If you’re planning a trip to Drenthe, get ready to be swept away by the natural beauty of this northern Dutch province. Drenthe is known for its stunning landscapes—from vast forests and purple heathlands to crystal-clear lakes and grazing flocks of sheep. This region is a haven for nature lovers, with a wealth of scenic areas and national parks to explore. But Drenthe has much more to offer than just beautiful nature. History and culture are woven into its landscape, offering unique attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Colonies of Benevolence, ancient “hunebedden” (prehistoric stone tombs), and even a former Nazi camp dating back to World War II.
Sebastiaan grew up in Drenthe, and in 2024, we moved here with our family to settle in Diever, a picturesque village on the edge of the breathtaking Drents-Friese Wold National Park. Since then, we’ve become true locals, discovering all the best spots and experiences Drenthe has to offer. In this blog, we’re excited to share our favorite things to do in Drenthe, from nature walks and scenic spots to cultural sites and must-visit museums!
What Is Drenthe Known for?
Drenthe is famous for its wide-open landscapes, quaint villages, and, of course, its iconic hunebedden—ancient stone burial monuments that have been standing for thousands of years. The province is a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors, especially cyclists, with hundreds of kilometers of bike trails that wind through forests, across heath-covered plains, and right past these remarkable prehistoric stones. The hunebedden are Drenthe’s biggest claim to fame, giving visitors a rare peek into the region’s distant past. And beyond these ancient sites, Drenthe’s national parks, such as Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold, offer serene escapes where you can lose yourself in the peace and quiet of nature.
But Drenthe isn’t just for nature lovers; it also has plenty to offer for fans of history and culture. Highlights include the Drents Museum in Assen, which showcases the province’s rich archaeological and artistic heritage, and Kamp Westerbork, a former Nazi transit camp with a deeply moving history. This blend of culture, natural beauty, and relaxation makes Drenthe the perfect holiday destination within the Netherlands. Even after moving here, we still feel like we’re living in a vacation paradise!
Tip: For a true taste of Drenthe’s charm, take a short Drenthe road trip around the province! It’s the best way to discover the stunning landscapes and unique sights that make Drenthe such a special place.
Where to Stay in Drenthe
Looking to experience Drenthe in a truly memorable way? This beautiful province offers unique places to stay that let you connect with nature or soak up its rich history. Imagine waking up in a luxury treehouse surrounded by forest, unwinding in a cozy tiny house, or spending the night in an authentic castle hotel. From eco-friendly forest cabins to wellness lodges and historic estates, Drenthe has something special for everyone.
We’ve put together a list of one-of-a-kind accommodations, each offering its own distinct charm. Whether you’re drawn to a secluded woodland retreat, a magical treehouse, or the grandeur of a castle stay, these places will turn your visit to Drenthe into an unforgettable getaway.
Here’s a refined version with a focus on readability and flow:
Here’s a selection of 8 unique stays in Drenthe that promise unforgettable experiences:
#1 Treehouse at Camping d’Olde Kamp – Stay in a luxury treehouse with a glass ceiling perfect for stargazing, nestled deep in nature.
#2 Drouwenerzand Treehouse – This cozy, family-friendly treehouse includes access to an adventure park, making it ideal for families looking for fun and relaxation.
#3 Enchanted Forest House De Witte Raaf – A hidden gem with rustic charm, this secluded forest house sits peacefully in the woods of Drents-Friese Wold, perfect for a nature escape.
#4 De Vier Eiken – Wellness Nature Lodge – Enjoy the ultimate relaxation in this wellness lodge, complete with a wood-fired hot tub and private sauna, set right in the midst of Drenthe’s natural beauty.
#5 Tiny Parks – Forest Cabins Drenthe – These cozy tiny houses come with campfire evenings, access to a sauna, and beautiful surroundings right next to Drents-Friese Wold, perfect for outdoor lovers.
#6 Ecological Pioneer’s Cottage in Drenthe – This eco-friendly tiny house, set on the edge of a historic orchard, offers a unique, sustainable stay with charming touches like a hammock and swing chair.
#7 Châteauhotel De Havixhorst – Experience history and romance in this château hotel, complete with a sculpture garden and elegant charm, situated in the scenic Reest Valley.
#8 Castle Hotel Coevorden – Experience medieval grandeur at this castle hotel in Coevorden, complete with a delightful restaurant and a unique setting in a historic fortress town.
