Attractions and Places To See around Westerveld - Top 20

Westerveld is home to significant natural areas, including Dwingelderveld National Park, one of the largest continuous wet heathlands in Northwest Europe, and Drents-Friese Wold National Park, known for its extensive forests and unique 'Kale duinen' (Bald Dunes). Both offer diverse landscapes for exploration.

Yes, a popular option is the Boardwalk Trail in Dwingelderveld National Park. This intermediate 5 km walk features unique plank paths over water, offering a playful experience through the wetter parts of the park. You can find more hiking routes in the area on the Hiking around Westerveld guide.

Westerveld is rich in history. You can explore ancient megalithic tombs known as Hunebedden, such as Dolmen D53, which is the third largest in the Netherlands. The region also features the Koloniën van Weldadigheid (Colonies of Benevolence), a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its story told at the Museum de Proefkolonie in Frederiksoord.

Absolutely. Westerveld is home to several hunebedden. Dolmen D53 is a notable example, measuring about 18 meters long and beautifully situated on the edge of the heath. It's a significant historical and natural monument.

Yes, Westerveld offers several family-friendly options. The Giethoorn Canals and Thatched-Roof Houses provide a picturesque village experience, though it can be busy. The Taman Indonesia Zoo in Wapserveen is another great choice for families. Many trails in the national parks are also suitable for family walks.

Beyond its natural beauty and historical sites, Westerveld features unique points of interest like the Dwingeloo Radio Telescope, an exciting building in a great environment. For stargazing enthusiasts, the Dwingeloo and Dwingelderveld area offers clear views of the night sky.

Visitors particularly enjoy the serene beauty of the natural landscapes, such as the unique plank paths of the Boardwalk Trail in Dwingelderveld National Park. The historical significance of sites like Dolmen D53 also resonates, with many appreciating the sense of history. The picturesque charm of villages like Giethoorn is also a highlight, despite sometimes being crowded.

Yes, for Dwingelderveld National Park, The Boslounge Visitor Center serves as an orientation center. It's a good starting point for walks and offers amenities like a cafe and parking, though it's advisable to check opening hours in advance.

The national parks in Westerveld are rich in biodiversity. In Dwingelderveld National Park, you might spot adders, rare butterflies, roe deer, and various bird species like green woodpeckers and great buzzards. The park's diverse habitats, including fens and peat bogs, support a wide range of flora and fauna.

Westerveld offers excellent cycling opportunities, especially through its national parks and scenic routes. You can explore extensive cycle paths in areas like Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold. For detailed routes, refer to the Cycling around Westerveld guide, which includes routes like 'Dwingelerveld - Drenthe' and 'Dwingeloo Radio Telescope – Dwingelderveld National Park loop'.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Westerveld, offering pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring the national parks. During these seasons, the heathlands are vibrant, and wildlife is more active. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Yes, the village of Diever is famously known as the 'Shakespeare Village' for its open-air theatre where Shakespearean plays are performed. Additionally, the nearby village of Giethoorn, with its canals and thatched-roof houses, offers a unique and picturesque experience, popular for boat tours.