Best attractions and places to see around Weststellingwerf include tranquil lakes, expansive forests, and picturesque cycling routes. This municipality in the province of Friesland in the northern Netherlands is characterized by its natural beauty and historical sites. The area offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. It provides a peaceful escape with a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Weststellingwerf.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Weststellingwerf
Recharging in Friesland – nature and culture in northern Netherlands
Ten rejuvenating bike rides through Friesland
Peat houses and canals – 5 hikes in the Netherlands
Frisian Forest Trail – walk from the Wadden Sea to Overijssel
Experience the 2023 Hiking Route of the Year – Stellingenpad Trail
Cycling around Weststellingwerf
Hiking around Weststellingwerf
Road Cycling Routes around Weststellingwerf
MTB Trails around Weststellingwerf
Running Trails around Weststellingwerf
The second-largest dolmen in the Netherlands can be found in Havelte. Dolmen D53 is the only dolmen damaged during the war. The German air force wanted to build an airfield at this location, so the stones were moved. The airfield was bombed to pieces, and the dolmen was excavated and reassembled. The dolmen is approximately 18 meters long, almost complete, and lies on the edge of a heathland. Along with dolmens D54 and D52, it is one of the few in this part of Drenthe. Dolmen D54 is slightly smaller than D53. It lies in the middle of a small sandy plain surrounded by grass. It is a beautiful walking area around these dolmens, as the small sandy plain is surrounded by heathland, small forests, and meadows. Dolmen D53 and D54 are a must-see on your dolmen tour because they are complete, well-maintained, and impressive. If you're coming from Havelte, you can follow the main road, which will take you past a side road. If you take this, the dolmen is almost immediately on your left. Continue driving a little further, and you'll find dolmen D54. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/1800662783/hunebed-d53-en-d54-1
1
0
Beautiful harbour town with good restaurants and cafes, a beautiful little harbour that invites you to enjoy the peace and quiet.
4
0
Dolmen D53 is the third largest dolmen in the Netherlands, measuring about 18 meters long. The dolmen is almost complete and is beautifully situated on the edge of the heath. However, it was taken apart by the German air force during the Second World War to make room for an airfield. Fortunately, there were drawings and the dolmen was reassembled after the war. D53 is located next to the smaller dolmen D54.
1
0
Dolmen D53 is the third largest dolmen in the Netherlands, measuring about 18 meters long. The dolmen is almost complete and is located on the edge of a heathland. However, it was taken apart by the German air force during the Second World War to make room for an airfield. Fortunately, there were drawings and the dolmen was reassembled after the war. D53 is located next to the smaller dolmen D54.
1
0
D53 was removed by the Germans during the Second World War and the stones were thrown into a pit. This in the context of the construction of an airport. Thanks to previous research by Professor van Giffen, the dolmen has been replaced. It is said that the dolmen has lost its soul. It is certainly busier around the dolmens at the weekend, but walk further into the grounds and you will hardly encounter anyone.
1
0
Fantastically beautiful route, idyllic bridges. Reminds me of the Spreewald.
3
0
The cycle path is an absolute highlight in the region and should not be missing on any route.
4
0
Weststellingwerf boasts diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the extensive Drents-Friese Wold National Park, one of the largest natural areas in the Netherlands, featuring woodlands, heathlands, and sand dunes. Other notable areas include the tranquil Lindevallei nature reserve with its historical watermills, and the water-rich Rottige Meente & Brandemeer, ideal for birdwatching. The region is also home to quiet lakes and waterways perfect for activities like supping and boating.
Yes, Weststellingwerf offers numerous well-marked routes. The Drents-Friese Wold National Park has varied trails for hiking and cycling, such as the Bosberg Trail and the Aekingerzand Trail. For cyclists, the Kalenberg Canal Route with Bridges provides a scenic journey along canals and past monumental buildings. You can find many more options for cycling, road cycling, and mountain biking in the region.
History enthusiasts can explore Dolmen D53, the third largest dolmen in the Netherlands, beautifully situated next to the smaller Dolmen D54. The region is also dotted with characteristic historical villages like Oldeberkoop, known for its ancient buildings, and Steggerda, which features beautiful old farmhouses.
Many attractions in Weststellingwerf are suitable for families. The charming Lemmer town center and canals offer shopping and boat-watching. The picturesque harbor town of Blokzijl, with its impressive merchant houses and Blokzijl Harbor, is also a great family spot. Additionally, visiting Dolmen D53 provides an interesting historical outing for all ages.
Weststellingwerf is rich in charming villages. Wolvega serves as the administrative center with shops and hospitality. Oldeberkoop is notable for its historical buildings, while Steggerda is a hidden gem with picturesque streets and old farmhouses. Noordwolde is known for its traditional reed weaving. Just outside the municipality, Lemmer offers a lively town center with canals and shopping.
You can witness spectacular horse races at Victoria Park Wolvega, the leading harness racing track in the Netherlands. Explore the traditional craft of reed weaving in Noordwolde, or enjoy water-based activities like supping, boating, and fishing on the region's quiet lakes and waterways.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The picturesque harbor town of Blokzijl is loved for its good restaurants and cafes, inviting peace and quiet. The Kalenberg Canal Route is praised as a dream for cycling along the water. The historical significance of sites like Dolmen D53 also leaves a lasting impression.
Yes, the Rottige Meente & Brandemeer is a water-rich area with reed beds and marsh forests, making it a haven for birdwatchers. This nature reserve offers excellent opportunities to observe various bird species in their natural habitat.
Many villages and towns in Weststellingwerf offer places to eat. Wolvega, as the administrative center, has a lively selection of hospitality options. The harbor town of Blokzijl is known for its good restaurants and cafes. You can also find local cafes and teahouses throughout the region, perfect for enjoying Frisian delicacies during your explorations.
Absolutely. Weststellingwerf is part of the 'green heart of Friesland' and features many water-rich areas. The quiet lakes and diverse waterways provide excellent opportunities for activities such as supping, boating, and fishing. The Lindevallei also offers canoeing options.
Wolvega is the administrative center of Weststellingwerf and offers a lively center with shops and hospitality. It is most notably known for Victoria Park Wolvega, a leading harness racing track where you can experience spectacular horse races. Wolvega also serves as a starting point for various cycling and hiking routes into the surrounding natural areas.
Dolmen D53 is historically significant as the third largest dolmen in the Netherlands, measuring approximately 18 meters long. Although it was dismantled during World War II, it was meticulously reassembled and is beautifully situated on the edge of a heath, next to the smaller Dolmen D54. It offers a tangible connection to ancient history.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: