Top 20 Lakes around De Wolden
Best lakes around De Wolden offer diverse natural landscapes within the Dutch province of Drenthe. The region features a mix of recreational lakes, natural fens, and former sand extraction sites. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, walking, and birdwatching. The natural environment supports a variety of plant and animal life, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.
Best lakes around De Wolden
- The most popular lakes is Dwingelderveld National Park, a national park featuring the…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Dwingelderveld National Park
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Holtveen Bird Hide
Highlight • Structure
The Dwingelerveld offers everything that makes cycling in Drenthe so great: forests, heaths, moors and beautiful cycle paths.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Blue Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Oldemeijer Recreational Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Koninginnepad, Terhorsterzand
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around De Wolden.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around De Wolden
Hunebedden, heath and historic villages – The Drenthepad
The heath in bloom — 10 purple bike rides
Romping in nature – 20 walks around play forests
Reflecting on the paths of the Westerbork Trail
Trail runs for beginners – running off-the-beaten-track in the Netherlands
The True 'Hell of the North' — Drentse Keien Cobbles
Cycling in Drenthe — Holland's primeval region
Hiking around De Wolden
MTB Trails around De Wolden
Road Cycling Routes around De Wolden
Other adventures around De Wolden
Tips from the Community
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.
1
0
Beautiful hiking area. Unfortunately, there are no restaurants or cafes. We walked to the Klashorst nature campsite, which had a cozy nature café.
0
0
See other tips. Especially on sunny days it is good to stay at this recreational lake. And around this lake is a paved path; easy for prams and wheelchairs. We come here to walk in this forest area.
0
0
Great viewpoint The Dwingelerveld offers everything that makes cycling in Drenthe so great: forests, heaths, moors and beautiful cycle paths.
4
0
The Terhorsterzand nature reserve is a lovely nature reserve near Beilen and Spier. Here you'll find forests, heathland, fens, and drifting sands. Juniper grows almost everywhere. Terhorsterzand has several sandy paths and borders Dwingelderveld National Park, making it perfect for long walks. Besides hiking opportunities, you'll also find a shallow recreational lake with a sandy beach in Terhorsterzand. The lake is only one meter deep, making it ideal for (small) children. Tip: The heather is usually in bloom from mid-August to mid-September. Because Terhorsterzand consists of 120 hectares of heathland and fens, it's the perfect place in Drenthe to see the flowering heather during this period. Terhorsterzand is a relatively small nature reserve near Beilen in Drenthe, bordering Dwingelderveld National Park. Before the construction of the A28 motorway in 1970, it was even part of the area. The landscape, with its shifting drifting sands, is one-third forested, but also features remnants of peat pits, juniper scrub, dry and damp heathland, and various fens. Due to the wide variety of landscapes, the area is of great scientific value, and extensive research has been conducted throughout its history. The heathland is grazed by sheep and young cattle and is owned by the Dutch Forestry Commission (Staatsbosbeheer). In the forest, you'll find a shallow forest pond with a sandy beach, ideal for recreation (perhaps with young children). In 1942, the German occupiers built a shooting range with two air raid shelters in the Terhorsterzand. Remnants of the shelters are still visible in the landscape.
0
0
Dwingelderveld National Park consists of forest, heathland and drifting sand. The extensive nature gives a good impression of the old Drenthe esdorp landscape. Near the ash villages you will find authentic ash trees; old fields where mainly grain was grown in the past. The Dwingeloosche Heide and the Kraloërheide together form the largest contiguous wet heathland area in Northwest Europe. Various duck species are seen on the Holtveen and in the area you can find stonechats, among other things.
1
0
The Terhorsterzand is approximately 181 hectares and is located south of Beilen. It is a drifting sand area that has been partly "fixed" because pine trees were planted there in 1900. Most of the hilly terrain (100 hectares) consists of heathland, alternating with fens in the lower parts and juniper thickets on the higher parts.
0
0
Unfortunately in March there are not many birds to see.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly lakes around De Wolden?
Several lakes in the area are great for families. Oldemeijer Recreational Lake offers a natural walking environment with swimming opportunities. Recreatieplas Schoonhoven features a sandy beach, a shallow pool for children, and various sports facilities. De Zwarte Dennen is known for its clean sandy beaches and a small lake perfect for kids, along with shaded picnic spots.
Where can I go swimming near De Wolden?
You have several excellent options for swimming. Recreatieplas Schoonhoven offers a large recreational lake and a smaller, shallower pool. De Zwarte Dennen provides clean sandy beaches and safe swimming zones. Oldemeijer Recreational Lake is also popular for swimming, and Strand Nijstad features a dedicated swimming beach with water play equipment.
Are there any lakes with unique natural features?
Yes, Blue Lake is notable for its distinctive blue water color, caused by local glauconite minerals. It's a deep lake created by sand extraction within the Leggelderveld nature reserve. Dwingelderveld National Park, while not a single lake, features numerous fens and is the largest contiguous wet heathland area in Western Europe, supporting rich biodiversity.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
The lakes around De Wolden offer diverse activities. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at Recreatieplas Schoonhoven. Strand Nijstad provides canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. For those who prefer land-based activities, De Zwarte Dennen has well-marked routes for walking, cycling, and mountain biking. You can also find numerous hiking trails, such as the Dwingelderveld Radio Telescope Loop, and cycling routes like the Pond on the Woldenpad, which are accessible from the area.
Are there good places for birdwatching near the lakes?
Yes, the area is rich in birdlife. Dwingelderveld National Park is home to numerous bird species, including stonechats, curlews, and woodlarks. The Holtveen Bird Hide offers an excellent viewpoint for observing birds in their natural habitat, especially near water.
Which lakes have sandy beaches?
Recreatieplas Schoonhoven features a beautiful sandy beach and sunbathing area. De Zwarte Dennen is known for its clean sandy beaches. Strand Nijstad also boasts a significant swimming beach. Additionally, Koninginnepad, Terhorsterzand has a shallow recreational lake with a sandy beach, ideal for children.
What historical or cultural points of interest are near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or recreational, the surrounding areas have some historical context. Recreatieplas Schoonhoven was developed in an area where the first forests were planted in the early 19th century after peat extraction. At Koninginnepad, Terhorsterzand, you can still find remnants of a shooting range and air raid shelters built by German occupiers in 1942.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, most recreational lakes in the area offer ample parking. Recreatieplas Schoonhoven is easily accessible with plenty of parking for cars and bicycles. De Zwarte Dennen also provides generous parking facilities for visitors.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around De Wolden?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn, for swimming and water-based activities. If you're interested in seeing the heathland in bloom, mid-August to mid-September is ideal, especially around areas like Koninginnepad, Terhorsterzand, which has extensive heathland.
Are there facilities like cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes offer amenities. Recreatieplas Schoonhoven has a beach pavilion with a large terrace. De Zwarte Dennen features a snack stand. Strand Nijstad includes a pavilion with a restaurant and a waterside terrace, providing options for food and drinks.
Can I find accessible options for visitors with mobility needs?
While specific accessibility details vary, Oldemeijer Recreational Lake is noted as wheelchair accessible, suggesting it has features to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.
What makes Strand Nijstad a popular destination?
Strand Nijstad is popular due to its wide range of facilities and activities. This former sand extraction lake offers a swimming beach, water play equipment, a pavilion with a restaurant, a diving school, outdoor fitness, fishing spots, and beach volleyball courts. It's a versatile spot for a beach atmosphere in Drenthe, offering activities like canoeing, SUP, and archery tag.
Most popular routes around De Wolden
Most popular attractions around De Wolden
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around De Wolden? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