Drenthe Tourist Map
The Most Beautiful Nature Spots in Drenthe
Drenthe is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a unique experience with three national parks, fourteen Natura 2000 sites, and countless other scenic locations to explore. From expansive heathlands to lush forests and shifting sand dunes, each area has its own distinct charm and biodiversity. For us, living here feels like a dream come true. But for you, Drenthe could be the perfect place to escape, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the views, Drenthe’s natural beauty has something special for everyone.
#1 Dwingelderveld National Park and the Roaming Sheep Herd
Dwingelderveld National Park, near the charming village of Dwingeloo, stretches across almost 4,000 hectares of peaceful wilderness. This park is known for its vast, wet heathlands, serene ponds, and quiet forests. The large open heath in the center is especially striking and gives the park its unique character. Dwingelderveld is a favorite spot for both hikers and cyclists, and since it’s just a short bike ride from our home in Diever, we often come here to explore the trails ourselves.
One of the highlights of Dwingelderveld is the Ruinen sheep herd, where hundreds of Drenthe heath sheep graze under the watchful eye of a shepherd. This ancient breed helps maintain the heathland by grazing, which is essential to preserving this unique ecosystem. Be sure to visit the lookout tower near the Ruinen sheepfold for a panoramic view over the heath and surrounding forest. If you time it right, you can watch the sheep returning in the late afternoon, a magical sight against the fading light of the day.
#2 Drents-Friese Wold National Park and the Bosberg Tower
Drents-Friese Wold, located on the border between Drenthe and Friesland, is one of the largest continuous nature reserves in the Netherlands, covering more than 6,000 hectares. This national park has a wonderfully varied landscape, including dense forests, heathlands, sand drifts, and marshy areas.
Since we live right on the edge of the Drents-Friese Wold in Diever, we’re lucky to enjoy this beautiful area every day. While there are endless walking trails, the park’s size makes it ideal for cycling as well. One of the highlights here is the Bosberg Tower in Appelscha. This 33-meter-high tower, perched on a sand dune, is the highest point in Friesland. With its striking design of wood and steel, the tower itself feels like a work of art. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the park, and on clear days, you can even see as far as Leeuwarden and Assen. There’s a small fee to enter, and an elevator is available if you prefer not to take the stairs.
#3 Holtingerveld Nature Reserve
Though not officially a national park, Holtingerveld is a stunning 1,782-hectare nature reserve that’s well worth exploring. This diverse landscape features heathlands, forests, ancient burial mounds, and even remnants from World War II, including bomb craters and an old military base. At the heart of Holtingerveld is the Havelterberg, a rare hill formation that adds a unique element to Drenthe’s typically flat landscape.
Holtingerveld is also home to two impressive hunebedden (ancient stone tombs), D53 and D54, which are some of Drenthe’s most famous prehistoric sites. Scattered throughout the area are also several burial mounds, dating back thousands of years, which add to the region’s archaeological significance.
#4 Drentsche Aa National Park
East of Assen lies Drentsche Aa National Park, covering roughly 10,000 hectares of precious natural and cultural landscapes. This area is famous for its traditional “esdorp” villages and winding streams that flow freely through meadows and hedgerows. The Drentsche Aa valley is one of the best-preserved brook systems in Europe, and the landscape here has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Highlights of the Drentsche Aa include the Anlooër Diepje, a picturesque stream flowing through fields and hedges, and the Strubben-Kniphorstbosch archaeological reserve, which is unique in the Netherlands. This area contains hunebedden, dozens of ancient burial mounds, and even an old gallows hill, giving it a distinct sense of history and mystery.
#5 The Blue Lake (Blauwe Meer) and ’t Nije Hemelriek
The Blauwe Meer (Blue Lake) and ’t Nije Hemelriek are two popular swimming lakes located on the Hondsrug in Drenthe, both known for their strikingly clear blue waters.
Blauwe Meer, created by sand excavation, is true to its name with water that’s a vibrant shade of blue, almost turquoise. It’s surrounded by white sandy beaches and dense forest, making it a great spot for a summer swim. In the summer months, there’s a small entry fee for the beach, but you can still enjoy walking around the lake for free, with picnic areas and hiking trails nearby.
Just a bit further down the road, you’ll find ’t Nije Hemelriek, a shallower lake nestled in a forested area. This lake is especially popular with families due to its gently sloping beach and shallow waters. There are walking routes, like the Gasselterveld Route (4.5 km), that circle the lake, offering lovely views of the clear blue water. For a perfect summer outing, you’ll also find playgrounds and a restaurant with a terrace nearby.
