Petgatten De Feanhoop lies on the edge of De Alde Feanen National Park. Birdwatching, seasonally accessible hiking trails and distinctive waterworks give a stay several different focal points. For planning, the breeding season and ferry operating schedules are especially important: they determine when certain trails or ferry crossings may be available.
Enjoy nature and explore on foot
At Kraanlânnen, a birdwatching hide overlooks a lake. Visitors can see various waterbirds there throughout the year; the birds that can be spotted naturally vary. The hide offers a different perspective on the landscape from a walk through the wetland.
Several hiking trails pass through Petgatten De Feanhoop and are accessible outside the breeding season. Check seasonal access before setting out. A section of the Bonifatius Kloosterpad also passes through this wetland. De Veenhoop therefore offers both trails through Petgatten and routes with other destinations.
Routes with different features
The hiking route along the Turfroute crosses the Grietman Eco ferry twice. The Bonifatius Kloosterpad section passes through the Petgatten De Feanhoop wetland. Another option is the “Het mooie van De Veenhoop – Drachten” route: it runs through the landscape around De Veenhoop and then through Drachten. The routes therefore differ in whether they involve ferry crossings, pass through the wetland or continue on to Drachten.
There is also a specific starting point for a cycling trip: the cycling route along the Turfroute begins in De Veenhoop at cycle junction 49 and uses a self-service ferry. Check that the ferry is available before setting off. A ferry for cyclists and pedestrians also operates from De Veenhoop from April to October; check the current operating times before your trip.
Finding your way on water and land
TOP De Veenhoop is a tourist hub. You can park your car there or arrive by public transport, then cycle, hike or go boating. Those interested in sailing can find sailing lessons at Zeilschool De Veenhoop.
The different options appeal to different interests: birdwatching and hiking trails lead into nature, while cycling and boating offer other ways to explore the area. When choosing a trip, it is worth checking seasonal access conditions and ferry times against your travel dates.
Windmotor, water management and literature
The De Veenhoop Windmotor was built as a large American-style wind motor and installed in 1926 by a trading company from Rotterdam. It is designated a Rijksmonument. Its wind wheel has a diameter of 11 metres and 30 blades. This gives a precise outline of the wind motor’s history and dimensions.
The Nieuwe Noordergemaal is modelled on a Frisian barn type. Fish can swim freely between the Krûme Gat, the Wilde Mûntsegroppe and the Petgatten De Veenhoop nature area. De Veenhoop thus brings together different aspects of the waterscape: engineering structures, distinctive architecture and the connection between the named waterways and natural areas.
One cultural point of interest is Rink van der Velde’s distinctive Skriuwersarkje. It is located in De Veenhoop and serves as an inspiring retreat where writers can work on books and collections of poetry.
Festivals and event dates
The Veenhoop Festival takes place annually. Check the dates for your travel period. On 20 July 2026, De Veenhoop hosted the SKS-Kampioenschap Skûtsjesilen; this date refers to the 2026 event and does not indicate future dates.
Discover more destinations: De Tike, Oudega Gem Smallingerlnd, Rottevalle, Goëngahuizen, Houtigehage, Drachten, Oudega.
Back to the main travel overview: Smallingerland.
