Glamping rental Drenthe - 1 glamping

Where Silence Speaks Louder Than City Noise

If you crave a holiday destination that remains blissfully free from tourist crowds, Drenthe in the Netherlands might be precisely what you have been searching for. This northeastern province is the least populous region of the Netherlands, with roughly 500,000 inhabitants spread across 2,680 square kilometers of rolling heathlands, ancient forests, and charming villages. Unlike the bustling streets of Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Drenthe offers a tranquil escape where nature takes center stage.

A Province Shaped by Ice and Time

Drenthe sits in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, bordered by Groningen to the north, Friesland to the west, Overijssel to the south, and Germany to the east. The province features an oceanic climate with mild temperatures throughout the year, making it suitable for outdoor activities in every season. What makes this region geologically fascinating is its unique landscape, shaped by glaciers during the ice ages. Rivers flowing underneath the ice created hills and ridges, giving the terrain its distinctive character. About 72% of the land is used for agriculture, but Drenthe also boasts several heathlands and three national parks: Drents-Friese Wold, Dwingelderveld, and Drentsche Aa.

The Hondsrug: A Geological Wonder

The Hondsrug UNESCO Global Geopark is the only geopark in the Netherlands and covers almost the entire eastern part of Drenthe, extending into the province of Groningen. The Hondsrug area is not only a geological unique phenomenon within the Netherlands but also in a European context. This glacial ridge of sand and boulder clay was once surrounded by peat bogs, and for a long time, it was the only place in a wide area where people could safely live and travel. The geopark status was awarded in September 2013, and in November 2015, it received the UNESCO label. The varied landscape includes woods, heathland, and streams that cut through gently sloping fields.

Why Drenthe Makes an Ideal Glamping Destination

Choosing a glamping rental in Drenthe means immersing yourself in one of the most peaceful corners of Western Europe. Here are compelling reasons why this province deserves a spot on your travel list:

• Authentic tranquility: Drenthe is a sparsely populated rural area, unlike many other parts of the Netherlands. You can still walk for hours without seeing a trace of buildings in the national parks.
• Rich in natural beauty: The province has three national parks with varied landscapes including dense forests, heathlands, sand drifts, and marshy areas. The Drents-Friese Wold is one of the largest continuous nature reserves in the Netherlands, covering more than 6,000 hectares.
• Purple heather magic: In August, the heathlands transform into stunning purple carpets that attract visitors from around the world. Watch shepherds guide their traditional Drenthe heath sheep across these ancient landscapes.
• Year-round outdoor activities: Whether you prefer cycling, hiking, or horseback riding, Drenthe offers endless well-marked routes through unspoiled scenery.
• UNESCO World Heritage sites: The province is home to part of the Colonies of Benevolence, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2021. Visit Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord and Veenhuizen to learn about this 19th-century experiment in social reform.

Ancient Stones and Timeless Mysteries

Drenthe holds a secret that predates the Egyptian pyramids. The province contains 52 of the 54 dolmens (hunebedden) found in the Netherlands. These megalithic tombs were built between 3350 and 3030 BC by farmers belonging to the Funnelbeaker Culture. The name hunebedden comes from the Dutch belief that giants (huynen) had made them, though the builders were actually quite short, averaging about 165 cm in height.

These prehistoric burial chambers were constructed using massive boulders, some weighing as much as 20,000 kilograms, transported by glaciers from Scandinavia during the ice ages. The largest dolmen (D27) near Borger measures 22.5 meters long and attracts history enthusiasts from around the globe. You can visit all 52 dolmens in Drenthe for free, as they are scattered throughout the province and open to the public.

Lesser-Known Highlights Worth Your Time

Vincent van Gogh's Forgotten Chapter

In September 1883, Vincent van Gogh arrived in Drenthe seeking solitude and artistic inspiration. He spent almost three months in Hoogeveen, Nieuw-Amsterdam/Veenoord, and Zweeloo. During his stay, Van Gogh painted and drew approximately forty works, with his most famous being the Drawbridge in Nieuw-Amsterdam. The wild, uncultivated landscape left an indelible impression on him. Today, you can follow signposted Van Gogh cycling and walking routes around Emmen, Hoogeveen, and Zweeloo to see where the master found his inspiration.

The Maldives of the Netherlands

At Gasselterveld, you will find a stunning lake with crystal-clear blue water that has earned it the nickname the Maldives of the Netherlands. The white sand, surrounded by deep green forest, creates an almost tropical atmosphere. You can swim, rent a kayak or paddle board, or simply relax on the beach. Several trails allow you to walk around the lake within an hour while enjoying lovely views.

A Prison with a Story

The National Prison Museum in Veenhuizen dives into the unique history of this village, which was founded in 1823 as a forced-labor settlement for beggars and vagrants. It grew into a full-fledged prison village with its own churches, schools, and even its own currency. The museum is housed in one of the original detention buildings and offers fascinating insights into the evolution of punishment and incarceration in the Netherlands from the 17th century to the present.

Top Experiences Beyond the Obvious

1. Walk the treetop path at Boomkroonpad: Near Drouwen, this outdoor center offers a unique perspective on the forest. The treetop path allows you to see the woods from the height of the trees, while children can enjoy climbing and building huts in the dedicated play forest.
2. Join an early bird safari: Book an eco-tour departing at half past five in the morning and experience nature waking up. Travel in an electric off-road vehicle across the heathland as the sun rises, learning about local flora, fauna, and the famous dolmens.
3. Visit the charming village of Orvelte: This car-free village feels almost like an open-air museum. Monumental farmhouses display how locals used to live, and you can try freshly baked Dutch stroopwafels or sample local Drenthe beer brewed from grains harvested from nearby fields.
4. Explore Oud Aalden: Unlike Orvelte, this village is not a museum but a real community with old cottages and traditional gardens. The place is unbearably charming and offers a glimpse into authentic Drenthe life.
5. Discover Blue Lake near Hoogersmilde: Created by sand excavations, this recreational area features water with a striking turquoise tint. It is a lovely place for a short outing, especially on a sunny day, and offers walking, cycling, and swimming opportunities.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Drenthe is easily accessible from major Dutch cities. The provincial capital Assen and the city of Emmen are connected by train from Groningen and Utrecht. The province also has a minor international airport, Groningen Airport Eelde, located in the northern part of Drenthe. However, the best way to explore the region is by bicycle, as the province features an excellent network of cycling routes that guide you along the most scenic spots.

For those who love longer adventures, consider walking the Drenthepad, a long-distance regional trail that makes a large loop through the province, covering more than 300 kilometers in total.

Your Gateway to Dutch Serenity

Book a glamping now and discover why Drenthe has been a beloved holiday destination for Dutch citizens seeking peace and natural beauty. With its ancient monuments, unique geopark, purple heather fields, and charming villages, this province offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the Netherlands. Whether you come for a weekend retreat or an extended stay, Drenthe welcomes you with open arms and endless horizons.