#6 Fochteloërveen and the Zeven Tower
On the border of Friesland and Drenthe lies Fochteloërveen, a remarkable high moorland area covering over 2,500 hectares. Known for its open peat fields, rare plants and animals, and the return of the crane (which has been nesting here since 2001), Fochteloërveen is a fantastic spot for hiking and bird-watching. The Wollegraswandeling trail is especially beautiful in spring, when thousands of cotton grasses are in bloom.
One of the standout features of Fochteloërveen is the viewing tower, known as “De Zeven” due to its twisted, seven-like shape. Standing 18 meters tall, this tower offers panoramic views over the moorland. The climb up is steep and can be challenging, especially with small children, but the view from the top is worth it. On clear days, you can see for miles, and in the summer, you might spot cranes flying overhead. There’s even a telescope at the top that our kids loved using to look for birds. The tower, built from larch wood, blends beautifully into the landscape and has won several architecture awards.
#7 Geopark De Hondsrug
Spanning about 70 kilometers through eastern Drenthe and into Groningen, Geopark De Hondsrug is the only UNESCO-designated geopark in the Netherlands. This special area allows visitors to experience the ancient geological history of the earth.
The unique ridged landscape of the Hondsrug was formed during the Saale Ice Age, when glaciers and meltwater carved out parallel ridges and valleys. The Hondsrug itself is the longest and highest ridge, rising up to 26 meters near Emmen. Between the ridges, stream valleys like the Hunzedal still carry water today, giving the area a distinctive topography.
The geopark is known for its hunebedden, built from giant boulders left behind by glaciers from Scandinavia. You can explore the fascinating landscape through various hiking and biking trails, like the Flint Route and the Time Travel Route, which take you through centuries of natural and cultural history.
#8 The Boomkroonpad Treetop Walk
The Boomkroonpad in Drenthe’s Gieten-Borger forestry area offers a unique 125-meter walk through the treetops, giving you a whole new perspective on the forest. At its highest point, the walkway reaches 22.5 meters, allowing you to see the forest from above. The journey starts in an underground “root tunnel” that leads you up to the tree canopy, where you can enjoy the peaceful views.
The nearby Buitencentrum serves as the starting point for numerous hiking trails and offers activities for children, including the Lorkenspeelbos, an adventure play area in the forest.
Fun Fact: Did you know that there are treetop paths like this across Europe? You can find similar walkways in places like Saarland in Germany and the Giant Mountains in the Czech Republic.
The Most Captivating Landmarks in Drenthe
Drenthe’s landmarks offer a deep dive into history, from ancient tombs and medieval villages to WWII memorials and charming breweries. Whether you’re exploring the peaceful hunebedden, reflecting on the resilience of those who passed through Kamp Westerbork, or enjoying a fresh beer at Maallust Brewery, Drenthe has a unique way of bringing the past to life. Set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, these fascinating sites make Drenthe a memorable destination for travelers seeking both culture and history.
#9 Kamp Westerbork and the Radio Observatory
Kamp Westerbork is a former transit camp in Drenthe, originally built in 1939 to shelter Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany. During the German occupation, however, it became a tragic waypoint: from 1942, over 100,000 Jews, Sinti, and Roma were deported from here to concentration camps such as Auschwitz and Sobibor. Today, the camp remains a place of remembrance, with preserved foundations, an original guardhouse, fragments of railway tracks, and several poignant memorials.
Most visitors begin at the Memorial Center, where exhibits share personal stories, film footage, and artifacts from this dark period in history. From the center, you can either walk through the tranquil forest or take a shuttle bus to reach the camp itself. The museum charges a small entry fee, but the camp grounds are open to the public free of charge.
For us, Kamp Westerbork was one of the most moving sites we visited in Drenthe. Informational signs and audio speakers throughout the grounds provide context, adding depth to the experience. Perhaps the most striking feature is the memorial of countless stars, with the imposing radio telescopes of the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope array standing quietly in the background. This series of fourteen radio telescopes, still used for scientific research, forms a powerful contrast to the camp’s painful history. The connection between these “stars” in the sky and the stars representing Jewish victims adds a beautiful, thought-provoking element. Nearby, the “Milky Way Path” explains our galaxy, weaving together themes of science and memory.
#10 The Hunebedden of Drenthe & the Hunebed Center in Borger
The hunebedden, or megalithic tombs, of Drenthe are some of the oldest structures in the Netherlands, dating back roughly 5,000 years. Built with massive boulders brought here by glaciers during the Ice Age, these stone monuments serve as a testament to the engineering skills of ancient people. While you’ll find hunebedden scattered across Drenthe—there’s even one in our village of Diever—the majority are located along the N34, nicknamed the “Hunebed Highway”. This route is home to 47 of the Netherlands’ 52 hunebedden, including the largest, D27, in Borger, which is freely accessible to visitors.
