Top 20 Natural Monuments in Drenthe

Drenthe is renowned for its diverse natural features. You can discover the vast wet heathlands of Dwingelderveld National Park, the ancient stream valley system of Drentsche Aa National Park, and the unique geological formations of the De Hondsrug UNESCO Global Geopark. The region also features dense forests, sand drifts, and pristine peat bogs, offering a rich variety of landscapes.

Drenthe is famous for its prehistoric hunebedden. Many are concentrated along the 'Hunebed Highway' (N34). Notable examples include Dolmen D53, the third largest in the Netherlands, and the nearby Dolmen D54, both situated in the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve. You can also visit Dolmen D10, Gasteren, which provides insight into the Funnelbeaker culture.

Yes, many natural monuments in Drenthe are suitable for families. The areas around hunebedden like Dolmen D53 and Dolmen D54 are easily accessible. For recreation, The New Heavenly Realm and Blauwe Meer offer clear blue waters and sandy beaches perfect for swimming and relaxation. National parks like Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold also have numerous easy trails for all ages.

The best time to visit Drenthe's natural monuments largely depends on your interests. Late August to mid-September is particularly stunning when the heather blooms vibrant purple across areas like Balloërveld and Dwingelderveld. Spring offers lush greenery and birdwatching opportunities, while summer is ideal for swimming at lakes like Blauwe Meer. Autumn provides beautiful fall foliage in the forests.

Absolutely. Drenthe is a fantastic cycling destination. You can explore the well-preserved bog area of Fochteloërveen on dedicated cycle routes. National parks like Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold also feature extensive cycling networks. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails, including those in the Drentsche Aa National Park. You can find more cycling routes in our MTB Trails in Drenthe guide.

Drenthe offers excellent options for hiking and running. The Drentsche Aa National Park features well-preserved stream valleys and trails through forests and heathlands, such as the Gasterse Duinen and Oudemolensche Diep Trail. Dwingelderveld National Park is perfect for longer walks across its vast heathlands. For more detailed routes, check out our Hiking in Drenthe guide and Running Trails in Drenthe guide.

Yes, Drenthe has several beautiful spots for wild swimming. The New Heavenly Realm and Blauwe Meer are popular swimming lakes known for their strikingly clear blue waters and sandy beaches. Another option is Ieberenplas, which also offers a refreshing swim amidst nature.

Beyond the ancient hunebedden, Drenthe holds other historical significance. In the Holtingerveld Nature Reserve, you can find the Bomb Craters on the Havelteberg, remnants from Allied bombings during WWII. This area, part of a primeval landscape, also features burial mounds, adding to its archaeological interest.

Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty of Drenthe's landscapes. The ancient hunebedden, like Dolmen D53, are often highlighted for their historical significance and atmospheric settings. The clear waters of lakes like The New Heavenly Realm are popular for relaxation, while the extensive heathlands and forests are cherished for hiking and cycling.

Yes, Drenthe's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. Dwingelderveld National Park, as the largest wet heathland in Western Europe, is an excellent destination for birdwatching. The Drentsche Aa National Park is home to the rare wild white lady's slipper orchid. The well-preserved bog area of Fochteloërveen also offers opportunities to observe unique bog wildlife and birds.

Yes, Drenthe offers several scenic viewpoints. The Bosberg Tower in Appelscha, located within Drents-Friese Wold National Park, provides panoramic views over the forests and heathlands. The Holtveen Bird Hide offers a quiet spot to observe wetland birds. Additionally, the Col du VAM, while man-made, provides the highest point in Drenthe with expansive views.