Best attractions and places to see around Smallingerland, a municipality in the province of Friesland, Netherlands, offers a diverse range of experiences. The region features expansive natural landscapes, including De Alde Feanen National Park and distinctive peat bog areas. Culturally, Smallingerland is home to significant institutions like Museum Dr8888, known for 20th-century visual arts, and various historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The ferry departs from the Warten marina and crosses the Princess Margriet Canal. It's a very pleasant, approximately 10-minute journey.
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The bascule bridge in Warten crosses the Wartenster Wiid on the way to the marina.
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Opposite the church at By Boellies you can enjoy a drink in the sun.
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The white mar. Here is also the ice rink. Beautiful location with information board is present.
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Take a walk on the water and enjoy the nature around you.
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The Freulevijver, located in the Oude Bos between Wijnjewoude and Bakkeveen, is an idyllic and historic place. The forest was created around 1880 by the noble family Lycklama à Nijeholt as a private park and production forest. The pond was created by a dike breach of the nearby Koningdiep, and was enlarged around 1900 by Jonkvrouw Eritia Lycklama à Nijeholt. Although the original tea house and boathouse have disappeared, the location remains a beautiful spot for a picnic, with a natural gazebo that is reminiscent of the former charm of the place.
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Lovely place to rest for a while, especially when the rhododendron is in bloom
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Smallingerland offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Freulevijver, an idyllic old pingo ruin bordered by trees, perfect for a picnic. The region is also home to De Alde Feanen National Park, known for its expansive natural scenery and diverse ecosystems, ideal for hiking and cycling. Don't miss the Boardwalk at De Wite Mar, recognized as a beautiful natural ice rink in the Netherlands.
Yes, Smallingerland has a rich history. Explore the village of Warten with its historical Warten Canal and Drawbridge, and see the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1780. You can also find the Oud Friese Greidboerderij, an old Frisian longhouse farm from around 1728, still in its original condition. For a unique historical perspective, visit Coopersburg Akkrum, a former retirement home with a fascinating story.
Families can enjoy several attractions. Kinderboerderij de Naturij is a children's farm with a large lawn and modern play facilities. The renovated Swimming Pool De Welle offers recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Solar Ferry De Oerhaal provides a fun and scenic short boat trip between Warten and Earnewâld, which is popular with families.
Smallingerland is excellent for outdoor activities. You'll find numerous cycling and walking routes that allow you to explore diverse landscapes, from forests to watery nature reserves. For hiking, consider routes like the Kraanlannen loop or the View of the Alde Feanen loop. Cyclists can explore routes such as the Northern Frisian Woods Loop or the De Alde Feanen National Park loop. You can find more detailed routes for hiking at Hiking around Smallingerland and for cycling at Road Cycling Routes around Smallingerland.
Beyond the well-known spots, Smallingerland holds some unique places. The typical peat bog landscape, a remnant of historical peat exploitation, can still be observed near Drachtstercompagnie, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The Boardwalk at De Wite Mar, while popular, is a truly unique natural ice rink in winter and a serene walk year-round.
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Smallingerland, with pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural parks. During late spring, the rhododendrons around Freulevijver bloom, creating a beautiful spectacle. Winter offers a unique experience, especially at De Wite Mar, which transforms into a natural ice rink.
Yes, some attractions in Smallingerland are noted for their accessibility. The Warten Canal and Drawbridge is listed as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, Coopersburg Akkrum is also noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to explore its historical significance.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences Smallingerland offers. Many enjoy the peaceful walks, such as the lovely, not-too-long stroll along the Boardwalk at De Wite Mar. The scenic beauty of places like Freulevijver, especially when the rhododendrons are in bloom, is highly valued. The historical charm of villages like Warten and the unique story of Coopersburg Akkrum also receive positive feedback.
Absolutely. Smallingerland is situated in the province of Friesland and offers quintessential Frisian landscapes. You can observe the typical peat bog landscape, particularly near Drachtstercompagnie, which is characteristic of the region's history. The presence of the Oud Friese Greidboerderij, a traditional longhouse farm, further immerses visitors in the local heritage and agricultural past.
Smallingerland features interesting architectural sites, particularly in Drachten. The Van Doesburg-Rinsma House is a notable 'De Stijl' residence, characterized by its distinctive use of primary colors. Additionally, the municipality boasts 68 municipal monuments and 67 entries in the national monument register, including many in Drachten, Oudega, and Rottevalle, showcasing a rich architectural heritage.
Museum Dr8888 is a significant cultural institution in Smallingerland. Housed in a former monastery, it has a national reputation for 20th-century visual arts, focusing on Dada and De Stijl movements. It also serves as a cultural-historical center for Smallingerland. For performing arts, Schouwburg De Lawei in Drachten is the main cultural venue, offering a wide array of performances.
Smallingerland, with its connection to the Frisian water landscape, offers several water-related sights. The Warten Canal and Drawbridge is a historical point of interest in the canal village of Warten. The Drachtstervaart Canal is historically significant for its role in peat exploitation and Drachten's development. You can also take a scenic ride on the Solar Ferry De Oerhaal across the water.


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