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

In Es, the top boutique choice is Hotel De Grote Kerk, a former church transformed into a charming hotel with original Gothic arches and stained-glass windows. Located steps from Es Cathedral, it blends historic architecture with modern comfort. For a more intimate experience, De Wijde Horizont offers rustic-chic cabins nestled in the Drenthe countryside, ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Both provide authentic local charm and personalized service, perfect for travelers wanting a unique stay in northern Holland.

Central Es is ideal for first-time visitors, offering easy access to key attractions like Es Cathedral, the Town Hall, and the bustling Marktplaats. The compact town center is walkable, with cozy cafes, local shops, and cultural events. For a quieter, immersive experience, consider staying at De Wijde Horizont on the outskirts—surrounded by heathlands and windmills, this eco-friendly retreat offers peace and panoramic views of the Drenthe landscape, perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.

Visitors to Es should attend the annual Drentse Volksfeest, a vibrant folk festival featuring traditional costumes, live music, and artisan markets. Don’t miss a guided tour of Es Cathedral, where you can hear the 16th-century bell chimes during weekly performances. Explore the Drents Museum to discover prehistoric artifacts and ancient stone tools from the region’s early settlements. These experiences offer deep insight into the rich heritage of Drenthe province and its enduring rural traditions.

Must-try dishes in Es include Drentse Huisstew, a hearty stew made with local lamb, potatoes, and carrots—best enjoyed at De Stilte, a family-run restaurant. Pair it with a slice of Gouda or Edam cheese from the Marktplaats farmers’ market. For a refreshing drink, sample Appelwijn, a traditional Dutch apple wine produced nearby. These flavors reflect the authentic taste of northern Netherlands and are deeply rooted in regional culinary culture.

Yes, Kinderspelboerderij Es is a top-rated farm experience for families, where children can feed goats, milk cows, and take part in pottery workshops. The Drentsche Achterhoek Nature Trails feature child-friendly scavenger hunts with maps and themed challenges. Weekends also offer guided heritage walks tailored for kids, combining storytelling with exploration of old farms and stone monuments—ideal for making memories while learning about local history.

Near Es, explore Nationaal Park Drentsche Achterhoek, a vast heathland and woodland reserve perfect for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. Westerheem Marsh is a protected wetland home to rare species like the black grouse. For art and nature combined, visit Hoge Veluwe National Park, just 40 km away, which houses the Kröller-Müller Museum—featuring one of the world’s largest collections of Van Gogh paintings amid scenic forest trails.

Yes, Es is well-connected via train from Amsterdam and Haarlem, with services arriving at Es Railway Station—just a 10-minute walk from the town center. While no local buses run, bike rentals are widely available, allowing easy access to surrounding areas. For international travelers, Schiphol Airport offers direct shuttle buses to Es, making it convenient to reach without a car. Cycling is the most popular way to explore the region’s scenic countryside.

Absolutely. Es is welcoming to solo travelers, with many boutique hotels like Hotel De Grote Kerk offering quiet reading nooks and cozy common areas perfect for reflection or meeting fellow guests. The town’s slow pace encourages introspection, while guided tours of Es Cathedral and the Drents Museum provide engaging, low-pressure activities. With minimal crowds and a strong sense of community, Es offers a safe, peaceful environment ideal for independent travel.

Visit the Marktplaats farmers’ market for handmade crafts like Drentse wool blankets, wooden carvings, and ceramic tableware by local artisans. De Wijde Horizont boutique sells organic skincare products and limited-edition beeswax candles sourced from regional hives. Don’t leave without trying Es Honingwijn, a locally crafted honey wine awarded at national agricultural fairs—this sweet, aromatic drink makes a memorable gift that captures the essence of Drenthe’s rural spirit.

Es has a temperate maritime climate: mild summers (16–20°C) and cool winters (3–6°C). Spring and autumn bring frequent rain—pack waterproof gear and sturdy shoes. The low-lying terrain often creates morning mist across the heathlands, enhancing the mystical atmosphere but reducing visibility. Best time to visit: May to September, when days are longer and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking are most enjoyable. Always check forecasts before exploring the open moorlands.