Zuidwolde: Discover Nature and Culture

Zuidwolde is an esdorp (a village on a sandy ridge) situated on a ridge formed during the penultimate ice age. Nature and culture offer different ways to experience a stay here: from small-scale landscapes and hiking and cycling routes to the mill, church and events. You can tailor your trip to your interests, whether you prefer exploring outdoors, planning a cycling route or learning about the village’s history.

Landscape and Nature

On Zuidwolde’s ridge, the Esbosjes form a varied landscape of old woodland, hedgerows, rows of trees, herb-rich fields and nutrient-poor grassland. Stages 6 and 7 of the long-distance hiking trail “Loop van de Reest” run alongside and through the Esbosjes. For those interested in a long-distance hike, this offers a direct connection between the landscape and the route. A distinctive butterfly species has also been observed in the Esbosjes; this was the only place it occurred in Drenthe.

Southeast of Zuidwolde lies the Zwarte Gat and De Slagen heathland, with a large peat lake. The Reestdal around Zuidwolde includes estates, heathland, forests, grassland in the stream valley and farms along the Reest River. These areas showcase different landscapes: the peat lake in the heathland at Zwarte Gat and De Slagen, and the combination of stream valley, river and farms in the Reestdal.

Hiking and Cycling

The Vlinderommetje Zuidwolde is a 10-kilometre circular walking route around Zuidwolde. The route focuses on butterflies, dragonflies and other insects; wild plants and birds can also be seen along the way. Wooden posts bearing the yellow route logo mark the trail, and information boards regularly highlight local sights. The route is partly suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs; in some places, the path has been adapted. The starting point is a few minutes’ walk from the Molenweg bus stop. Check current bus services before travelling.

To compare cycling and walking routes by distance, you can contrast the 10-kilometre Vlinderommetje with the 70-kilometre Wiede Wold Fietsroute. The latter follows the cycling network’s junction system and can be split into two shorter circular routes. The starting and finishing point for Randje Drenthe Route 4 Zuidwolde is clearly specified: Cafetaria Het Busstation in the centre of Zuidwolde. Check the latest route information before setting out.

Culture and History

The Meule van Wassens, formerly De Vlijt, was dismantled by millwright C.H. Schiller from Dalfsen, shipped to Zuidwolde and rebuilt there in 1878 on a mill mound as a post mill for grinding grain. The present-day Hervormde kerk on Hoofdstraat was completed in 1823. Museum de Wemme presents a new selection from its collection each year. The collection currently includes 54 historic handcarts.

The Vlindertuin in Zuidwolde was established in 1998 as part of the VLINDER-2000 project. It aims to inform residents and visitors about insects, especially butterflies. The garden offers a distinct focus alongside wildlife watching on the Vlinderommetje: here, the emphasis is on information about insects.

Events and Regional Products

During the Reestdaltocht, dozens of authentic horse-drawn carriages and wagons travel through Zuidwolde and the surrounding area. There is also a theatre hollow in the surrounding area, located in the middle of Faliebergbos at the foot of the hill, where free outdoor performances are held. If you plan to attend the Reestdaltocht or a performance, check the latest dates.

De Boerenstreek in Zuidwolde sells regional products from short supply chains. Its range includes cheese and dairy products, fruit and vegetables, eggs, nuts, honey, rapeseed oil, and beef, chicken and pork. Check current opening hours and sales information before shopping.

Discover more destinations: Ansen, Echten, Ruinen, Drogteropslagen, Ruinerwold, Veeningen, Linde, Koekange.

Return to the main travel overview: De Wolden.