Winschoten: A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands

Located in the northern province of Groningen, Winschoten is a charming city that offers a mix of history, nature, and entertainment. Despite being lesser-known than other Dutch destinations, Winschoten boasts a wide range of attractions that cater to every taste and interest. In this guide, we’ll delve into the must-see spots that will make your visit to Winschoten unforgettable.

Museums and Historical Landmarks

• Museum Stoomgemaal Winschoten: This museum showcases the impressive steam pumping station that was built in 1911 and was in use until 1984. Visitors can learn about the station's history and see the restored engines in action. URL

• Burcht Wedde: A medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved fortresses in the region. The castle houses a museum where visitors can explore the history of the Burcht and its inhabitants. URL

• Sint-Vituskerk: A neo-Gothic church that was built in 1895 and is known for its stunning stained-glass windows and impressive pipe organ. URL

• Veenkoloniaal Museum: This museum focuses on the history and culture of the Veenkoloniaal region, which was characterized by peat extraction and agriculture. The exhibits include paintings, photographs, and artifacts that illustrate life in the region from the Middle Ages to the present day. URL

Parks, Gardens, and Natural Spaces

• Pieter Smit brug: This suspension bridge is a modern landmark that spans the Winschoten canal and offers beautiful views of the city. URL

• Koekoekstunneltje: A picturesque underpass that connects two parts of Steringa Kuiperweg and is decorated with colorful murals.

• Sterrebos: A peaceful park that features walking trails, a pond, and a playground. The park is surrounded by stately homes and is the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

• Rosarium: Located in the city park Meester D.U. Stikkerlaan, this beautiful rose garden features more than 60 varieties of roses and is a lovely place to relax and unwind.

• City Park Winschoten: A spacious park that includes a playground, a pond, and a fountain. The park is the perfect place to go for a walk or to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

• Beersterplas: A picturesque lake that is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. URL

• Midwolderbos: A national forest that is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is ideal for hiking and birdwatching.

Entertainment and Activities

• Waterpark Tusschenwegen: This hiking area features several well-marked trails that wind through heaths and forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

• The Waste land: Zuiderveen Festival: Held in the village of Zuiderveen, this festival celebrates music, art, and nature and is a unique and memorable experience. URL

• Playground Beerta 't Speulparadies: This playground is a paradise for kids and includes a zip line, a trampoline, a maze, and much more. URL

• Landgoed Tenaxx: A dinosaur-themed park that features life-size models of prehistoric creatures, a petting zoo, and a playground. The park is a hit with kids and is a fun and educational outing for the whole family. URL

• Wubsbos: A hidden gem in the Sint Vitusholt neighborhood, this garden is a peaceful oasis that is filled with flowers, trees, and whimsical sculptures. URL

• Uw Wandelcoach: If you're looking for a guided walk, check out Uw Wandelcoach. The company offers customized hiking tours that take visitors through scenic areas around Winschoten. URL

Unique Attractions

• De Kiekkaaste: This bird-watching hut is located in the Reiderwolderpolder and offers visitors the chance to spot a wide range of bird species, including spoonbills, avocets, and black-tailed godwits. URL

• Oostwold: A charming village that is known for its annual airshow, which attracts aviation enthusiasts from around the world. URL

• Reiderwolde Toren en Amfitheater, natuurgebied, natuurbegraafplaats: Located in the Reiderwolderpolder, this nature preserve includes a tower with panoramic views, an amphitheater for cultural events, and a natural burial site. URL

• Watertoren: This striking water tower is a landmark that dates back to the early 20th century and is still in use today. URL

• Aanlegplek Bellingwolde Veendiep: This small harbor is located on the Veendiep canal and is the perfect place to moor your boat or to watch the boats go by.

• OZMI - oude melkfabriek schoorsteen: A historic chimney that was part of a milk factory that operated in Winschoten from 1901 to 1995. Today, the chimney is a reminder of the city's industrial past. Temporarily closed.

• Sluis: A lock that connects the Winschoten canal with the Dollart estuary and is an important waterway for shipping. Temporarily closed.

Conclusion

Winschoten may not be as well-known as Amsterdam or Rotterdam, but the city has much to offer visitors who are looking for a unique and authentic Dutch experience. From its historic landmarks to its natural spaces to its family-friendly attractions, Winschoten has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to this hidden gem in the north of the Netherlands!