Zuideresch, Drouwenerzand and Bosch en Duin Loop

Starting from the edge of Drouwen, a small village in the province of Drenthe, the Zuideresch, Drouwenerzand and Bosch en Duin Loop offers a gentle 11 km (about 6.8 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near the main entrance of Drouwenerzand, a well-known nature reserve, and is easily reached by car via the N34 road, with parking available at the Drouwenerzand parking lot (Gasselterstraat 7, 9533 PC Drouwen). For those using public transport, buses from Assen or Emmen stop at Drouwen, from where it’s a short walk to the trailhead.

Exploring Zuideresch and Drouwenerzand

The route begins by skirting the Zuideresch, a traditional Dutch “es” or communal field, which has been cultivated since medieval times. These raised fields are a testament to centuries-old agricultural practices unique to the region. As you leave the village behind, the landscape opens up into the Drouwenerzand, a striking area of shifting sands, heathland, and scattered pine forests. This nature reserve is one of the largest active sand drifts in the Netherlands, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. At around 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you’ll notice the terrain transition from farmland to open heath, dotted with juniper bushes and the occasional grazing sheep.

Nature, Wildlife, and Landmarks

Drouwenerzand is renowned for its biodiversity. In spring and summer, the heath erupts in purple and pink hues, attracting butterflies and bees. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for woodlarks, tree pipits, and the rare nightjar, especially in the early morning or late evening. The sandy expanses are also home to sand lizards and, with luck, you might spot roe deer at the forest’s edge.

At approximately 5 km (3.1 miles), the trail passes close to the Hunebed D19 and D20, two of the region’s famous megalithic tombs. These ancient dolmens, built over 5,000 years ago by the Funnelbeaker culture, are among the best-preserved in Drenthe and offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life. Interpretive signs provide historical context, making this a perfect spot for a short break.

Bosch en Duin and Return

The loop continues into the Bosch en Duin area, a tranquil woodland popular with local walkers and cyclists. The forest paths are soft underfoot, shaded by tall pines and oaks, and in autumn, the ground is carpeted with mushrooms and fallen leaves. This section, from about 7 km (4.3 miles) to 10 km (6.2 miles), is especially peaceful and offers several benches for rest or a picnic.

Navigation is straightforward, with well-marked paths and signposts at key junctions. For those who prefer digital navigation, the entire route is available on HiiKER, which provides offline maps and real-time GPS tracking.

Practical Tips

The trail is mostly flat, with a total elevation gain of less than 10 metres (33 feet), and the sandy sections can be soft after rain, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. There are no significant water crossings or technical challenges. Facilities are limited along the route, but there are cafés and restrooms at the start and end near Drouwen and Bosch en Duin. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash in nature reserve areas to protect wildlife.

This loop is ideal for families, casual walkers, and anyone interested in the unique landscapes and ancient history of Drenthe.