Pantropica (voorheen de Orchideeën Hoeve) — Attraction in Noordoostpolder

Fabulous day out! This tropical nature park is a real hidden gem, and so well designed that you are really in the nature- beautiful butterflies flit past your head, as you walk along by a stream and you can feed the fish. Everywhere you have multiple options- if you want to stroll, or you're in a wheelchair take the smooth path, or clamber along the rocks under the bridge. There's plenty of benches dotted about so there's no need to rush through. The whole atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. And the more time you spend there, the more there is to see. Was that a toucan, hopping around the bush? Over there, turtles! A whole flock of flamingos! A gecko on the branch over your head. Orchids, and weird tropical plants everywhere. Plan to spend at least 4-5 hours there and remember it's a a collection of tropical nature areas, with a TROPICAL atmosphere- my tip is to dress in layers, because it's pleasantly warm in there. The day we went was 6 degrees outside, but we were quickly down to t-shirts. The staff were extremely nice in a relaxed and welcoming way, but once you're inside, it really is a tropical paradise, just you and nature. There's go-carts for the kids and a kid's water adventure area, so bring your kids swimsuit! Two good restaurants, for snacks and very nice cakes. But if you're an adult, don't think it's a kid's park. It's not at all 'dumbed down' .It's intelligently set out and there's lots of fun to be had for everyone. Bring your camera! Google only allows photos, and I didn't take many. You can see more on their website. I plan on going back again in a...

Just when you think you have seen it all, there is another hall. And another. And another. :D Chock full with the most bizarre beautiful plants. And a big aquarium, and a GIANT aquarium with pretty large fish. And an enormous butterfly garden. Everywhere there's birds to spot moving freely around - we even spotted a little chick chirruping for its parents. And fish, and tortoises. The whole setup is very accessible for wheelchairs, but there is also a lot of climb-through paths for people not bound to one. The restaurant with the hanging garden and the mirror walls defies description... well, just go see it for yourself. There is a bar about halfway, a restaurant I already described, and outside the paid venue there is an even bigger restaurant that is a nice place to rest (we took well over 3 hours so we were a bit peckish). At the end, there is also quite a large shop with pretty plants and plant related stuff, we managed to restrain ourselves to buying only 2 orchids, which took quite some self control ;)

Well worth the trip, especially if you are interested in plants in general, but there is also lots to see and do for kids. I loved the butterfly nursery - we have been looking for 15 minutes how a giant blue morpho caterpillar methodically and precisely stripped down a leaf.

Be advised: it's much bigger than it initially seems, there is lots to read and learn, and lots to see. Take your time to stand still and...

Orchideeën Hoeve pleasantly surprised us. It is a botanical garden that focuses on orchids and other tropical plants. It is situated on a large area and offers a variety of natural attractions, including beautiful flowers, plants, animals, fish, and birds. Parking is free for all visitors. The park has recreated different landscapes to showcase different types of flora and fauna.

The park has clear and interesting descriptions in Dutch, German, and English. There are also various boutiques that sell a variety of products, including flowers, plants, seeds, jewelry, souvenirs, clothing, and more.

The restaurant is large, clean, and has a lovely view of the flowers and stunning landscape. The food offerings are also satisfactory.

Overall, Orchideeën Hoeve is a perfect destination for a day out for young and old. It is a great place to connect with nature and expose your children to the...