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

In Zuidwolde, the standout choice is De Hees Hotel & Restaurant, a charming boutique retreat nestled within the wilds of Drenthe's natural landscape. This eco-conscious hotel blends traditional Dutch timber architecture with modern comfort, offering cozy rooms and locally-sourced gourmet dining. Located just steps from Hoge Veluwe National Park, guests can explore the renowned Kroller-Müller Museum—home to Van Gogh masterpieces—on foot. For a unique stay, consider staying in restored farmhouses in the nearby village of Zuidlaren, ideal for travelers seeking authentic rural Dutch charm and quiet countryside serenity.

The best area for accommodations in Zuidwolde is the southern forest zone near Hoge Veluwe National Park. This region combines scenic tranquility with easy access to cultural highlights like the Kroller-Müller Museum, home to one of Europe’s finest Van Gogh collections. Towns such as Zuidlaren offer charming, restored farmhouses converted into boutique lodges, showcasing traditional Dutch stone walls and timber framing. With minimal light pollution, the area is perfect for stargazing and immersive nature experiences—ideal for travelers seeking peace, authenticity, and a deep connection to the Dutch countryside.

In Zuidwolde, experience the annual Drentse Boerenfeesten festival in Zuidlaren, celebrating traditional farming life with handmade wool crafts, pottery demonstrations, and folk dances. Visit the Kroller-Müller Museum for guided tours that explore how Van Gogh’s art was inspired by the surrounding heathlands. For outdoor enthusiasts, rent a bike and ride through the Hoge Veluwe National Park’s wooden boardwalk trails, where you’ll encounter ancient stone churches, wild deer herds, and panoramic views of the Dutch heath—a true immersion in Drenthe’s untouched heritage.

Yes, Family Farmstay De Vliet near Zuidwolde is an excellent family-friendly option. Housed in a century-old farm building, it offers spacious interconnecting rooms, a dedicated playroom, and an outdoor sandpit. Weekly family farm activities include milking goats, feeding lambs, and baking bread together—perfect for children. Located at the entrance to Hoge Veluwe National Park, it’s ideal for nature walks and stargazing. Meals feature organic, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring wholesome, delicious options for young guests.

Absolutely. Zuidwolde, located in the remote countryside of Drenthe, boasts exceptionally dark skies with minimal light pollution—making it one of the Netherlands’ premier stargazing destinations. The Hoge Veluwe National Park’s viewing platforms offer unobstructed views of the Milky Way and meteor showers. Many local hotels, such as De Hees Hotel, host regular guided stargazing sessions with telescopes and expert astronomers. Best visited from late summer to early autumn when skies are clearest and weather most stable—ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking cosmic wonder.

The easiest way from Amsterdam to Zuidwolde is taking a train to Assen, the capital of Drenthe, which takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. From Assen Station, transfer to local bus line Arriva 652, which runs directly to Zuidwolde in around 30 minutes. Alternatively, rent a car and drive via the A1/A30 highways, passing through Assen, for a journey of approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. HopeGoo tickets or rental vehicles in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as this region is a popular destination for nature tourism and attracts high visitor volumes.

Local cuisine in Zuidwolde reflects Drenthe’s rustic traditions, emphasizing organic, regional ingredients. Must-try dishes include Drentse Kippenstoofpot, a slow-cooked chicken stew with potatoes and herbs, rich in flavor. Restaurants like De Hees Restaurant offer plant-based and gluten-free options, aligning with sustainable dining values. Don’t miss Roggebier, a distinctive dark rye beer brewed locally—available at markets in Zuidlaren. Visitors can also join a farm-to-table dinner experience, dining with local farmers and learning about traditional Dutch agricultural practices through taste and storytelling.