Drents-Friese Wold National Park

The Drents-Friese Wold is one of the largest continuous woodland and nature areas in the Netherlands, on the border of Drenthe and Friesland. A short drive from Bed & Wijn in IJhorst, you will find a varied landscape here that is perfectly suited to an active day in nature. With its vast forests, purple heathlands and surprising drift sands, this National Park is a true paradise for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.

Woodlands, heath and drift sand

Alongside extensive coniferous and deciduous forests, the Drents-Friese Wold offers heathlands, stream valleys and — as a striking highlight — the drift-sand area of the Aekingerzand, also known as the Bare Dunes. This drift-sand area, with its open plains and viewing tower, feels almost like a desert in the middle of the green and is a beloved spot for a surprising walk. The alternation between dark forest and open sand makes every route fascinating and varied.

The valley of the Vledder Aa

One of the most beautiful spots in the park is the stream valley of the Vledder Aa, where, after years of reclamation, the water is once again allowed to flow freely through the landscape. Through nature restoration, the brook now meanders here as it once did, surrounded by flower-rich grasslands and marshy lowlands. It is a quiet, water-rich part of the park where you can watch nature take its course.

Walking, cycling and horse riding

Walkers, cyclists and riders can set out endlessly here. There are countless signposted routes from short to long, viewpoints and a visitor centre that makes a good starting point. The area is large enough to escape the crowds and truly seek out the silence of nature. Mountain bikers will find separate routes, and those who wish to ride into the forests on horseback can use the special bridle paths.

Rich nature and special wildlife

The Drents-Friese Wold is home to a rich flora and fauna. With a little luck you can spot roe deer, birds of prey and special plants. On the heath and in the open sand areas live species that have become rare elsewhere in the Netherlands. Every season shows the area from a different side, from blooming heather in August to atmospheric mist hanging between the trunks in autumn.

A dark starry sky

Like the nearby Dwingelderveld, the Drents-Friese Wold is one of the dark areas of the Netherlands. On clear evenings the starry sky is beautifully visible here, far from the artificial light of the city. Those who want to extend their day in nature can stay until after sunset for an impressive look upwards among the silent woods.

Combine with the Drenthe surroundings

From the park, more of Drenthe's beauty is within easy reach. You can combine a visit with the nearby Dwingelderveld, with an astronomy outing at the Planetron in Dwingeloo, or with a quiet walk through the Reest valley. In this way you can put together a varied day in which nature and discovery alternate.

A day in nature from IJhorst

From Bed & Wijn the Drents-Friese Wold is reachable in about half an hour to forty-five minutes, a lovely destination for an active day in nature. Put on your walking shoes or hop on your bike, take your time and enjoy the vastness. In the evening you return to your suite for a well-earned glass of wine and the rural calm of the Reest valley. View the suites and plan your nature stay on the border of Drenthe and Friesland via booking.