Noord-Sleen: Village History and Nature

Noord-Sleen brings together local history, cultural trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. When planning your visit, it is worth keeping the different highlights in mind: the Sleenerzand Forestry encompasses woodland, heathland, large moorland lakes and areas of drifting sand; local trails explore the village’s history. There is also a heated outdoor swimming pool and a gallery. You can tailor your stay to the things that interest you most in Noord-Sleen.

Nature and outdoor activities

Noord-Sleen lies on the edge of the Sleenerzand Forestry, a varied natural area. Woodland alternates with heathland, large moorland lakes and areas of drifting sand. A mountain biking route of more than 30 kilometres runs through the forestry. Its length makes it an option for travellers who would like to include an extended bike ride in their stay. The historic village trails offer a different focus.

For swimming, the heated outdoor Bosbad Noord-Sleen offers another option. It is located in the woodland near Noord-Sleen. Visitors can swim laps, take part in water sports and enjoy a day at the pool with their family. If you plan to visit the outdoor pool, check the operator’s latest seasonal information before travelling.

Village history and historic trails

Noord-Sleen originated in the early Middle Ages as a settlement separated from Sleen. The village still has two brinks along Dorpsstraat. Several Saxon farmhouses stand on Dorpsstraat, as well as on Middelesweg and Zweeloërstraat. These features provide tangible points of reference for the village’s history. A brink is a traditional village green, and is therefore different from a farmhouse.

A circular walking trail around Noord-Sleen combines old photographs with information about the village’s history; it was put together by the Historical Commission. If you would like to make specific plans to see the images and information, check in advance how the accompanying material is available. The “Noord-Sleen, rondje Westenesch” route covers the history of Noord-Sleen and its immediate surroundings. The trails therefore differ in their stated focus: old photographs and local information on the circular walking trail, and the history of the village and its immediate surroundings on the “rondje Westenesch”.

Cultural attractions and planning your visit

The Cultuurpad from Noord-Sleen passes a mill and several casemates. These concrete bunkers are reminders of the Second World War. Alongside village history, the trail therefore also touches on the wartime period.

Galerie23 in Noord-Sleen is open on weekdays, Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m., and by appointment. If you are planning a visit, check the opening hours before travelling. This will help you plan around the stated visiting times.

Discover more destinations: Zweeloo, Wachtum, Dalen, Gees, Wezuperbrug, Oosterhesselen, Zwinderen, Aalden

For the broader travel overview: Coevorden.