Nature

Some areas are below sea level, and the Netherlands relies on a complicated system of canals for land drainage.

There is a wealth of water, and surface waters cover almost 10% of the country.

These are not only wonderful canals and waterways but also many large lakes such as Ijsselmeer, Oosterschelde and Grevelingen, as well as important rivers such as the Rijn (Rhine), Lek, Waal, Maas, and Ijssel.

And therefore swimming and water sports are a top priority in the Netherlands.