netherlands differ in key respects, as the Netherlands is far more densely populated, and Denmark has more space for nature. Yet both face common challenges: balancing conservation with intensive agriculture, responding to climate change, and navigating evolving societal expectations.

Exploring Thy National Park

In Hanstholm, the group was warmly welcomed by Else Østergaard Andersen and members of the National Park’s board. During an introductory dinner, Board Chair Karen Louise Erichsen shared insights into the National Park’s governance and recent developments.

The next day offered a deep dive into the National Park’s diverse themes: dune conservation, cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and collaboration with local entrepreneurs. A standout moment was the visit to an “outdoor school,” where young people, many from urban environments, spend two years immersed in nature. The programme helps them find direction and inspiration in life through direct contact with the landscape. You can learn more about the programme here (in Danish). 

Participants experienced the National Park’s raw beauty during a hike near the Lodbjerg lighthouse, where sweeping dunes meet dramatic cliffs. They also appreciated the inclusive design of minimalist overnight huts, accessible even to those with disabilities.

Discovering Mols Bjerge National Park

On 15 May, the delegation travelled southeast to Mols Bjerge National Park. Here, CEO Birgitte Lamp welcomed them to a distinctly different landscape: rolling green hills framed by the sea.

Discussions centred around sustainable tourism and the National Park’s growing focus on nature and public health, particularly mental well-being. One innovative programme, developed in cooperation with local municipalities, offers nature retreats aimed specifically at men. This initiative reflects a broader trend in Denmark to embed nature more fully into healthcare and social support systems. These efforts are backed by both policy and financial resources.

The delegation also visited Agri, where a form of nature restoration and rewilding is being trialled in close collaboration with landowners. Unique biodiversity thrives here, shaped by both soil conditions and the inaccessibility of certain hilltops to modern machinery. Glacial boulders are being returned to the landscape to preserve its geological history and cultural memory. Interestingly, the area features minimal signage, inviting a more intuitive and immersive experience of the National Park.

There is a broader trend in Denmark to better embed nature into healthcare and social support systems.

Key Takeaways for National Parks Across Europe

This visit sparked rich exchanges and offered valuable insights for Protected Area professionals working across Europe:

• Strategic Commitment: Long-term vision and consistent funding from central government are key to achieving tangible results.
• Volunteer Power: Engaging volunteers in meaningful ways strengthens both National Park operations and public connection to nature.
• Health & Nature: There’s untapped potential in aligning health systems – governmental and insurance-based – with the therapeutic value of natural landscapes.
• Integrated Policy: National Parks can serve as vital hubs in implementing cross-sector policy on agriculture, nitrogen, recreation, education, public health, and the regional economy.
• Funding and Outreach: There is room to expand both “fundraising” and “friendraising,” including through EU-level opportunities.
  

  The Dutch delegation in Denmark

A Promising Start to Lasting Collaboration

Study visits like these highlight the importance of peer learning and exchange. They remind us that Protected Areas are not only landscapes to be conserved but also platforms for innovation, inclusion, and inspiration.

Contacts have been established and I am happy to say a return visit to the Netherlands may soon be on the horizon!

The EUROPARC Federation thanks Adriaan for providing these valuable insights!