Hondsrug - UNESCO Global Geo Park - Groningen and Drenthe

The Geopark Hondsrug stretches over an area from the municipality of Groningen to Coevorden in the south-east of Drenthe. When you hear the word 'park', you might think of a defined area with several entrances. It isn't. The entire Hondsrug area counted as part of the Geopark is about 1,000 km2.

Hondsrug is the Netherlands' first UNESCO Geopark. (by now there are two).

The area contains an extraordinary, geological history that is easily recognisable. Ancient traces of past streams and brook valleys, sand ridges, dolmen formations, salt pillars make up a fascinating whole. You can safely call it the heritage of the Ice Age.

Add to this the enormous wealth of archaeological finds, which indicate very early habitation, and you immediately understand why UNESCO designated the Hondsrug region a Global Geo Park in 2015. One of a kind, unique on a global scale. You can find out much more on its own website Geopark Hondsrug.

What is a UNESCO Global Geo Park

A UNESCO Global Geopark is seen as a gateway to the world's most extraordinary, geological heritage. It offers a landscape shaped by millions of years. Its geological features, cultural history tell recognisable stories of history. Together with today's cultural features, remarkable and varied nature and handling of the area, one can speak of a unique identity. An identity that is carefully managed collectively by users of the area.

Visiting the Hondsrug

Where to start for a visit to the Hondsrug? You'd prefer to avoid the busy, touristy parts of it. and instead experience the variety of landscapes?

LocalGroningen has put together a wonderful route for this, alternating from the Hondsrug to the Hunze Valley. This is the less touristy part of the Hondsrug region. In our eyes, perhaps the most beautiful and interesting part of it.

In some places, from the Hondsrug you have beautiful views of the lower Hunze Valley. Conversely, it is fascinating to hear the history of the peat extraction areas and discover how the Hondsrug and the river Hunze were and still are inextricably linked.

Beautiful nature, atmospheric, historic esdorpen villages, archaeological highlights, megalithic tombs as well as a glimpse into the distant future, it's all part of the route 'Hondsrug and Hunzedal'

This route can be booked separately, and also in combination with a complete package. See below.