The Hondsrug in Drenthe is a unique natural landscape located in the northeast of the country. It's a beautiful natural area that formed approximately 150.000 years ago. Since 2013, the Hondsrug has been a UNESCO Global Geopark. Landscapes with a unique history and cultural value are awarded this status.
The Hondsrug was formed during the Ice Age and forms an elongated sand ridge that runs from Groningen to Emmen. It's immediately apparent that it's a ridge higher than the surrounding landscape. Because of its elevated position, the Hondsrug was an attractive place to live. People didn't have to contend with marshy or wetlands.
Characteristic
Characteristic of this area are the many boulders. These originated in Scandinavia during the Ice Age. In many places, the stones are still visible. During a walk, this makes the geological history tangible for the hiker.
Dolmens
Besides the many boulders, the dolmens are also characteristic of this area. These impressive burial monuments were built 5000 years ago by the inhabitants of Drenthe at the time. The Funnel Beaker people were the people who built the dolmens. They used boulders, some of which weighed as much as 20.000 kilos.
They most likely moved the boulders using tree trunks or wooden rollers, essentially rolling the stones to their desired location. They may also have used large sleds, or the movement may have been carried out in the presence of a large group of people, pushing and pulling together.
Varied landscape
The beauty of this park lies in the diverse landscapes. Forests, heathlands, commons, and stream valleys create a diverse landscape. Due to the varying elevations, the influence of water varies throughout the area. This creates a varied landscape, which is quite unusual. The Hondsrug is a popular area for cycling and hiking. It is 70 kilometers long and approximately 3 kilometers wide.
The ridge is quite narrow; this is due to the continental ice that formed during the penultimate ice age. The highest point is 26,5 meters above sea level. This elevation is located in the southern part of the Hondsrug near the city of Emmen. This area is also known as Haantjeduin.
On average, the Hondsrug has a height of 20 metres.
Dieren
Because the Hondsrug region is so diverse, it's home to a wide variety of animals. Badgers, deer, and pine martens are among the mammals that inhabit this area. Birds such as buzzards, chickadees, and owls have made their home here. A large number of reptiles, including grass snakes, adders, and many salamanders, are also found on the Hondsrug.
Activities
The Hondsrug Geopark is perfect for a long walk or a cycling route. A cycle route can also be easily created by following a junction route. And how about a horseback ride? Special bridle paths have been created for a relaxing hour of horseback riding.
You can truly experience nature by trying to spot certain animals like foxes and birds. Picnicking is possible at designated rest areas, and photographing the landscape and nature is a fantastic activity for enthusiasts. Exploring the heathlands and stream valleys is also a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
