Tubbergen: Springs, Heathland and Cultural Heritage

In the Dal van de Mosbeek, calcium-rich water supports distinctive plant life. Rare species include cuckoo flowers, bog asphodel, orchids, marsh gentian and butterwort. The area is designated as a Natura 2000 site. During a stay in Tubbergen, you can hike across the heathland, take a break by springs and streams, and listen to black woodpeckers. Manderheide is also part of the European network of natural areas because of its biodiversity value and is designated as a Natura 2000 site.

Hiking among springs, meadows and avenues

One specific route is the 4.7-kilometre Springendal Bronnenroute. It passes rippling streams and clear spring ponds, crosses fields and hay meadows, and follows winding paths, some of which are reinforced with wooden boardwalks. Beech avenues are also part of the scenery along the route.

The Boswachterspad Springendal starts at the Brandtoren car park, Brandtorenweg 4 in Hezingen, and can be reached by car via the N349. The nearest bus stop is De Roezenberg in Vasse; from there, it is a 30-minute walk to the starting point. Check the bus connection before you travel. A wide range of cycling, hiking, mountain biking, horse-riding and carriage routes is also available to help you explore Tubbergen.

Mills, an estate and church windows

The Watermolen van Frans in Mander is a historic overshot watermill. Water power drives a pair of millstones there, and the mill building also houses an information and exhibition room. If you plan to visit, check in advance whether visits are possible.

The historic Herinckhave estate in Fleringen is well preserved in its layout. The grounds include a main building, a park, two outbuildings and a watermill, as well as bridges, gates and garden ornaments. The estate therefore encompasses more than a single historic building: its landscaped surroundings and associated structures also define its character.

The Sint-Pancratius Basilica in Tubbergen has 35 stained-glass windows, created by artists from five generations of the Nicolas family. The basilica is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00; check the opening hours before your visit. Interest in its windows led to the creation of Glasrijk Tubbergen, an international glass art festival held annually. It is considered Europe’s largest open-air glass art festival and attracts around 20,000 visitors each year. Dates and programme vary from year to year.

The Kroezeboom on the Fleringer Es offers another special setting: the several-hundred-year-old tree has a small chapel, and outdoor weddings can be held beneath it. The mill, estate, basilica and Kroezeboom thus offer different ways to explore Tubbergen’s history, craftsmanship and design.

Information for excursions

Infocentrum IJs & Es is a starting point for excursions and is open during the opening hours of the adjacent restaurant. Admission is free, and there is also a car park and toilets. The centre provides information about the origins of Noordoost-Twente and the source of the Mosbeek, including the area’s geological development and the subsequent impact of human activity.

Strawberries and regional products

De Manderveense Aardbei offers pick-your-own strawberries, a drive-in and a terrace. Strawberry picking is seasonal and requires a reservation. The farm shop sells regional products, seasonal strawberries and other fruit, as well as homemade jams, sauces and similar products every day. An excursion in Tubbergen can therefore also be an opportunity to discover seasonal produce.

Discover more destinations: Albergen, Tubbergen, Reutum, Geesteren, Vasse, Harbrinkhoek, Mander, Hellendoorn

Return to the main travel overview: Overijssel.