bigtravelbuzzDrenthe, a province in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. In this guide, we will help you explore the best that Drenthe has to offer, from places to visit to travel tips.
Discovering Drenthe
Places to Visit
Hunebedden: Drenthe is famous for its prehistoric megalithic tombs called hunebedden. The Hunebed Center in Borger is an excellent place to learn about these ancient structures.
Dwingelderveld National Park: This expansive heathland and forest area is perfect for hiking and cycling. Explore its tranquil beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
Assen: The capital of Drenthe, Assen, features the Drents Museum, known for its archaeological and artistic collections, and the TT Circuit Assen for motorsports enthusiasts.
Kamp Westerbork: A former Nazi transit camp, it is now a museum and memorial dedicated to the history of the Holocaust in the Netherlands.
Orvelte: Step back in time in this open-air museum village with traditional thatched-roof houses, cobblestone streets, and artisan workshops.
Best Time To Visit
Drenthe experiences different charms throughout the year:
Spring (April to June): Witness the hunebedden and heathlands coming to life with colorful blooms.
Summer (July to August): Ideal for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and enjoying the many festivals.
Autumn (September to November): The changing leaves make it a great time for nature walks.
Winter (December to February): Embrace the quiet and serene landscapes, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Experiencing Drenthe
Things to Do
Cycling: Drenthe is a cycling paradise with an extensive network of cycle paths. Don’t miss the Drenthe 200, a 200-km cycling route passing hunebedden.
Hiking: Explore the picturesque landscapes by hiking through Dwingelderveld or Mantingerveld nature reserves.
Museum Visits: Drenthe has various museums to delve into local history and culture. Besides the Drents Museum, visit the Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork and the Veenpark.
Wildlife Watching: The Drents-Friese Wold National Park is a great place for spotting wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species.
How to Get Around
Cycling: Rent a bicycle for an authentic Drenthe experience or use your own bike if you have one.
Public Transport: Buses and trains are available for traveling within and beyond the province.
Where to Eat
Drenthe offers a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine. Try stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), krentenwegge (currant bread), and the delicious Drentse turf cake.
Famous Street Stalls
While Drenthe may not be particularly known for street stalls, you can find local food markets and stands at fairs and festivals. These are great places to sample regional delicacies.
Finding Your Comfort
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in Drenthe range from cozy bed and breakfasts and rural farm stays to modern hotels in Assen and other towns. Consider staying in a traditional Drentse vakantiehuisje (holiday cottage) for an authentic experience.
Travel Tips
Cycling Maps: Grab a cycling map of Drenthe to make the most of your biking adventures.
Weather Readiness: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities.
Museum Opening Hours: Check the opening hours of museums in advance as they may vary.
Drents Dialect: While Dutch is widely spoken, locals may use the Drents dialect. Learning a few Dutch phrases can be helpful.
Drenthe offers a serene escape into the Dutch countryside, where ancient history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences await. Use this guide to plan your visit to Drenthe and make the most of this enchanting Dutch province.