Erm: Ermerstrand and local history

Erm brings together local history, a landscape between fields and stream valleys, and a recreational area by the water. Ermerstrand lies on the edge of the village; a remnant of a village green is located at the intersection of Oostereind and Oosterlangen. A historical walking route described in 2020 led through Erm and Achterste Erm. Around Ermerzand, the focus is on routes through forests, across open areas, and through nearby villages. If you are looking for a hotel in Erm, these different highlights can help you tailor your stay to your interests: water sports, local history, or walking and cycling.

Landscape and early local history

Erm lies on the edge of the Drenthe Plateau, between two fields and two stream valleys. The settlement developed in the Middle Ages as an esdorp on sandy soil at the edge of the Sleenerstroom stream valley. Thus, its location between fields and stream valleys sits alongside its specific origins at the edge of the Sleenerstroom valley. A remnant of a village green is located at the intersection of Oostereind and Oosterlangen. Its history therefore ranges from an early settlement form to a specific remnant in the village.

Ermerstrand: a recreational area by the water

Ermerstrand lies on the edge of Erm and is an 80-hectare nature and recreational area with about 40 hectares of water. There are large beaches, islands, and extensive sunbathing lawns at and around the large recreational lake. The area’s size gives you a sense of its scale, while waterskiing and wakeboarding are specific activities on offer. Instructors are available to teach participants the techniques. Offerings may change, so check what is currently available before your visit.

Walking and cycling routes around Ermerzand

The Ermerzand area was excavated in 1973. Many walking and cycling routes pass through forests, across open areas, and through nearby villages in the surrounding area. Unlike Ermerstrand, which focuses on water sports, this area offers opportunities to explore several types of landscape. If you enjoy walking or cycling, these routes can form a distinct part of your travel plans. The landscapes mentioned offer a variety of impressions: forests, open areas, and villages.

Historical walking route through Erm and Achterste Erm

The historical walking route described in 2020 led through Erm and Achterste Erm and included approximately 20 selected historical sites in the two villages. Each site had a plaque with a description and photograph. Unlike the single remnant of a village green at the intersection of Oostereind and Oosterlangen, the route brought selected sites in two villages together. This gives you two different ways to explore local history: a specific built remnant and a series of historical stops.

Guidance for planning a walk

Erm is listed as a starting point for the Drenthepad route. Bus route 29, which runs between Emmen and De Kiel, is listed at the starting point. This information may be helpful when planning a walk. Check the current timetable before travelling, as service details may change.

Discover more destinations: Meppen, Dalerpeel, Oosterhesselen, Schoonoord, Wezuperbrug, Coevorden, Noord-Sleen, Wezup

Return to the main travel overview: Coevorden.