Spend the night in woody Drenthe at Mariahoeve Estate

The location of Mariahoeve Estate is very unique. On the grounds of no less than 20 hectares, you can take beautiful walks past special accommodation, camping spots for campers, caravans and tents or cosy meeting places such as Wifi Woods.

During my visit, I was allowed to stay in 'Walden'. A small but nice wooden house beautifully situated on the lake of this nature campsite in Papenvoort in Drenthe and surrounded by tall pine trees. The perfect spot if you want to enjoy a restful stay with some privacy.

Huisje Walden is the perfect accommodation if you want a unique stay in Drenthe for two. The cottage has a double bed, a table with chairs and a heater to keep you warm even in the colder months.

While staying at Walden, you mainly enjoy the surrounding nature. The cottage is cosy but thanks to the beautiful view you can admire from the easy chairs, the fire pit where you make campfires and the outdoor kitchen, you have everything you need.

Cooking over a campfire is great fun but not for everyone. Nevertheless, it is possible to cook outside with a view of the lake. Under the shelter is a gas cooker with two burners so you can still make tasty dishes.

But even if you make a cup of tea with the kettle or coffee with the cafetière, the gas cooker is really super handy! Cups, bowls, glasses, cutlery and plates are provided but do bring your own favourite tea and coffee!

If you do not feel like cooking or making breakfast, at the weekend it is possible to order freshly baked pizzas made at Landgoed Mariahoeve in the special oven. Or order a breakfast of your choice with fresh rolls, croissants and boiled eggs.

There is plenty to experience in woody Drenthe if you like spending time in nature. I have listed various tips for you that you can enjoy when spending the night in Drenthe.

Hikes through the Drentsche Aa National Park

If you are in Drenthe, a walk through one of the three National Parks should definitely not be missed. My favourite is National Park Drentsche Aa! A stream and maple landscape consisting of heathland, fens, dolmens and burial mounds.

Discover nature from a great height at Boomkroonpad

Admire the nature of Drenthe from a great height while walking the Boomkroonpad. The 150-metre-high footpath is located between the tops of the trees and offers you a unique perspective.

Hortus Botanicus Haren just across the border in Groningen

Hortus Botanicus in Haren is not in Drenthe but only half an hour's drive from Mariahoeve Estate and is definitely a tip that should not be missed on this list. In Hortus Botanicus Haren, you walk through various gardens including a Chinese garden, Celtic garden and rock garden.

After a day on the road, nothing beats arriving back at our lovely little house on the Mariahoeve Estate. While the kettle is on the cooker, I light the campfire. The smouldering blocks of wood, birds singing in the background and views over the lake make for a fine conclusion to a fine day. Just relaxing in nature while being warmed by dancing flames and a hot cup of tea. Quietly but contentedly I step into the warm bed, knowing that the next day I will be woken up again by all the birds living on the estate.

When will you discover the Netherlands’ uninhabited island? Share your most beautiful nature photo with us at @honeyguide.nl/en and don’t forget to tag us #heyhoneyguide!

Love,

Anne-Floor