Discover Blauwestad: Oldambtmeer, nature and art

Blauwestad is located in an almost 2,000-hectare nature area that includes the Oldambtmeer and existing nature reserves. The Blauwestad project included the creation of a new lake of more than 800 hectares, the Oldambtmeer. As a result, water and natural areas are equally defining features of the area. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you want to focus mainly on the trails, spend time by the water, or include art and event venues.

Nature trails and connections

The 200-hectare Reiderwolde nature reserve lies on the Oldambtmeer. It has cycling, walking and horse-riding trails. The different types of trails give you a clear choice based on your preferred way of getting around: you can explore the area by bike, on foot or on horseback. When planning your outings, this distinction helps you focus on the activity that suits you, without treating the different trail types as interchangeable.

Another landmark is the blue observation platform in Havenkwartier, at Redersplein: the permanent marathon routes start there. The Pieter Smitbrug serves a different purpose as a point of reference. It connects Winschoten directly with Blauwestad and is intended for cyclists and pedestrians. At almost 800 metres long, it is a prominent connection between the two places. The route starts and the bridge therefore provide specific reference points for different plans: a starting point for the marathon routes and a connection for pedestrians and cyclists.

Activities on the Oldambtmeer

DEK Blauwestad offers kayak rentals on the Oldambtmeer. Check the latest operating details before your trip. The water is also relevant for fishing: the Oldambtmeer and the surrounding waterways are considered attractive fishing waters. If you would like to fish, check the local fishing regulations in advance. Kayak rentals and fishing opportunities appeal to different interests; your specific plans depend on which activity you intend to do during your stay.

Art, play and events

The Wilgenborg is a living land art installation on the edge of the Oldambtmeer and a landmark known as the “green cathedral.” It can host large and small events, theatre, storytelling and music. These uses give an idea of the range of events that may be held there; if you want to attend a specific event, check the announced dates.

The Triadeem near Strand Zuid is a play and activity area made of erratic boulders. It is also a landscape artwork by Derk den Boer. The event site at Strand Zuid on the south side of the Oldambtmeer is suitable for events such as concerts and temporary campsites. Elfenbank is a place to spend time that occasionally serves as an event venue. In Reiderwolde, the theatre can be used for performances, excursions and lessons; use is by arrangement. These places differ in their stated function: artwork, place to spend time, event space or theatre.

Blauwestad as a starting point for your hotel search

When searching for a hotel in Blauwestad, you can first organise your plans: are nature trails in Reiderwolde, water activities on the Oldambtmeer, art venues or the connection to Winschoten your priority? The area's features offer different points of reference without all describing the same kind of stay. If you are considering a specific hotel, compare its location with your plans. This way, your choice is guided by the places and activities that actually matter for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Nieuweschans, Midwolda, Westerlee, Finsterwolde, Winschoten, Scheemda, Oudezijl, Nieuw Scheemda

For the overall travel overview: Oldambt.