Best attractions and places to see in Boswachterij Exloo include a diverse landscape of dense forests, expansive heathlands, and shifting sand drifts. This region, situated on the Hondsrug in Drenthe, Netherlands, features both natural beauty and historical landmarks. It offers a variety of sites for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in prehistoric history.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Natural Monument
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Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Highlight • Forest
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Highlight • Forest
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Boswachterij Exloo is a vast nature reserve on the Hondsrug, with dense forests, heathlands and sand drifts. This Drenthe landscape offers a network of hiking and cycling trails where nature lovers can enjoy the peace, varied nature and characteristic Scottish Highlanders that graze here. Perfect for an active day outside in a typical Dutch landscape.
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It's definitely even more beautiful when the heather blooms in August/September.
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This dolmen is attributed to the Funnelbeaker culture, the collective name of a number of communities that lived in this area in the New Stone Age. It is perhaps no surprise that the pottery consisted mainly of funnel beakers. Evidence has been found that pottery containing remains of the funeral meal was buried in the grave. The serifs of dozens of pots have been found in the burial vault of dolmen D30, which was located at a depth of one meter.
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Here in front of you you see an oval/round depression in the field. Colloquially, this dry pingo ruin is also called a 'glacier pit'. And that is not without reason. Pingo ruins are the remains of a so-called pingo, a hill that was created by pushing ice during the last ice age (about 20,000 years ago). When this ice melted, a crater filled with water remained, which then became filled with peat. In some places, however, the craters remained dry because the bottom consisted of coarse sand in which water could not remain. The pingo ruin near Ees is such an example.
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Staatsbosbeheer has published many walks. These are often close to each other. By linking them you get nice longer walks. https://kaart.staatsbosbeheer.nl/#/52.16/5.39/3/RABPO
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Boswachterij Exloo is rich in diverse natural landscapes. You can discover the unique Glacier pit Ees, a dry pingo ruin formed during the last ice age. The area also features alternating landscapes of dense forests, expansive heathlands, and shifting sand drifts. Don't miss the Crooked Trees in Stormbos, known for their uniquely shaped appearance.
The region is home to several significant historical sites. A must-see is Dolmen D30, a megalithic tomb from the Funnelbeaker culture where pottery fragments and human remains were found. Other notable landmarks include The Seven Mounds, an ancient burial site, the historical Markesteen (Boundary Stone), the Buinerkeet shelter, and the American Plane Monument commemorating a WWII crash.
Yes, Boswachterij Exloo offers several family-friendly options. Many natural attractions like the Glacier pit Ees and Crooked Trees in Stormbos are suitable for all ages. The extensive network of walking and cycling paths is perfect for family outings, and children might enjoy spotting the Scottish Highlanders grazing in the heathlands.
Yes, Boswachterij Exloo is dog-friendly. There are several large off-leash areas where dogs can roam freely, provided they are well-behaved and do not disturb wildlife. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near grazing animals or in areas with sensitive wildlife.
Boswachterij Exloo boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes. Popular options include the 'Knopenrondje Exloo' and the 'Monumentenroute.' For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore guides like the Attractions and Places To See in Boswachterij Exloo guide on komoot.
Absolutely. The gently rolling landscape of Boswachterij Exloo is ideal for cycling. You'll find numerous cycling paths, including routes like the 'Knopenrondje Exloo' and the 'Monumentenroute.' For specific gravel biking, road cycling, or mountain biking routes, check out komoot's dedicated guides such as Gravel biking in Boswachterij Exloo, Road Cycling Routes in Boswachterij Exloo, and MTB Trails in Boswachterij Exloo.
Boswachterij Exloo is beautiful year-round, but many visitors find late summer (August/September) particularly appealing when the heather blooms, adding vibrant purple hues to the landscape. This is especially true for areas around the Glacier pit Ees. Autumn also offers stunning scenery with changing leaf colors in the forests.
The village of Exloo itself is charming and worth exploring. It features old oak and linden trees framing its edges and a traditional sheepfold. Each morning, a shepherd leads a flock of Drenthe heath sheep to the Molenveld, a unique local tradition to observe.
Yes, you can find spots to rest. The Oude Schaapskooi (Old Sheepfold) is an ideal spot for taking a break or having a picnic. While there might not be many formal dining options directly within the forestry, the nearby village of Exloo offers cafes and restaurants.
Parking is generally available at various entry points to the forestry. For instance, Dolmen D30 is easily accessible by car, with parking nearby. Look for designated parking areas at trailheads or near major attractions.
Yes, one of the characteristic sights in Boswachterij Exloo is the presence of Scottish Highlanders. These distinctive cattle graze in the area, contributing to the natural charm and helping maintain the heathlands. Keep an eye out for them during your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the varied nature, from dense forests to open heathlands and sand drifts, and the extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. The historical significance of sites like Dolmen D30 and the unique geological formation of the Glacier pit Ees are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity for active recreation in a beautiful Dutch landscape.


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