Dwingeloo combines a protected village landscape around the green Brink with the adjacent Dwingelderveld National Park. Woodlands and heathland, a radio telescope and historic buildings offer visitors a range of ways to explore the area. If you are looking for hotels in Dwingeloo, you can first consider whether village history, hiking, cycling or stargazing will be the main focus of your trip.
Village Landscape and Architectural History
Dwingeloo’s protected village landscape is arranged around a green Brink. The Sint Nicolaaskerk has a bulbous tower, known locally as “de Siepel.” Guided tours led by a guide are offered for groups at the church. Arrange access with the church before your arrival and plan your visit accordingly.
Historic names also offer a glimpse into the village’s history: Havezate Westrup was granted Havezate status in 1740 and has since also been known by the names Westrup or Westdorp. The Oldengaerde estate comprises a house, gardens and woodland, all listed as Rijksmonumenten. You can register for a guided tour of the estate; check the available dates when planning your visit.
Radio Telescope and Visitor Information
The Dwingeloo Radio Telescope has a diameter of 25 metres. In August 2009, it was designated a protected Rijksmonument in recognition of its architectural and scientific significance. Advance booking is required for a guided tour, which lasts approximately 40 minutes. Access is via the Muller House, Oude Hoogeveensedijk 6 in Dwingeloo, not via the information boards by the sandy road. Check the booking calendar before your trip.
Heathland, Trails and Nature Watching
Dwingelderveld National Park lies right next to Dwingeloo and covers a large area of woodland and heathland. It is the largest quiet, wet heathland area in Western Europe. At Schaapskooi Achter ’t Zaand, the shepherd takes a flock of Drenthe Heath Sheep into Dwingelderveld every morning. The Noordenveld Family Path is fully paved and suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers. It starts at the Achter ’t Zaand car park managed by Staatsbosbeheer, by the information board.
The stated lengths of two hiking options are similar, but their routes differ: the Telescoop hiking route is 4 kilometres long and passes the radio telescope and Smitsveen. The Dwingeler Ommetje Mars is a signposted 4.9-kilometre circular route around the Brink; the path is not fully paved. It starts at the Sciencehub Dwingeloo at De Brink 5. The nearest bus stop is “Brink” in Dwingeloo. Check current connections and local parking conditions before travelling.
For a longer outing, the 46-kilometre Dwingelderveld Route runs from the Brink through the national park. It is signposted with white hexagonal markers bearing green lettering. Check current route information and markings before setting out. The night sky can also be part of your trip: there is little artificial light in Dwingeloo, making it suitable for stargazing. How clearly the stars are visible depends on the weather and conditions at the time.
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