Effective visitor distribution in De Maasduinen National Park thanks to Google Maps optimization
De Maasduinen National Park, a jewel in North Limburg, was facing a luxury problem. The park attracted a lot of tourist traffic, but visitors were mainly concentrated around the visitor center. The reason? Anyone typing “De Maasduinen” into Google Maps was automatically directed to this single location. This caused undesirable crowding in one spot, while other beautiful parts of the park, including restaurants, cafes, and spacious parking lots, remained undiscovered.
Research showed that a large portion of visitors were first-timers who relied entirely on Google Maps for navigation. The challenge was clear: how can we improve the digital findability of the entire area and ensure a better distribution of tourism?
The solution
A Digital Map that Reflects Reality
Trendsportal and the municipality of Bergen engaged the expertise of Localyse to improve the information in Google Maps and thus direct the flow of visitors. The approach consisted of two phases:
Phase 1: Getting the Basics Right
- Creating an area polygon: Instead of a single pin on the map, the entire National Park is now marked as an area. This immediately provides a better overview.
- Adding the three main entrances (Eikpunten): The three official “park gates” – Eikpunt Bleijenbeek, Eikpunt Seurenheide, and Eikpunt De Hamert – have been added as fully-fledged Points of Interest (POIs). Searches for “Maasduinen” now also show these alternative starting points.
- Optimizing routes: Unwanted cut-through routes, which were only accessible to residents, have been closed to car traffic in the navigation system.
Phase 2: Enrichment and Deepening
- Adding extra points of interest: To increase the attractiveness of the different parts of the park, various smaller POIs have been added, such as the Genooi Chapel, the burial mound near De Hamert, and the Venkoelen.
Improving parking information: The parking options at the various entrances have been analyzed and more clearly indicated.
The Result
Peace, space, and a rich experience
The adjustments have had an immediate effect. Visitors planning a day trip or a weekend away to De Maasduinen now get a more complete and accurate picture in Google Maps.
- Better visitor distribution: Tourists are now naturally spread across the different entrances, leading to less crowding and a more pleasant experience for everyone.
- Improved findability: The various Eikpunten and points of interest are now individually findable, which increases the visibility of the entire area.
Correct and safe navigation: The adjusted routes cause less inconvenience for local residents and contribute to traffic safety.
Discover the diversity of De Maasduinen
Are you looking for a beautiful nature reserve for a day out or a weekend trip in Limburg? Discover De Maasduinen National Park. Perfect for hiking and cycling in North Limburg. Thanks to the improved Google Maps navigation, you can now easily find quiet starting points like Eikpunt Bleijenbeek, Eikpunt Seurenheide, and Eikpunt De Hamert. Avoid the crowds and plan your visit using the correct hiking trails, cycling routes, and parking spots. Enjoy the unique nature and tranquility that this beautiful piece of the Netherlands has to offer.
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