Best lakes around Pekela, a municipality in the province of Groningen, Netherlands, offer diverse aquatic experiences. The region features prominent recreational areas like Heeresmeer and Plan Zuid, alongside the historic Pekelder Hoofddiep canal. These water bodies provide opportunities for swimming, walking, cycling, and boating within a green landscape.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
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Blauwestad (German: Blaustadt) is a new residential area in the Dutch region of East Groningen, roughly between the towns of Winschoten, Midwolda, Oostwold, Finsterwolde, and Scheemda. The area belongs to the municipality of Oldambt and is part of the Blauwestad project, which primarily aims to stimulate the economy in the region, which is considered part of East Groningen. The area consists of approximately 1,500 houses with areas ranging from 700 to 7,400 m², spread across five separate residential areas: - De Wei - Het Riet - Het Park - Het Dorp and - Het Wold The houses are generally in the more expensive price ranges. A house in "Het Dorp" costs around €250,000 in the lower price ranges, and in the higher price ranges, where you can find a house with many extras, such as a balcony, the price is around €1,500. B. a private boat parking space directly at the house, around one million euros. The residential area is located on the Oldambtmeer.
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always very nice to drive along there
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The so-called Blauwestad is a new residential area in the Dutch region of Groningen. The town belongs to the municipality of Oldambt and is part of the Blauwestad project, which primarily aims to stimulate the region's economy. The area will consist of approximately 1,500 houses, spread across five separate residential areas: "De Wei," "Het Riet," "Het Park," "Het Dorp," and "Het Wold." The houses are mostly in the more expensive price ranges. In 2005, Queen Beatrix turned on the tap, and around 14 million cubic meters of water formed the more than 8 square kilometer Oldambtmeer. Where the yellow grain once stood, there is now a beautiful lake landscape, and you can enjoy a magnificent and diverse natural area on a hike or bike ride. In sunny weather, the Oldambtmeer is also ideal for a boat trip. The Pieter Smit Bridge, which at 800 meters is the longest bicycle bridge in Europe, crosses the lake.
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What a wonderful place, hopefully the flood has been built safely
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Newly built residential area with lots of water. Almost 1500 houses have been built here. It's worth a look!
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9698 XV Wedde ROUTE At the foothills of the Drenther Hondsrug, near the German border, you will find the family campsite "Wedderbergen". The campsite is located in the 'green heart' of the Westerwolde area (southeast Groningen), surrounded by forests, waterways and a large recreational lake. During the school holidays, the campsite with its varied recreational program is an excellent holiday destination for families with children and teenagers. Outside the holiday season, it is popular with active campers and peace-loving seniors. The campsite is an ideal starting point for cycling, hiking, boat trips, fishing, cultural history, day trips, etc., literally without limits. Wedderbergen is therefore a real family campsite with great comfort, well-maintained sanitary facilities and many sports, play and recreation opportunities, as well as the rental of luxury chalets, camper cabins and tents.
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A beautiful piece of nature
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The lakes and water bodies around Pekela offer diverse recreational opportunities. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing on sandy beaches, walking and cycling along scenic paths, picnicking, and canoeing. Some areas also feature playgrounds for children and are suitable for nature observation.
Yes, there are several walking and hiking opportunities. For instance, Heemtuin & Nature Park Tussen de Venen offers 50 hectares of natural forest and varied landscapes. Additionally, you can find various hiking routes around the region, including easy loops like the 'Scheepsjagers – White Drawbridge Over Canal loop from Oude Pekela' or the 'Water tower of Oude Pekela loop from Oude Pekela'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Pekela guide.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity. Heeresmeer in Nieuwe Pekela features clean swimming zones and wide sandy beaches. Plan Zuid in Oude Pekela also offers two sandy beaches for swimming and relaxation. There is also a Recreational Lake at Camping Wedderbergen which is suitable for swimming.
Several locations are family-friendly. Heeresmeer is ideal, offering sandy beaches, a dedicated playground with equipment, and space for picnics. Heemtuin & Nature Park Tussen de Venen also has a nature playground and a small petting zoo. The Recreational Lake at Camping Wedderbergen is also known as a family campsite with many recreational opportunities.
The region offers diverse natural experiences. Heemtuin & Nature Park Tussen de Venen is a nature development area with ponds and a rich variety of flora and fauna. Heeresmeer is known for its natural beauty and the presence of special birds like the kingfisher and grebe. The dike along Oldambt Lake also offers beautiful natural surroundings.
Yes, the Pekelder Hoofddiep (also known as Pekelderdiep) is a significant historical canal. It was crucial for peat extraction and shipping, and its banks feature monumental buildings and old farms, offering a picturesque route for those interested in the region's history.
Heeresmeer is celebrated for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. It features wide sandy beaches for sunbathing and swimming, walking and cycling paths, a kiosk for refreshments, and a dedicated playground for children. It's also known for hosting the traditional New Year's Dive and attracting nature lovers with its birdlife.
Yes, Oldambt Lake is one of the larger lakes in the Netherlands, spanning approximately 800 hectares. It was created as part of the Blauwestad project and is particularly suitable for open and smaller sailboats and motor yachts.
You can explore The Blue City, an impressive settlement built on water. It features varied architecture and private jetties for boats, offering a unique living environment and an interesting sight to visit.
Absolutely. The area around Pekela is well-suited for cycling. A particularly scenic route is the dike along Oldambt Lake. You can find various cycling routes, including easy ones like 'The Blue City – Pieter Smit Bridge loop from Oude Pekela', on the Cycling around Pekela guide.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Heeresmeer, making it a good option for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure to follow local regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal.
The summer months are ideal for enjoying swimming and water-based activities at spots like Heeresmeer and Plan Zuid. The walking and cycling paths are pleasant throughout spring, summer, and autumn. Heeresmeer is also known for its traditional New Year's Dive, offering a unique winter experience.


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