Top 20 Lakes around Westerveld
Lakes around Westerveld, a municipality in the Dutch province of Drenthe, offer diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by serene natural beauty, including expansive national parks and unique water features. Westerveld provides opportunities for nature observation, hiking, and water-based recreation. Its varied terrain includes forests, heathlands, and fens, contributing to a rich biodiversity.
Best lakes around Westerveld
- The most popular lakes is Blue Lake, a lake known for its intense blue-green, clear water. This artificial sand extraction lake…
Last updated: June 3, 2026
Dwingelderveld National Park
Highlight • Forest
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Holtveen Bird Hide
Highlight • Structure
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Mantingerzand
Highlight • Natural
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Blue Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Grenspoel
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Popular around Westerveld
Tour of Drenthe – In 6 days through the primitive province
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Rural delights in the north – 10 routes around farm shops
Walk under a golden canopy – 10 enchanting autumn walks in the Netherlands
The Netherlands turns purple – 15 walks across the flowering heathlands
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Experience the 2023 Hiking Route of the Year – Stellingenpad Trail
Trail runs for beginners – running off-the-beaten-track in the Netherlands
The True 'Hell of the North' — Drentse Keien Cobbles
Other adventures around Westerveld
Tips from the Community
The Blauwe Meer recreational lake is located within the Leggelderveld nature reserve, southeast of the village of Hoogersmilde. The lake is surrounded by trees and was created by sand extraction. The founder of the limestone factory chose this location because Hoogersmilde was easily accessible by boat. Moreover, there was no shortage of white sand. Because of the sand extraction, the Blauwe Meer is very deep. There is a small entrance fee for a day of swimming in the Blauwe Meer (members of Natuurmonumenten and children under 4 are free). Please note that cash is not accepted: only with your phone, using a QR code! Dogs are not permitted on the beach.
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The Mantingerzand is a vast nature reserve in Drenthe, known for its sand drifts, heathlands and woods.
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Dwingelderveld National Park consists of forest, heathland and drifting sand. The extensive nature gives a good impression of the old Drenthe esdorp landscape. Near the ash villages you will find authentic ash trees; old fields where mainly grain was grown in the past. The Dwingeloosche Heide and the Kraloërheide together form the largest contiguous wet heathland area in Northwest Europe. Various duck species are seen on the Holtveen and in the area you can find stonechats, among other things.
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The Mantingerzand is a beautiful Natura 2000 area, consisting of drifting sand and wet and dry heath and juniper. This landscape is interrupted here and there by small coniferous and deciduous forests. Did you know that the Mantingerzand mainly consists of former agricultural lands? This land is used for the development of new nature.
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Unfortunately in March there are not many birds to see.
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Welcome to the Dwingelderveld National Park! Did you know that this is the largest contiguous wet heathland area in Western Europe? It is actively maintained by no fewer than two flocks of sheep, who ensure that unwanted trees and grasses do not have a chance on the heath. Here, wet heathlands alternate with drier sandy ridges, resulting in a rich variety of plants and animals. In the moist parts, heath, peaty feathers and bell gentian grow, while the drier areas are dotted with common heather and mouse's ear. The humid zones are partly dependent on bubbling groundwater, where the yellow ashy and small lily thrive. It is home to numerous bird species, of which the stonechat, curlew and woodlark are just a few examples of the dozens of species that find their breeding grounds here in the extensive heathland.
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The lake was created in 1905 by sand-suction work by the Albino limestone factory. The water of the lake owes its color to the local glauconite found in the water. This is a mineral with a dark green color. Source: https://www.reisreport.nl/blauw-meer-in-drenthe/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and water features to visit in Westerveld?
The most prominent water feature is the Blauwe Meer, known for its striking blue-green water and sandy beach. Additionally, Dwingelderveld National Park features numerous fens and peat bogs, while Mantingerzand offers small lake features amidst sand drifts and heathlands.
Can I swim in the lakes around Westerveld?
Yes, the Blauwe Meer is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, especially during warm weather. Its clear, natural water provides a refreshing experience. The fens and bogs within Dwingelderveld National Park are generally not for typical recreational swimming, though some small ponds might be suitable for casual dips.
What makes the Blauwe Meer unique?
The Blauwe Meer is renowned for its intense blue-green, crystal-clear water, which gets its color from the mineral glauconite. It's an artificial sand extraction lake, created in 1905, and is surrounded by trees within the Leggelderveld nature reserve.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes in Westerveld?
Absolutely. Dwingelderveld National Park offers extensive hiking opportunities through wet heathlands, forests, and fens. You can find various routes, including those mentioned in the Running Trails around Westerveld guide, such as 'Fens, boardwalks and sheep - National Park Dwingelderveld'.
What kind of nature and wildlife can I expect to see?
Westerveld's lakes and surrounding areas are rich in biodiversity. Dwingelderveld National Park is Western Europe's largest continuous wet heathland, home to rare plants, birds like the stonechat and curlew, and diverse ecosystems. The Holtveen Bird Hide is an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Are the lakes in Westerveld suitable for families?
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. The Blauwe Meer has a sandy beach and a roped-off section for less experienced swimmers. Dwingelderveld National Park also offers family-friendly trails and nature observation opportunities.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes?
At the Blauwe Meer, dogs are generally not permitted on the beach or in the water to maintain cleanliness and safety for swimmers. For other natural areas like Dwingelderveld National Park, specific rules may apply, often requiring dogs to be on a leash.
What facilities are available at the Blauwe Meer?
The Blauwe Meer offers amenities such as a kiosk for snacks and drinks, and public toilets. There is an entrance fee for swimming, which can only be paid via QR code.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Westerveld?
For swimming and sunbathing at the Blauwe Meer, warm summer days are ideal, though it can get busy. Visiting early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds. For nature observation and hiking in areas like Dwingelderveld National Park, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.
What cycling opportunities are there near the lakes?
Westerveld offers excellent cycling. Dwingelderveld National Park has good bike paths, and you can find various routes in the Gravel biking around Westerveld guide, such as 'Dwingelerveld National Park loop from Geeuwenbrug'. There are also MTB Trails available.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and natural areas in Westerveld?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural landscapes, especially the unique blue-green water of the Blauwe Meer and the expansive heathlands of Dwingelderveld National Park. The peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained paths for cycling and hiking, and opportunities for birdwatching are also highly appreciated.
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