Top 11 Lakes around Nationaal beek- en esdorpenlandschap Drentsche Aa

For swimming, Lake Gasselterveld is a popular choice with its bright blue water and sandy beach. Adjacent to it, 't Nije Hemelriek is also excellent for families, offering clear water and amenities. Another option is the Tynaarlo Natural Swimming Pond, which has a unique history as a community-owned natural pool.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. 't Nije Hemelriek is known for its white sand, clear water, playground equipment, and a kiosk. Ieberen Pond in the Grolloo forestry has a shallow end suitable for small children and is great for picnics. The Braamsplas (Galgwanderveen) and Pingo Ruin Pond in the Balloërveld are also noted as family-friendly natural spots.

While many swimming lakes prohibit dogs during the swimming season (May 1 – October 1), Ellertshaar's Forest Lake is a notable exception. It features a small sandy beach surrounded by forest and allows dogs even in the summer, making it a great option for pet owners.

The region is known for its unique natural features. You can find pingo ruins, which are deep, round basins formed over 10,000 years ago from melted ice cubes. Examples include the Braamsplas (Galgwanderveen) and the Pingo Ruin Pond in the Balloërveld. The Siepelveen nature reserve also features a unique peat area alternating with sand drifts and beautiful water.

Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical significance. For instance, Kampsheide Burial Mounds and Lake is a historical site featuring heathland, juniper thickets, and over fifty burial mounds, offering a glimpse into ancient landscapes.

The lakes are surrounded by opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can explore extensive cycling routes, including gravel biking and road cycling. For example, there are routes like the 'Balloërveld Heath – Dwingeloo Radio Telescopes loop' for gravel biking or the 'Assen - VAM-berg Loop' for road cycling. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Anloo route through NP Drentsche Aa - Green route'. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking guide, MTB Trails guide, and Road Cycling Routes guide for the region.

Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the lakes, from quiet natural settings to lively family-friendly swimming spots. Many enjoy the clear, often turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and the opportunity for relaxation and picnics. The unique pingo ruins and the blend of heathland, forests, and ancient cultural landscapes also contribute to the appeal.

Yes, for a quieter experience, Ellertshaar's Forest Lake offers a small sandy beach surrounded by forest, providing ample space for picnics and relaxation away from busier spots. Ieberen Pond also offers a natural and often quieter ambiance, especially outside of peak swimming times.

Loomeer is a swimming lake featuring a sandy beach, a gently sloping bottom, and shaded areas, making it very suitable for children. It also includes a toilet block and catering services during the high season, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

Yes, many lakes are integrated into walking routes. For example, the Braamsplas is located on the yellow walking route through the Evertsbos forest. The Kampsheide area offers beautiful forest and heather landscapes with trails around its fen and burial mounds. The Pingo Ruin Pond in the Balloërveld is within a large heathland with old cart tracks, inviting visitors for walks in every season.

The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. For swimming and sunbathing, the summer months are ideal. However, natural spots like the Pingo Ruin Pond in the Balloërveld and Kampsheide are beautiful in every season, offering scenic walks and nature observation opportunities in spring, fall, and even winter.