Schoonloo
Schoonloo is a charming village in Drenthe, ideal for nature lovers and peace seekers. It is situated in the middle of a beautiful landscape perfect for hiking and cycling. The nearby nature reserves, such as the Schoonloërveld and the Ellertsveld, offer serene views and rich biodiversity. Moreover, the village exudes authentic Drenthe charm, with a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. A perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle!
the history of Schoonloo
Schoonloo, a small village in Drenthe, has a history dating back to the Middle Ages. The village originated as an esdorp, with an agricultural community that lived on arable farming and cattle ranching. The nearby moors were used for sheep grazing for centuries. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the landscape changed through large-scale reclamation and forest planting, leading to the formation of natural areas such as the Schoonloërveld.
Although Schoonloo itself has no major historical events, it reflects the broader history of the villages of Drenthe: a development from simple farming communities to an environment centered on nature and recreation.
Tourist activities
There are no tourist activities in Schoonloo. You can enjoy beautiful biking or hiking. Walking route Wolvenspoor is highly recommended because of its adventurous path through dark woods, heaths and over wooden bridges along fens and the stream valley of the Elperstroom. The route is about 7.4 kilometers long and suitable for anyone with good mobility. Dogs are allowed along, if leashed. The starting point of the route is at the parking lot Wolvenspoor/Loomeer at the Hoofdstraat (N376) in Schoonloo. Please note that in wet periods the trails can be soggy; waterproof shoes are recommended.
In Schoonoord, 7 kilometers from Schoonloo is the Open Air Museum Ellert and Brammert, Tramstraat 73 Schoonoord is a must for young and old because of its unique combination of history and experience. The museum brings Drenthe history to life with authentic sod huts, historic crafts and fascinating stories about life in days gone by. For children there are interactive elements and play opportunities, while adults enjoy the rich culture and traditions. The legend of the giants Ellert and Brammert adds a magical and adventurous touch to the visit. A perfect mix of education, fun and nostalgia!
Bicycle route
Around Schoonloo: Start and end: Westdorperstraat 29, schoonloo: 56.1 km
Bike junctions: 51, 74, 57, 05, 59, 76, 73, 33, 07, 67, 92, 82, 78, 97, 90, 19, 11, 52, 55, 50, 56, 74, 51
Places you pass: Eeserveen - De Kiel - Schoonoord - Wezup - Zweeloo - Aalden - Witteveen - Orvelte - Westerbork - Zwiggelte - Elp
Walking around
Walking around Schoonloo, along the Elperven: Start and end: Hoofdstraat 18, Schoonloo, 7.9 km
Walking junctions: 64, 69, 50, 79, 75, 64
Shops and markets
Schoonloo is a small village without stores. For daily shopping and a wider range of stores, residents and visitors can go to Borger, Schoonoord and Westerbork.
Those who love garden sculptures can indulge themselves at the Garden Sculpture Farm on Hoofdstraat 22, where you will find a large collection of concrete sculptures, wooden and bronze sculptures and white garden statues. There is also a cadaver shop with something for everyone.
Schoonloo has a number of restaurants such as bistro-herberg De Loohoeve and eetcafé Hegeman.
Eating out of picking up food
Herberg de Loohoeve, Address: Hoofdstraat 20 Herberg de Loohoeve in Schoonloo serves dishes prepared with fresh, organic and seasonal local produce. The menu changes every season and offers a selection of honest dishes, including a 3-course surprise menu. You can also enjoy lunch dishes such as soups, richly filled sandwiches and the 'dab lunch', a board for two with various delicacies. The restaurant places great value on presenting products in their pure form, emphasizing the authentic flavors.
Eetcafe Hegeman, Address: Hoofdstraat 16 Eetcafe Hegeman in Schoonloo offers a varied menu with both lunch and dinner dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients appropriate to the season. In addition, Eetcafé Hegeman offers 'Hot Pot's': various composed dishes with beef, pork, chicken, fish or vegetarian options, served with a fresh raw vegetable salad, bread and a garnish of your choice. For children, there is a special menu with dishes such as a small skewer of different vegetables with a tasty dip, or a plate of fries with a snack, applesauce and fries sauce. Hegeman is known for its friendly atmosphere and hospitality, and is an official stopping point for hikers of the Pieterpad.
