Drentsche Aa National Park

To explore the Drentse Aa Park area, you really need to take your time. To experience the peace and beauty of this park, a leisurely walk or bike ride through the area is highly recommended. This landscape features the best-preserved stream valley in the Netherlands. The Drentsche Aa River has meandered through it for centuries. The park is located in the north of Drenthe and a short distance from Groningen.

Varied landscape

The landscape is diverse, with well-preserved stream valleys, wet meadows, forests, heathlands, and sand drifts. For nature lovers who want to walk in pristine surroundings, this is the place to be.

Birds

Because this area is so diverse, it's home to many bird species, including the beautiful blue kingfisher. Roe deer and otters are also present in large numbers. And of course, insects and a wealth of rare plants are also present.

Authentic villages

The area around the Drentsche Aa boasts a large number of historic villages built on es-like ridges. Rolde, Balloo, and Anlo are prime examples. Each village has a church and a village green. Many old farmhouses also remain.

The open character of this landscape invites you to walk and cycle.

  • Activities

There will be several fun activities in the park in 2026. Below, we describe when and which activities can be visited.

  • January is a time for photography and much more can be done during this activity called "Strubben in de winter" (Strubben in winter).
  • February is the month that “Lines in the Landscape” can be visited.
  • In March 2026, a number of attractive activities are planned:

March 7: Appelbergen and the Glimmer Esch

March 14: Photograph and more of “Het Groote Zand”.

March 28: A long surprise walk through the heart of Drenthe.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Drentsche Aa National Park located?

The park is located in the north of Drenthe and a little bit in Groningen.

The nature reserve has diverse landscapes. Which landscapes are characteristic of this area?

The landscape has a varied character with well-preserved stream valley landscapes, wet meadows, forests, heathlands and sand drifts.

Which animals can you encounter in the Drentsche Aa park?

There's plenty of wildlife to spot in this area. Many bird species, such as the blue kingfisher, are common here, as are deer and otters.

Which historic villages can you find in this area?

The area around the Drentsche Aa has a large number of historic villages built on es. Rolde, Balloo, and Anlo are examples. Each village has a church and a village green. Many old farmhouses also remain.

🐾 Pets allowed
A Chalet Notaris 4 – Het Grote Zand Estate
E Bungalow 8 – Het Grote Zand Estate
🐾 Pets allowed
C Bungalow 4 Luxe – Het Grote Zand Estate