The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Drouwenerveld
4.5
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5,942
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109
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Family friendly hiking trails in Drouwenerveld traverse a unique landscape characterized by shifting sands, expansive heathlands, and diverse forests. This area, part of the Drouwenerzand nature reserve, features dynamic sand drifts and is home to Drenthe heath sheep. The terrain offers varied environments for hiking, from open sandy plains to wooded sections, with minimal elevation changes.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Drouwenerveld
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Hunebed D26 Drouwenerveld – Beautiful hiking trail loop from…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.8
(146)
849
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(168)
896
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(81)
644
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(87)
368
hikers
11.8km
03:00
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(85)
395
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
In this largest boulder garden in the Netherlands, thousands of Drenthe boulders, large and small, lie next to and mixed together. They were all brought here during the penultimate ice age, about 150,000 years ago. The boulders were donated by the people of Drenthe, making it a garden created by the people of Drenthe. For more, see: https://www.hunebedcentrum.eu/keientuin/
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See: https://www.hunebedcentrum.eu
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Komoot gives the impression that it ends at this pond. However, you can walk around the water to the right (with the forest hut at your back), there is a narrow winding path without markings.
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In Borger, the municipality of Borger-Odoorn has designed a special cycling/walking path from the Buinerbrug to the Hunebedcentrum, which has been given the name Mammoetpad. The path, which is over 800 metres long, forms an alternative route from the long-term parking lot on Buinerstraat to the Hunebedcentrum.
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Here you have to buy tickets for the treetop walk. There are also souvenirs and a small café.
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You can't get to D26 by car and it's not that easy to find. Seen from Drouwen, it's on the other side of the N34. You can get there via a few narrow and poorly paved roads. The last 500 metres have to be done on foot. However, the search is worth it: At the edge of the forest you can see a medium-sized dolmen with five capstones, all neatly in place. The dolmen looks a bit low because the 12 side stones and 2 keystones have almost disappeared under the sand. As a result, it almost seems as if the capstones are resting on the ground. D26 is one of the 14 dolmens where one or more kerbstones can still be found. Here, 13 of the original 27 are still present. The 14 missing ones were marked with plumbs by Van Giffen. The 4 gate pillars that are still present show that this grave had a long entrance. The shape of the original hill is also still clearly visible. This dolmen was thoroughly investigated by archaeologists led by Dr. Jan Albert Bakker of the University of Amsterdam between 1968 and 1970, and not without results: On the cellar floor they found the remains of 160 pots. Furthermore, stone weapons and tools and amber beads. In front of the entrance they found a kind of sacrificial pit with 2 complete earthenware pots. D26 is the last dolmen that was investigated by archaeologists. As for further excavations, they have become very cautious. On the one hand because it is not expected that new excavations will lead to new insights, on the other hand because research inevitably causes destruction of the original situation. Future archaeologists may be able to prevent this with new techniques.
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Treetop trail is definitely fun for children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Drouwenerveld?
Drouwenerveld offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 100 routes suitable for various ages and abilities. More than 60 of these are rated as easy, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Drouwenerveld?
The terrain in Drouwenerveld is wonderfully varied and generally gentle, making it ideal for families. You'll encounter unique shifting sands, expansive heathlands, and peaceful forested areas. The region is known for its relatively flat landscape, with minimal elevation changes, ensuring a comfortable walk for all.
Are there any interesting natural features or landmarks to see along the trails?
Absolutely! Drouwenerveld is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. You can explore the unique shifting sands of the Drouwenerzand nature reserve, which is a designated Geological Monument. Keep an eye out for the Drenthe heath sheep grazing in the heathlands. Historical sites like Hunebed D26 Drouwenerveld are also easily accessible from many routes. Other notable spots include Lunsveen, a tranquil lake, and the ancient Hunebed D19 and D20.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Drouwenerveld?
Drouwenerveld is beautiful year-round, but the heathlands are particularly stunning when they bloom with purple heather in late summer (August to September). Spring brings fresh greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the unique sandy landscapes have a quiet charm. Consider the weather and your family's preferences, but generally, spring, summer, and early autumn are most popular.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Drouwenerveld are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An excellent example is the easy Veen Pond in Drentsche Aa – Stone Bench at Drouwenerveld loop, which is just under 5 km and perfect for a family outing.
Can we bring a stroller on the hiking trails?
While many trails are generally flat, the presence of shifting sands and unpaved paths means that not all routes are ideal for standard strollers. For families with very young children, a sturdy off-road stroller or a baby carrier would be more suitable to navigate the varied terrain, especially in the Drouwenerzand nature reserve itself.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Drouwenerveld?
The komoot community highly rates Drouwenerveld, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the unique and diverse landscapes, especially the shifting sands and heathlands. The tranquility of the area and the chance to spot Drenthe heath sheep are also often highlighted as favorite aspects.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in Drouwenerveld, but specific rules may apply in certain nature reserve areas, especially concerning leash requirements to protect wildlife and grazing sheep. Always look for local signage. It's a good idea to keep your dog on a leash, particularly in areas with livestock or sensitive ecosystems.
Where can we park when visiting Drouwenerveld for a family hike?
There are several parking options available near the trailheads. For instance, if you plan to visit Hunebed D26 Drouwenerveld, you'll find parking nearby. Specific parking areas are often indicated at the start of popular routes, making it convenient for families to access the trails.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the hiking trails?
While the immediate nature reserve is primarily natural, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby villages such as Drouwen and Borger. These offer opportunities for a refreshment or a meal before or after your family hike.
What should we bring for a family hike in Drouwenerveld?
For a comfortable family hike, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sun protection (hats, sunscreen) is important, especially on the open heathlands and sandy areas. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and a small backpack for essentials will be useful. Don't forget a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes!
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