Top 20 Lakes around Hoogezand-Sappemeer
Best lakes around Hoogezand-Sappemeer, now part of Midden-Groningen, offer diverse recreational activities and natural landscapes. The region is home to notable lakes such as the Schildmeer and the Zuidlaardermeer. These bodies of water provide opportunities for water sports, nature observation, and relaxation. The area features a mix of open water, marshlands, and nature reserves.
Best lakes around Hoogezand-Sappemeer
- The most popular lakes highlight is Boardwalk Over Dannemeer, a boardwalk that stretches over the water, offering a unique walking experience.…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
The Helper Windmill
Highlight • Monument
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Boardwalk Over Dannemeer
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Meerwijck Beach
Highlight • Beach
Didn't bring swimwear? You can also get a refreshing drink at Beach Club Vifero. View the opening hours for the high and low season at: beachclubvifero.nl/openingstijden
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Heemtuin & Nature Park Tussen de Venen
Highlight • Natural
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Lake in Appelbergen
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Hoogezand-Sappemeer
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Tips from the Community
The national monument De Helper is a polder mill on the eastern shore of the Paterswoldsemeer lake in the municipality of Haren, province of Groningen, in the hamlet of Nijveensterkolk. Here you can enjoy a lovely walk along the Paterswoldse Meer.
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Nice place to go 1/2 hour before sunset! Lots of birds to spot, geese, but also a crane seen. Exciting boardwalk with one-way traffic.
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Beautiful view in beautiful surroundings.
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A refreshing place to take a dip in the Zuidelaardermeer. Didn't bring swimwear? You can also get a refreshing drink at Beach Club Vifero. View the opening hours for the high and low season at: https://beachclubvifero.nl/openingstijden/
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The Helper Mill is named after the Helpman polder that he drained from 1863. In the 1960s the mill was out of use and fell into disrepair. In 1971 it was moved to its current location on the Paterswoldsemeer. The mill is now used for drainage for water circulation of the ditches next to the lake. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the view over the lake on one of the benches on a sunny day.
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Groningen people pronounce the name Appelbergen with the emphasis on the è, so like the word appel, in the legal/military sense. Originally, the name was pronounced with an emphasis on the a, so as the word apple (= fruit), where apple refers to pine cones. These apples used to be used as fuel for cooking and heating. The shift in sound is the result of the forest being used as a training ground for years. The pronunciation, intended as a joke, has become so common that many Groningen residents correct those who pronounce the name “incorrectly”. The name explanation, which goes back to 1672, is perhaps the nicest. In that year, France, England, the Bishop of Cologne and the Prince Bishop of Münster, Berend van Galen (Bommen Berend), jointly declared war on the Republic of the Netherlands. In the Northern Netherlands, mainly troops from Münster and Cologne performed. In July 1672, the invading troops captured a number of East Groningen forts. The Bourtange fortress held up well and remained intact. The attackers moved around it, but had to make a long detour because all the low lands were flooded. The only dry route for men, horsemen and artillery of the German troops ran across the Hondsrug. The armies of Bommen Berend (24,000 men) bivouacked around the current Appèlbergen. According to legend, thousands of soldiers stood at roll call here between the shifting sand hills every morning!
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Nice one-way boardwalk in 't Roegwold. Unfortunately, when I was back on the mainland, I saw a stubborn couple along the way, who walked the boardwalk against the direction of walking. The boardwalk is quite narrow. Halfway along the path is a small island with a bench.
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A beautiful piece of nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes around Hoogezand-Sappemeer are rich in wildlife. At the Zuidlaardermeer, you might spot beavers, Scottish Highlanders, and Konik horses, along with various bird species. The Tetjehorn Nature Reserve at Schildmeer is home to birds like the bittern, bearded tit, and even the sea eagle. The Westerpolder, visible from the Biesterwied Observation Tower, also boasts diverse flora and fauna.
What water sports and activities are popular on the lakes?
The Schildmeer is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), swimming, and sailing. You can even hire SUPs there. The Zuidlaardermeer is popular for boating and offers beautiful sailing routes. For swimming, Meerwijck Beach at Zuidlaardermeer is a refreshing spot.
Are there family-friendly activities or locations around the lakes?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Schildmeer offers a sandy beach and recreational facilities at Steendam. Meerwijck Beach at Zuidlaardermeer is also family-friendly with a beach bar and volleyball field. The Boardwalk Over Dannemeer provides a unique and easy walking experience for all ages.
What unique walking experiences can I find near the lakes?
You can enjoy a unique walk on the Boardwalk Over Dannemeer, a 600-meter path stretching over the water with a resting spot on a small island. At Schildmeer, the Knuppelpad offers a distinctive wooden plank path through the marshy 't Roegwold nature reserve.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes?
Yes, there are cycling paths around the Schildmeer, which are part of the Schildmeer loop and connect to the International Dollard Route. The Biesterwied Observation Tower is also situated along a scenic cycling path between Woudbloem and Kolham. For more options, explore the Cycling around Hoogezand-Sappemeer guide.
What historical or cultural sites can be found near the lakes?
The Helper Windmill, a polder mill on the Paterswoldsemeer, is a notable historical site. Originally built in 1863, it was moved to its current location and is now used for water circulation. The Tetjehorn Nature Reserve at Schildmeer also has a rich history.
What facilities and amenities are available at the lakes?
At Steendam, near the Schildmeer, you'll find recreational facilities including marinas, a sandy beach, restaurants, and campsites. The Zuidlaardermeer features a well-located marina and nearby Camping Meerwijck offers luxury camping options and a swimming pool. Meerwijck Beach also has a beach bar and restaurant.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond water sports, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous running, road cycling, and touring bicycle routes. For example, you can find routes like 'Onlanden Nature Reserve – Meerwijck Beach loop' or 'Foxholstermeer Wetlands – Zuidlaardermeergebied Wetlands loop'. You can explore these and more in the Cycling around Hoogezand-Sappemeer and Running Trails around Hoogezand-Sappemeer guides.
Are there any observation points for scenic views?
Yes, the Biesterwied Observation Tower offers beautiful views over the Westerpolder. Additionally, the Helper Windmill provides a wonderful vantage point to enjoy the view over the Paterswoldsemeer.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Hoogezand-Sappemeer?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse water sports opportunities, the tranquil natural environments, and the well-maintained walking and cycling routes. The unique experience of walking on the Boardwalk Over Dannemeer and the scenic views from the Biesterwied Observation Tower are also highly rated.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the lakes?
While the Schildmeer is suitable for swimming and Meerwijck Beach at Zuidlaardermeer offers a refreshing dip, it's always recommended to check local regulations and water quality advisories for wild swimming in specific, undesignated areas.
Are there any dog-friendly areas or trails near the lakes?
The Lake in Appelbergen is noted as a dog-friendly location, offering beautiful surroundings for walks with your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. During warmer months, they are perfect for water sports and relaxing on beaches. In winter, if the Schildmeer freezes over, it becomes a popular spot for ice skating. The nature reserves offer beautiful walks and wildlife viewing in all seasons.
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