Surroundings
Holiday apartment De Deel is an ideal starting point for either hiking and cycling or for kayaking and canoe trips, as it is centrally located on the unique Hogeland of Groningen – a true dorado for silence seekers, cyclists and nature lovers, as well as for birdwatchers, photographers, writers and painters.
The Hogeland is part of the seemingly endless Wadden Sea landscape (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the oldest cultured landscapes in Europe) and borders the Lauwersmeer National Park which, with all its lakes, woods and wetlands is a true bird’s paradise.
South of the Hogeland is a region called Middag-Humsterland (National Landscape), with the lovely Reitdiepdal (river valley) and highly attractive villages, like Niehove.
To the east BlauweStad (‘Blue Town’) and the area around Loppersum are worth your visit. Within 25 minutes by car you can either reach the ferry to the Wadden island of Schiermonnikoogwith its dunes, wide beaches and quaint village, or choose just the opposite: the historic town-centre of busy, beautiful Groningen (City) and its boasting museums, markets, pubs, concert halls and shops to please all shopaholics.
Within cycling distance are many picturesque villages with centuries-old churches (and their world famous organs!) museums, galleries, gardens, country houses, nurseries and cosy restaurants. Popular family attractions in the vicinity are: Zoutkamp harbour, Lauwersoog’s Seal Nursery and Waddenfun in Leens, Holland’s biggest indoor climbing gym.
Tips
* Cycle from De Deel to Lauwersoog Harbour (about 16 miles) and take the ferry to the island of Schiermonnikoog
* Cycle along the Wadden dikes, for wide views of land and (tidal) waters. To the northwest, out in the Wadden Sea, you’ll spot Schiermonnikoog´s lighthouse and water tower and to the northeast the first of the German Wadden Isles, Borkum.
* Take a walk on the salt marshes and mud flats, hear and see nature… and nothing else!
* Walk a few miles along the Pieterpad (Holland´s most famous long distance footpath – its starting point in Pieterburen is only 2 miles km away)
* Rent a canoe or kayak in nearby Wehe Den Hoorn and paddle along, exploring the beautiful inland waterways
General information
