The Maasduinen National Park, located in the north of Limburg, is a unique nature reserve of more than 4500 hectares. The park extends over an elongated sand ridge between the Maas and the German border, and contains the longest river dune belt in the Netherlands. The park was created by a combination of water, wind and human influence over thousands of years. The area offers a varied landscape of forests, heathlands and dunes, where a rich flora and fauna can be found, including rare butterfly species, the nightjar, and the crane, which rests here in spring and autumn. The Maasduinen is an ideal place for walking and cycling tours, and also offers opportunities for experiencing nature and education. The park is managed by various organisations and is an important link in the nature network between the Netherlands and Germany.