In Borger, you’ll also find the Hunebed Center, a museum dedicated to the prehistoric era and the builders of these stone tombs. Here, you can learn about how the hunebedden were constructed and discover what life was like for the Funnel Beaker Culture, the people who built them. The museum also has a Prehistory Park, with reconstructed Stone Age houses and other features from prehistoric times. It’s an ideal starting point for walking and cycling routes through the beautiful Hondsrug region.
#11 The “Brinkdorpen” of Drenthe
Drenthe is dotted with charming “brinkdorpen,” or green villages, each with its own unique character and timeless appeal. At the heart of these villages is a “brink”—a green common area, often shaded by trees and surrounded by historic farmhouses. In centuries past, these brinks served as gathering places for markets and village events, and they still exude a warm, welcoming atmosphere today.
We’re lucky to live in Diever, a classic brinkdorp that draws plenty of visitors in the summer thanks to its location near the Drents-Friese Wold National Park. During peak season, the village comes alive with bustling terraces, local markets, and easy access to nature.
Zuidlaren is another famous brinkdorp, known for the annual Zuidlaardermarkt and a well-loved children’s song about the local legend Berend Botje. With seven brinks, a picturesque village center, and charming cafes, Zuidlaren is a delight to explore. Dwingeloo, with its unique onion-domed Sint-Nicolaaskerk and nearby radio telescope, is perfect for those looking to combine village charm with nature walks in the nearby Dwingelderveld National Park. Borger, known as the “Hunebed Capital,” is home to the largest hunebed in the Netherlands, the Hunebed Center, and a vibrant village heart. Further on, Ruinen offers a lovely green brink and the historic Mariakerk, making it an excellent base for exploring Dwingelderveld.
#12 Maallust Brewery
The Maallust Brewery is nestled in the historic village of Veenhuizen, once known as the “prison village” of Drenthe. It has built a name for itself since 2011 with its artisanal beers. Located in a former grain mill, the brewery’s setting is as unique as its flavors. In the cozy tasting room, you can sample a range of beers, including the “Zware Jongen” and the “Vagebond”, inspired by traditional brewing European styles.
The brewery offers guided tours lasting about 45 minutes, where you’ll learn about the history of Veenhuizen, the story behind Maallust, and the brewing process itself. The tour wraps up with a tasting of four different beers, giving you a full flavor experience. With its view of the brewing kettles and rustic atmosphere, the tasting room is a perfect spot to enjoy fresh beer in a historic setting.
#13 Sprookjeshof in Zuidlaren
As a child, I already visited at Sprookjeshof with my family during family holidays in Drenthe, and now my own kids get to experience that same magic. Sprookjeshof in Zuidlaren is a delightful family park, making it an ideal day out in Drenthe with children.
In the fairy-tale forest, classic stories like Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel come to life at the push of a button, enchanting visitors of all ages. Beyond the fairy-tale displays, there’s a large outdoor playground with swings, climbing towers, trampolines, and even a toboggan run. Sprookjeshof also has a 3,000-square-meter indoor play area, so the fun can continue rain or shine. There’s even a petting zoo where kids can meet goats, alpacas, and other friendly animals.
#14 Coevorden Castle
Coevorden Castle, Drenthe’s only castle, holds a commanding position in the fortified town of Coevorden. Built in the 11th century as a defensive stronghold, it played a key role in protecting the region from invasions from Germany. Over the centuries, the castle has been besieged, plundered, and rebuilt numerous times, especially during the Eighty Years’ War.
Today, Coevorden Castle is a beautiful setting for weddings and a romantic castle hotel, its historic architecture carefully preserved through multiple restorations. With its thick walls, inner courtyard, and medieval towers, it’s easy to see why it’s now a popular venue for special events. Guided tours (in Dutch) are available, allowing visitors to explore the castle’s rich history and timeless charm.
The Most Fascinating Museums in Drenthe
#15 Orvelte Living Museum Village
Orvelte, located in the heart of Drenthe, is one of the region’s most beloved attractions. This entire village functions as an open-air museum, allowing visitors to experience life as it was in a traditional Drenthe farming village in the 19th century. With its cobblestone streets, thatched-roof Saxon farmhouses, and lush gardens, Orvelte feels like stepping into the past. Wandering through the village is free, and you’re welcome to explore at your own pace. Certain workshops and small museums within the village may charge a small entry fee, but the overall experience of Orvelte is open to everyone.
