The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Blauwe Meer
4.4
(6577)
33,791
hikers
181
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Blauwe Meer are set within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, characterized by a mix of forests, heathlands, and open sandy stretches. The central feature is the Blauwe Meer itself, an artificial lake known for its distinctive blue-green water. This area offers varied terrain for hikers, with efforts to restore fens and develop diverse vegetation. The landscape provides a natural setting for exploring Drenthe's outdoor environment.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Blauwe Meer
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Bench Near the Radio Telescope – Dwingeloo Radio Telescope loop from Dwingeloo, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This easy route features gentle elevation changes through the natural landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Forest Pub – De Bospub loop from Dwingeloo, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This route offers a pleasant walk through forested sections.
- Local hikers also love the Boardwalk at Dwingelderveld – The Forest Pub loop from Dwingeloo, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 43 minutes.
- Hiking around Blauwe Meer is defined by diverse forests, expansive heathlands, and the unique blue-green lake. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate treks.
- The routes in Blauwe Meer are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5,400 reviews. More than 32,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Blauwe Meer's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
4.5
(31)
133
hikers
7.65km
01:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(8)
42
hikers
5.26km
01:20
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.40km
01:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great lunch spot. Enjoyed sitting on the terrace.
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D52 is a medium-sized dolmen consisting of six capstones, three of which rest on, and 3 between, the fourteen side stones. Furthermore, there are two closing stones and one portal stone. The position of the other portal stone is marked with a lead seal. One capstone is missing. During the inventory by Van Giffen in 1918, the dolmen was described as being "in a completely dilapidated state". The stones lying scattered here and there no longer deserved the name dolmen. Under his leadership, the dolmen was thoroughly restored in 1953/54, during which most of the side stones had to be re-erected and secured. Archaeologists today believe that Van Giffen went too far in his restoration zeal. For example, he could no longer determine the function of six stones himself, and even the original number of capstones was unknown to him. Nevertheless, there is now a virtually complete dolmen again. However, it is more the result of guesswork than of a responsible restoration. In November 2008, 3 capstones were defaced with blue paint. The damage was repaired as well as possible shortly thereafter. In early April 2011, a fire was lit in the burial chamber, causing a large crack in one of the supporting stones. This will be repaired as soon as possible.
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Landhotel Diever is also located here for a delicious lunch on the way
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Open sandy plain and sandy hills through the pine forest. Nice challenging piece!
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Almost deserted at the end of August
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The dolmen is 14.5 meters long and 4.8 meters wide. In November 2008, three capstones were defaced with blue paint, and in the spring of 2011, the dolmen was damaged by a fire, causing a large crack in one of the supporting stones. source: nl.wikipedia.org
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Blauwe Meer?
There are over 160 dog-friendly hiking trails around Blauwe Meer, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate treks, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in the Blauwe Meer area?
The trails around Blauwe Meer, particularly within the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve, offer diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of forests, expansive heathlands, and sandy stretches. The unique blue-green water of the lake itself is often a scenic highlight along many paths.
Are there easy dog-friendly routes suitable for beginners or families with dogs?
Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails around Blauwe Meer are considered easy and are perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the route "Bench Near the Radio Telescope – Dwingeloo Radio Telescope loop from Dwingeloo" is an easy 6.6 km hike, offering a pleasant experience for all.
Are there circular dog walks available around Blauwe Meer?
Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is "The Forest Pub – De Bospub loop from Dwingeloo", which is an easy 4.8 km circular hike.
Where can I park when hiking with my dog near Blauwe Meer?
Parking facilities are generally available near the starting points of many trails around Blauwe Meer and within the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve. Specific parking information is usually detailed on individual route pages on komoot, helping you plan your visit.
What is the best time of year to hike with a dog in Blauwe Meer?
The Blauwe Meer area is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is popular for combining hikes with swimming in the lake. Winter walks can be serene, but always check local conditions and opening times for facilities.
Are there any specific rules for dogs in the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve?
When hiking with your dog in the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve, it's generally required to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and other visitors. Always respect local signage and regulations to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the dog-friendly trails around Blauwe Meer?
The dog-friendly trails around Blauwe Meer are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse forests, expansive heathlands, and the unique blue-green lake, making it a favorite for walks with dogs.
Are there longer or more challenging dog-friendly routes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are moderate dog-friendly routes available. For example, the "Boardwalk at Dwingelderveld – The Forest Pub loop from Dwingeloo" is a moderate 10.7 km hike, offering a more extended exploration of the area's natural beauty.
Can I find dog-friendly cafes or accommodation near Blauwe Meer?
The towns of Dwingeloo and Hoogersmilde, located near Blauwe Meer and the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve, offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Many establishments in these areas are accustomed to hikers and their dogs, but it's always a good idea to check in advance.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on dog-friendly hikes?
Beyond the striking blue-green water of Blauwe Meer itself, you'll encounter diverse landscapes within the Leggelderveld Nature Reserve, including restored fens and varied heath vegetation. Some routes, like "Dwingelderveld National Park – Dwingeloo Radio Telescope loop from Dwingeloo", also pass by interesting points such as the Dwingeloo Radio Telescope.
Most popular routes around Blauwe Meer
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