Dwingelderveld National Park

Just under half an hour's drive from Bed & Wijn in IJhorst lies Dwingelderveld National Park, the largest wet heathland in Western Europe. For nature lovers, walkers and cyclists, this Drenthe park is one of the most beautiful destinations in the wider area. Here, vast heathlands, still fens and shady woodlands alternate in a landscape that invites peace and wonder all year round.

Purple heather and sweeping vistas

Here, heathlands, fens and woods stretch out for miles. In late spring and summer the heath turns a beautiful purple, especially in August, and flocks of sheep graze to keep the landscape open. It is a vast, soothing area where you quickly leave the bustle behind and come completely to rest — exactly the silence that makes the Reest valley so special too. The wide skies and the endless horizon give you the feeling of being entirely away from it all.

An area full of fens and sheep flocks

The Dwingelderveld owes its name 'wet heathland' to the many fens and pools hidden among the heather. These water-rich places form an important habitat for special plants, dragonflies and birds. The flocks of sheep that roam here, often with a shepherd and his dogs, keep the heath short and open and are an inseparable part of the picture of this landscape. It is a living example of centuries-old nature management.

Walking and cycling for every level

The park is a paradise for walkers and cyclists, with a fine-meshed network of paths, junctions and viewpoints. At the visitor centres you can find routes for every level, from a short stroll to a sturdy day trek, plus information about the special flora and fauna. Early in the morning or at sunset the atmosphere on the heath is at its most beautiful, when the light falls low across the landscape and the calm feels even deeper.

Rich flora and fauna

The Dwingelderveld is home to surprisingly rich nature. On the heath and around the fens live special birds, butterflies and reptiles, and with a little luck you may see roe deer at the forest edge or a bird of prey circling above the plain. Each season brings its own colours and sounds, from the buzzing of insects in summer to the rustle of the wind across the bare heath in winter.

One of the darkest places in the Netherlands

The Dwingelderveld is also known for its dark night sky and is considered one of the best places in the Netherlands for stargazing. On clear evenings the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye. Therefore, combine a day in the park with a visit to the nearby Planetron and radio telescope in Dwingeloo for a surprising mix of nature and astronomy.

Combine with the surroundings

The Dwingelderveld lies in the middle of a region full of nature. Nearby you will find the Drents-Friese Wold, another large nature area perfectly suited to a second walk or cycling tour. In this way, from IJhorst you can easily discover several Drenthe nature gems in a single stay.

Back to the farm

After a day in the Drenthe countryside, you return to your luxury suite at Bed & Wijn. A moment to unwind with a glass of wine and enjoy the rural calm — that is how your day in nature is made complete. View the suites and plan your stay in the heart of this beautiful natural region via booking.