Beilen(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Beilen, the top family-friendly option is Hotel De Kromme Dijk, a charming boutique hotel blending traditional Dutch farmhouse architecture with modern comforts. Located in the heart of Drenthe Province, it’s surrounded by forests and lakes, perfect for outdoor activities. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and easy access to Hoge Veluwe National Park, making it ideal for nature-loving families seeking authentic Dutch countryside experiences.

The town center of Beilen is the prime area for lodging, offering convenient access to key attractions like Sint Janskerk Church and De Vrije School Cultural Center. This quiet, historic district features cozy cafés, local shops, and a range of guesthouses and B&Bs such as B&B De Huisman, providing a genuine taste of rural Dutch life and serving as a perfect base for exploring Drenthe Province.

In Beilen, don’t miss the annual De Drentse Winterfeesten (Drenthe Winter Festival), where the town transforms into a medieval-style market with locals in traditional costumes, craft stalls, and regional food. Visit the Folkloristisch Museum Beilen to explore local heritage, or walk through Het Oude Dorp, a preserved 17th-century village, to experience the authentic atmosphere of old Dutch rural life and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Drenthe Province.

Yes, Beilen is close to Hoge Veluwe National Park, one of the Netherlands’ most renowned natural areas. With vast heathlands, pine forests, and open grasslands, the park offers well-maintained trails suitable for all levels. The Veluwezoom Trail is particularly popular, where you can spot wild horses and deer. Don’t miss the Kroller-Müller Museum, whose outdoor sculpture garden blends art and nature seamlessly—ideal for a peaceful hike with cultural enrichment.

Must-try local specialties in Beilen include Drentse boekweitpannenkoeken (Drenthe buckwheat pancakes) made from locally grown flour, served crispy with honey or fruit jam. Another highlight is Zwarte Pieten, a festive almond-chocolate pastry traditionally enjoyed during winter holidays. Enjoy them at local spots like De Looiers Bakery or Oude Winkel Café, paired with a glass of regional Drentse bier for an authentic taste of Drenthe cuisine.

Many hotels in Beilen provide bicycle rentals, including Hotel De Kromme Dijk and B&B De Huisman, which offer free bikes for guests. These are perfect for exploring the extensive network of cycling paths across Drenthe Province, such as the Veluwe Loop route through forests and villages. Some hotels also supply detailed maps and guided suggestions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable bike adventure.

Beilen shines in winter with its Winter Festival & Christmas Market, held each December. The town square turns into a magical snowy village with wooden stalls selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and gingerbread. Take a nighttime light tour to see the historic Sint Janskerk Church and old buildings illuminated in soft glow. If conditions allow, visit Lake IJsselmeer for ice skating, offering a unique Dutch winter experience.

Absolutely. Beilen is highly family-friendly. Visit the children’s exploration trail in Hoge Veluwe National Park, featuring interactive stations and nature education points. The De Vrije School Cultural Center hosts regular workshops in pottery, weaving, and traditional Dutch games. Hotels like Hotel De Kromme Dijk provide welcome packs for kids and family room options, ensuring a comfortable and engaging stay for all ages.

Though a small town, Beilen is well-connected. The nearest train station is Assen (15 km away), with direct trains to Amsterdam and Haarlem. From Assen, buses and taxis run regularly to the town center. Most hotels offer shuttle services. Additionally, the Drenthe road network is excellent for driving, especially for travelers planning to explore Hoge Veluwe National Park and surrounding villages at their own pace.

Key landmarks in Beilen include Sint Janskerk Church, a 13th-century Gothic structure with stunning stained-glass windows and a tall spire. Another highlight is De Huisman, a restored 18th-century farmhouse now housing cultural exhibitions. Explore Het Oude Dorp, a preserved historical village with stone cottages and a windmill, reflecting early settlement patterns in Drenthe Province. These sites offer both architectural beauty and deep insight into local heritage.