Schoonloo: Hiking, Nature and Swimming Lakes

Hiking and cycling

Schoonloo is an esch village at the highest point of the Rolderrug, a sandy ridge that runs parallel to the Hondsrug. Several routes offer different distances and landscapes to help you plan your trips.

The sixth stage of the Pieterpad is listed as 24 kilometres from Schoonloo to Sleen. It starts at Café Hegeman in Schoonloo and passes through the Boswachterij Schoonloo; red-and-white posts mark the stage. The Wolvenspoor is 7.5 kilometres long and runs through the Hart van Drenthe. Dark forests and heathland, wooden bridges over marsh waters and the stream valley of the Elperstroom define this route. Walking conditions may be less comfortable when it is wet.

The Knapzakroute Schoonloo–Grolloo runs along winding sandy paths and through dense oak groves. Passing centuries-old villages, it offers a glimpse of farming life in the past; along the way, there are wide views over heathland, forest and meandering streams. The Schoonloo cycling route is 13 kilometres long and runs through the Boswachterij Schoonloo. Route details may be revised; check the latest information before setting out. The start arrangements and waymarking for the Pieterpad stage may also change.

The Boswachterij Schoonloo offers quiet open spaces and forests with distinctive plants and animals. With a little luck, you may spot a rare badger there. The route distances give you a concrete basis for comparing options when planning your trips: the two hiking routes with specified distances are 24 and 7.5 kilometres long; the 13-kilometre cycling route is a separate activity.

Swimming spots and recreation

In the Boswachterij Schoonloo, the Speelvijver 't Loomeer recreation area is located on the road from Schoonoord to Schoonloo. The swimming lake covers 7 hectares and is completely surrounded by a sandy beach; there is also a sunbathing lawn. The water is no more than 2 metres deep, and the lake is considered particularly suitable for families with children. The facilities include toilets, picnic areas, ample parking and a bicycle parking area. The kiosk is open on summer days. Check the local swimming conditions before your visit; seasonal facilities may also change.

The Ieberenplas swimming spot is near Schoonloo, in the Boswachterij Grolloo. The lake is no more than 2 metres deep and has a large sandy beach. Walking routes from there lead into the adjoining woodland and nature area. Also nearby, the Zandspeelplaats Grolloo offers opportunities for picnicking and playing in the sand.

Local history and events

Schoonloo originated in the early Middle Ages at the intersection of the Coevorden–Groningen post route and the through road between Schoonoord and Grolloo. The village was first mentioned in 1328 as Sconelo; around 1500, its name was written as Sconloe. The village’s history can therefore be traced through two recorded forms of its name and their dates.

Beachvolleybal Schoonloo organises an annual beach volleyball tournament. Both recreational players and ambitious competitors are welcome.

Finding hotels and planning trips

If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Schoonloo, the range of activities can help shape your itinerary: a longer hiking stage, a shorter route, a cycling trip or a day of swimming.

Discover more destinations: Eext, Eexterzandvoort, Nieuwediep, Balloo, Anderen, Rolde, Gasselte, Gieten

Go to the main travel overview: Aa En Hunze.