Zuidlaren
Zuidlaren
Zuidlaren is a picturesque village in the province of Drenthe, Netherlands, known for its green surroundings, dolmens and historic brink village character. Located between Groningen and Assen, the village has a rich history, with traditions such as the annual Zuidlaardermarkt, a centuries-old horse and goods market that attracts visitors from all over the country. Zuidlaren offers beautiful walking and cycling routes through natural areas, such as the Zuidlaardermeer and the National Park Drentsche Aa, and is loved by nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet.
History of Zuidlaren
When you think of Zuidlaren, Berend Botje probably immediately comes to mind, who, according to the well-known song, set sail for Zuidlaren. Zuidlaren was first mentioned in the 11th century and is known as Brinkdorp because of the annual Zuidlaardermarkt, one of the largest cattle markets in Europe, which takes place every third Tuesday of October. In April there is a smaller version, the Kleintje Zuidlaardermarkt.
Due to its strategic location between Groningen, Drenthe and Germany, Zuidlaren grew into an important trading center, which led to the construction of beautiful farms and country houses, such as Landgoed Laarwoud. During World War II, the barracks in Zuidlaren were taken by German troops and used as a prison. The nearby Dennenoord, originally a health resort, served partly as a prison for resistance fighters and partly as a military hospital (lazaret).
Camping De Berken is about 20 kilometers from Zuidlaren.
Ontdek camping de Berken
Activities in Zuidlaren
Around Zuidlaren there is plenty to do. At the Zuidlaardermeer you can enjoy boating, swimming or relaxing on a waterside terrace. On the side of Kropswolde there is a sandy beach with a jetty where you can moor a rented sloop if necessary.
In addition, the Drentse Aa flows past Zuidlaren. This stream valley is located in the National Park Drentsche Aa, where you can enjoy beautiful cycling, hiking and horseback riding. Along the way you may encounter dolmens and ancient cart tracks.
For children, Zuidlaren is a true paradise. At play park Sprookjeshof you will find a large indoor play area and various outdoor activities. Molen De Wachter is also worth a visit; here you can see how a traditional mill works. Throughout the village you can also find deer camps and goat fields, where children can pet the animals and give them bread.
Bicycle around Zuidlaren
Bicycle around Zuidlaren: Start and end: Brink O.Z. 4, Zuidlaren, 53.8 km
Bike junctions: 60, 63, 55, 54, 88, 28, 29, 30, 26, 25, 52, 11, 30, 31, 35, 26, 47, 59, 27, 90, 98, 92, 60
Places you pass: Zuidlaren - Midlaren - Noordlaren - Kropswolde - Hoogezand - Kiel- Windeweer - De Groeve - Spijkerboor - Eext - Annen
Walking around
Walking around Tusschenwater, start and end: Hunzeweg 8, De Groeve, 6.1 km
Hiking nodes: 70, 58, 68, 40, 42, 47, 58, 70
Shops and markets
There are many stores in Zuidlaren. Besides supermarkets and branches of well-known retail chains, there are also several local retailers with a very diverse selection. On Friday afternoons, the weekly market takes place. In high season there is also a regular flea market. Both markets can be found on the Brink, which is the largest of the 7 brinken in Zuidlaren.
Eating out or picking up food
There is nothing to complain about the restaurants in Zuidlaren; there is something for everyone. From a cafeteria to a Michelin star restaurant. The favorite hotspots of the inhabitants are the Olle Stee, pizzeria Friuli and Grand Café Zuidlaren. At the Grand Café there is also regularly live music.
