Experience nature

The North of Drenthe is pure nature. And that nature has surprisingly different faces. One moment you look out over impenetrable marshes and dry sandy plains, then you are confronted by an open stream valley where the sun glistens on the water. Vast forests, tranquil pools... You will not be disappointed.

Fochteloërveen

Fochteloërveen is of a near un-Dutch beauty. Gazing into the distance, you experience what most of Drenthe used to look like. A wide range of special plants and animals have their habitats in and around these rare hig h moor marshes. The common crane for instance, which has started brooding in our country for the first time in centuries. Climbing up the lookout tower you realise how vast this area is.

Leekstermeer

There is an abundance of water in the North of Drenthe. Meandering brooks and tranquil pools, but also vast lakes such as Leekstermeer, the largest lake in Drenthe. At the attractive marina you can hire a boat or just simply have a drink and enjoy the views across the water. Not far from the hustle and bustle, tranquillity returns. Water birds brood in the thick fringes of reeds. Leekstermeer is the heart of a vast fenland, the Onlanden. An area rich in birds, where nature is let loose and where you can wander around for hours.

Noordscheveld

Noordscheveld is a magnificent area of natural beauty and archaeological value. The heathlands and forests are home to a wide range of ancient cultural treasures. Walking across the heathlands, you will encounter dozens of prehistoric burial mounds and Celtic fields. Scottish Highlanders and goats imperturbably graze all around you. You can almost feel history at Noordscheveld!

Norgerholt

Norgerholt is a rare piece of primeval forest amid a magnificent landscape of medieval hamlets surrounded by old arable land. At one time, the Mark of the village of Norg used to meet in the forest, between four tall oak trees. The most striking aspect of Norgerholt are the magnificent hollies. Impressively tall and shiny-green. Not far away, in the village of Westervelde, you will come across a small megalith. This is even older than the primeval forest...

Country estates in Drenthe

The North of Drenthe is rich in beautiful county estates. Examples include Vennebroek country estate and De Braak country estate near Eelde. Two historic park woodlands from the 19th century with idyllic beech and oak avenues. Much older is Mensinge country estate in Roden; it is more than six hundred years old and full of special stins plants. There's nothing more pleasant than wandering around these grand country estates.