The topography of the European Netherlands is almost exclusively characterized by low-lying plains. Approximately 26% of the country's area is situated below sea level, and about 50% is less than one meter above sea level. This unique topography requires a sophisticated, continuous system of dikes, seawalls, and pumping stations to prevent flooding.
The lowest point is the Zuidplaspolder, dropping to 6.7 meters (22 feet) below sea level. The highest point in the European Netherlands is the Vaalserberg in the southeastern province of Limburg, reaching 322 meters (1,056 feet). However, the absolute highest point in the entire Kingdom is Mount Scenery, a potentially active volcano on the Caribbean island of Saba, which stands at 887 meters (2,910 feet).
While the west and north are extremely flat and dominated by polders and coastal dunes, the eastern and southern parts of the country feature slight undulations, forests, and heathlands, particularly in regions like the Veluwe.