In Orvelte, you’ll find a range of fascinating stops, such as a working blacksmith’s forge, a traditional wooden clog workshop, and the Ottenshoes, where craftsmen demonstrate age-old skills. One highlight is the Melkfabriekje, a small exhibit on traditional dairy processing. With its nostalgic atmosphere and dedication to preserving rural heritage, Orvelte is an enchanting place to visit.
#16 Ellert and Brammert Museum
In Schoonoord, not far from Orvelte, lies the Ellert and Brammert Museum, an open-air museum dedicated to Drenthe’s rural history and the lives of peat workers. The museum is named after two mythical giants, Ellert and Brammert, who are said to have roamed the Drenthe moors. Statues of the giants greet you at the entrance, and you can even explore a recreated “robbers’ den” to bring the local legend to life.
The museum grounds feature a collection of traditional Drenthe buildings, including a turf hut, a Saxon farmhouse, an old schoolhouse, and even a jail. There’s also a toll gate and a country-style café where you can relax with a snack. For families, the museum offers a petting zoo and playground, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages. The Ellert and Brammert Museum is an immersive way to learn about Drenthe’s rural past and the tough lives of peat workers.
#17 The UNESCO Colonies of Benevolence
If you’re curious about Drenthe’s social history, don’t miss the Colonies of Benevolence. Located in places like Frederiksoord and Veenhuizen, these colonies were founded in 1818 by General Johannes van den Bosch as part of a social experiment aimed at reducing urban poverty. Poor and unemployed city dwellers were given the opportunity to start fresh in the countryside, where they worked on farms and received housing, education, and healthcare. This pioneering project is often seen as the foundation of the Dutch welfare state, and in 2021, the Colonies were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for their unique role in the history of social reform.
The Colonies’ landscapes are marked by straight roads, farmhouses, and canals, reflecting the organized structure of these settlements. Veenhuizen, originally a penal colony for beggars and vagrants, still has many historic buildings, including dormitories and an old prison.
In Frederiksoord, you’ll find Museum De Proefkolonie, where exhibits explain the lives of the first settlers. We visited shortly after moving to Drenthe, and it was fascinating to learn why so many of the farmhouses in the region look similar—they were all part of this social experiment. One of the highlights was a 180-degree film that vividly brought the history of the colony to life.
#18 Veenhuizen Prison Museum
The National Prison Museum in Veenhuizen is another key part of the story of the Colonies of Benevolence. This museum dives into the history of the Dutch prison system and the unique role of Veenhuizen as a colony founded by the Society of Benevolence.
Originally established in 1823 as a forced-labor settlement for beggars and vagrants, Veenhuizen grew into a full-fledged prison village, with its own churches, schools, and even its own currency. Today, the museum is housed in one of the original detention buildings and takes visitors through the evolution of punishment and incarceration in the Netherlands from the 17th century to the present.
One of the highlights is the infamous “Red Roof Prison” (Rode Pannen), where you can join a guided tour to experience what it’s like to be locked in a cell. This tour requires a separate ticket, but it’s an unforgettable, hands-on way to understand the harsh reality of prison life.
#19 Drents Museum in Assen
Located on the historic Brink in Assen, the Drents Museum is a cultural gem that showcases archaeology, art, and history. Established in 1854, it’s one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, housed in a beautifully restored 1885 building that once served as Drenthe’s provincial government office. The museum’s architecture alone is worth the visit, with a stunning mix of old and new—its modern underground wing, designed by architect Erick van Egeraat, blends seamlessly with the classical coach house and the old abbey church.
The museum’s collection offers a comprehensive look at Drenthe’s history, including famous archaeological treasures like the bog body known as the “Girl of Yde” and the Pesse Canoe, the oldest known boat in the world. The Drents Museum is also renowned for its rotating international exhibitions, which have included everything from China’s Terracotta Army to contemporary art. It’s a museum that brings the world to Drenthe while celebrating the region’s unique past.
#20 Veenpark Open-Air Museum
Another must-visit for anyone interested in Drenthe’s peat history is the Veenpark, an open-air museum dedicated to the lives of peat workers and the history of peat extraction. Established in 1966, the Veenpark gives visitors a glimpse into the tough conditions that peat workers endured in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The park includes two recreated peat villages: ‘t Aole Compas, which depicts life around 1870 with simple turf huts and modest living conditions, and Bargermond, which recreates a 1920s village with a blacksmith’s workshop, a bakery, and a general store. A particular treat for families is the chance to explore the park on a historic steam train or a traditional peat boat, adding an element of adventure to the experience. The Veenpark is not only a history lesson, but also a fun day out, especially for children.
