Discover Veendam: culture, trails and water

Veendam offers plenty of ways to enjoy a stay focused on culture, activity and water. When looking for a hotel in Veendam, you can consider which focus best suits your trip: the city’s industrial history, routes through green landscapes, or a visit to the water. These different themes offer varied perspectives on the area.

Industrial history and architecture

Veendam’s industrial history is still evident today in numerous monuments dotted throughout the city. The houses along the Oosterdiep and the stately villas in the centre also reflect Veendam’s history. This historic character is not confined to a single place but can be seen in different parts of the cityscape.

The permanent exhibition at the Veenkoloniaal Museum Veendam offers a deeper perspective. Its topics include prehistory, peat extraction and prosperity, colonial seafaring, and life along the canal. Shipwrecks, Sluiskade, Ebenhaëzer, the straw and cardboard industry, and the potato starch industry are also featured. The exhibition brings together early history, life by the water, and a range of industries.

The Veenkoloniaal Museum Veendam is accessible to wheelchair users and families with prams or strollers. It is about a 15-minute walk from Veendam railway station. This gives you useful reference points both for getting there on foot and for finding your way to the museum.

Several listed buildings along the Oosterdiep in Veendam can be viewed from the water. This complements views of the houses and monuments in the cityscape with a perspective from the canal. If you are interested in architecture, you can pair this view with the historical themes of the permanent exhibition.

Routes, activity and green spaces

Borgerswold is a 450-hectare recreation area rich in water and woodland, within walking distance of Veendam’s centre. ATB routes and horse-riding trails run through the park, along with an extensive network of cycling and walking paths. There are several ways to explore: you can go on foot or by bike, or follow the designated ATB routes and horse-riding trails.

Veendam also has walking routes of varying lengths, including a walking network with numbered junctions and themed routes. When choosing a route, you can therefore consider both its length and whether it has a particular theme. Veendam is also home to Europe’s largest Skills Garden: Skills Garden Veendam is a free, adventurous activity and sports park for all ages.

Water and practical information

Boats can moor at the public marina at Molenstreek. The harbour is within walking distance of the shopping centre. For boat travellers, the mooring facility is a useful point of reference, while its proximity to the shopping centre is a practical bonus.

For the broader travel overview: Veendam.