4.5
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31,569
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896
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Easy hiking trails around Blauwe Meer are characterized by the unique blue-green waters of the lake, which originated from sand extraction. The area is situated within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, featuring diverse landscapes of forests, heathlands, and sand formations. Hikers can expect mostly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, offering accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(44)
275
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
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120
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
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24
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(25)
104
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
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18
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Blauwe Meer recreational lake is located within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, southeast of the village of Hoogersmilde. The lake is surrounded by trees and was created by sand extraction. The founder of the limestone factory chose this location because Hoogersmilde was easily accessible by boat. Moreover, there was no shortage of white sand. Because of the sand extraction, the Blauwe Meer is very deep. There is a small entrance fee for a day of swimming in the Blauwe Meer (members of Natuurmonumenten and children under 4 are free). Please note that cash is not accepted: only with your phone, using a QR code! Dogs are not permitted on the beach.
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This water is breathtakingly beautiful blue, my eyes widened in wonder.
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The Blauwe Meer in the Leggelderveld nature reserve is a deep recreational lake, created by sand extraction. Surrounded by trees, it offers clear water for a refreshing dip. Admission is €3.50 (free for Natuurmonumenten members and children up to 4 years) and payment is only possible via QR code. Enjoy beach food and drinks at the renovated kiosk. Dogs are not allowed.
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Choose a clear day to enjoy the view from this sand quarry.
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Enjoy the view here on the bench
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Nice excavation. Costs a 3.50. Car parking costs 7.50
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Recreational lake Het Blauwe Meer is located within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, south-east of the village of Hoogersmilde. The lake is surrounded by trees and was created by sand-draining activities. The founder of the sand-lime brick factory chose this location because Hoogersmilde was easy to reach by ship. Moreover, there was no shortage of white sand. Due to the sand suction, the Blue Lake is very deep.
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Bring a towel! Bring your swimsuit!
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There are over 500 easy hiking trails around Blauwe Meer, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and durations. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Easy hikes around Blauwe Meer feature mostly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for various fitness levels. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including shaded forest paths, open heathlands within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, and unique sand formations around the lake.
Yes, many easy routes around Blauwe Meer are circular. For example, the Blue Lake – The Blue Lake loop from Achterste Zandduinen is a popular 1.7-mile (2.7 km) option that offers views of the distinctive blue-green lake. Another great choice is the The Blue Lake – Blue Lake loop from Achterste Zandduinen, which is 3.7 miles (5.9 km) and leads through forested areas and along the lake.
The most striking feature is the lake's vibrant blue-green color itself, a result of minerals in the sand. You'll also explore the diverse landscapes of the Leggelderveld nature reserve, which includes forests, heathlands, and unique sand formations. Keep an eye out for fens (peat ponds) and areas where efforts are underway to restore natural habitats for rare plant species.
Yes, the easy hiking trails around Blauwe Meer are generally very suitable for families. The mostly flat terrain and varied scenery, including the unique blue-green lake and surrounding forests, provide an engaging environment for children. Routes like the The Blue Lake – West Shore of Het Blauwe Meer loop from Achterste Zandduinen offer pleasant waterside scenery for a family outing.
Blauwe Meer and the Leggelderveld nature reserve are generally welcoming to dogs, but it's always best to check local signage for specific rules regarding leashes and restricted areas, especially in nature reserves. Many of the forest and heathland paths are ideal for walks with your canine companion.
Yes, there are usually parking facilities available near the main access points to the hiking trails around Blauwe Meer. Specific parking locations can often be found at the start of popular routes, such as those originating from areas like Achterste Zandduinen or Geeuwenbrug.
Blauwe Meer offers a pleasant hiking experience throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful colors in the forests and heathlands. Summer is also popular, especially for enjoying the lake views, while winter can offer a tranquil, peaceful atmosphere, though some paths might be muddy.
While the main trails around the lake can be popular, exploring some of the paths deeper into the Leggelderveld nature reserve, away from the immediate lakeside, can offer a more secluded experience. Routes like the Leggelderveld Boardwalk Trail – West Shore of Het Blauwe Meer loop from Geeuwenbrug might provide a quieter alternative.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique blue-green color of the lake, the tranquility of the surrounding forests and heathlands, and the accessibility of the well-maintained, mostly flat paths.
While the immediate area around Blauwe Meer is focused on nature, you can find amenities in nearby villages. It's advisable to check for specific cafes or facilities before your hike, especially if you plan a longer outing.
The Blauwe Meer is known for its distinctive blue-green waters and is a popular spot for recreation. While swimming is a common activity, always observe local regulations and safety guidelines regarding designated swimming areas and water quality before entering the lake.
Many of the circular routes around the lake provide excellent panoramic views. The The Blue Lake – West Shore of Het Blauwe Meer loop from Achterste Plas, for instance, offers diverse perspectives as it follows the lake's perimeter, allowing you to appreciate its unique color from various angles.


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