Spiegelplas

Spiegelplas is a lake located in the municipality of Ankeveen, in the Dutch province of North Holland. The lake is part of a larger area of wetlands and peat bogs, which are characteristic of the landscape in this region. Spiegelplas is known for its relatively clear water, a rarity in the Netherlands, which is due to the sandy bottom and the presence of vegetation that helps to filter the water.

The lake is a popular spot for recreational activities. During the warmer months, it attracts swimmers, sunbathers, and picnickers. The surrounding area is also used for walking and cycling, offering scenic views of the Dutch countryside. Birdwatching is another popular pastime, as the wetlands around Spiegelplas are home to a diverse range of avian species.

Historically, the area was shaped by peat extraction, a practice that led to the formation of many of the shallow lakes and polders in the region. While Spiegelplas is not as extensively managed as some other Dutch nature reserves, its ecological significance lies in its contribution to the local biodiversity and the preservation of a semi-natural landscape. The lake and its surroundings are considered an important ecological zone within the Vechtplassen area, a network of interconnected lakes and waterways.