Discover Emmer-Compascuum

If you are looking for a hotel in Emmer-Compascuum, you can plan your trip around the themes that define the place: waterways and peatland, local history or seasonal culture. This can help you decide which experiences you want to focus on during your stay. The places and events below offer specific ways to explore these themes, and vary by subject and season.

Waterways and local development

De Runde is a peatland stream that rises in the Zwarte Meer. Cyclists can follow it to Emmer-Compascuum, where the river continues through the village. De Runde is therefore both part of the landscape and a landmark along a cycling route. Nearby, the Noaberpad lists Schuilmijt as a lookout tower on Stage 6.

The waterways also offer a glimpse into the area's development. The Stads-Compascuumkanaal was dug through the peatland from 1877 onward and connected to the canalised stream De Runde. The Oosterdiep was built as a southern side canal. The village centre developed at the junction of De Runde and the Oosterdiep. Anyone interested in the area's history will find here a link between water engineering and settlement development.

Buildings and local heritage

The Grenszicht windmill was built in 1907 using parts from a polder mill in Oude Pekela that was no longer needed. Since 2002, the mill has housed a museum illustrating life around 1920. In November and December, Grenszicht grinds special blends of four types of grain for spekdikken, kniepertjes and pancakes. The mill's construction history, its portrayal of everyday life around 1920 and the seasonal production of the blends offer different perspectives on the mill.

The Sint Willehaduskerk and the sculpture De Veenvrouw also offer distinct historical reference points. The church was built in 1923 to a design by architect Herman Kroes. De Veenvrouw was installed in 1979 in the square at the junction of De Runde, Hoofdkanaal and Oosterdiep. Together, the church, mill and sculpture showcase different aspects of the area's built and cultural heritage.

Seasonal culture and events

The cultural programme includes exhibitions and outdoor music. A 2026 description of Galerie Beeldbrengers says that exhibitions change every eight weeks. Garden concerts are held in the Hoofdmeesterstuin; during the summer months, the garden is regularly used as an open-air stage for talented musicians. Event dates may change, so check the current programme when planning a specific visit.

Local traditions also follow their own annual rhythm. The Sinterklaas celebration is held in Emmer-Compascuum every year and includes an arrival and a parade; the date and programme vary from year to year. The annual Sint-Maarten evening walk features music and a set route. Residents take the walk together, and the exact date changes each year. Carnival in Emmer-Compascuum is linked to the peatland: peat workers from Germany brought the Catholic faith with them, in which carnival plays an important role.

Swimming and time outdoors

For swimming, the Emmer-Compascuum outdoor pool has four pools and a large play area with football and beach volleyball courts. Opening is seasonal and may vary; check the latest information before your visit. On the north side of the Recreatievijver, there is a swimming area with a beach and sunbathing lawn. The pond is mainly used for fishing. The outdoor pool and the pond therefore differ both in their facilities and in their main use.

Swimming conditions and facilities at the Recreatievijver may change. If you want to swim there, check the current local conditions before your visit. This will help you distinguish between the outdoor pool's four pools and the swimming area at the pond, while also taking account of the relevant seasonal or local notices.

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