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Smallingerland

Attractions and Places To See around Smallingerland - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Smallingerland, a municipality in the province of Friesland, Netherlands, offers a diverse range of experiences. The region features expansive natural landscapes, including De Alde Feanen National Park and distinctive peat bog areas. Culturally, Smallingerland is home to significant institutions like Museum Dr8888, known for 20th-century visual arts, and various historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Best attractions and places to see around Smallingerland

  • The most popular attractions is Boardwalk at De Wite Mar, a trail noted for its boardwalk. It is recognized as the most beautiful natural ice rink in the Netherlands.
  • Another must-see spot is Freulevijver, a lake that is an old pingo ruin bordered by birch, beech, and mountain ash trees. This idyllic pond was enlarged around 1900 and was once part of a private park.
  • Visitors also love Warten Canal and Drawbridge, a historical bridge in a village that developed from an artificial residential hill into a canal village. The village of Warten was first mentioned in 1412.
  • Smallingerland is known for its diverse natural features, such as national parks and peat bog landscapes, alongside cultural sites like historical farms and museums. The area provides numerous cycling and walking routes to explore its varied environments.
  • The attractions around Smallingerland are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 320 upvotes and 62 photos shared.

Last updated: October 10, 2026

Boardwalk at De Wite Mar

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The most beautiful natural ice rink in the Netherlands

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Warten Canal and Drawbridge

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The village was first mentioned in 1412 as Wartena. Warten was originally a Terp village (artificial residential hill) in the early Middle Ages. It later developed into a canal village. The Dutch Reformed Church was built in 1780 to replace the medieval church. The tower was restored in 1880. The Oud Friese Greidboerderij is an old Frisian longhouse farm built on a terp around 1728. It is one of the few remaining farms that is still in its original condition.

The De Ikkers polder mill dates back to the 18th century. In 1921 it was purchased and moved to Snikzwaag to remove excess water from the Broeksterpolder. In 1970 it was bought back and relocated and restored, but is not in use.

In 1840 Warten was home to 461 people. Until 2014 Warten was part of the municipality of Boarnsterhim and until 1984 it belonged to Idaarderadeel. Text: Wikipedia

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Coopersburg Akkrum

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Coopersburg was a retirement home in Akkrum, Dutch province of Friesland, founded in 1900 by Folkert Harmens. Folkert was a son of Willem Harmens Kuiper and IJtje Rommerts de Vries, both loyal members of the Akkrum Mennonite community. They were quite poor and had a large family. So the son Folkert Harmens Kuiper decided at the age of 23 to emigrate to America, like many from Friesland in the second half of the 19th century. In the United States he had some very difficult years at first, but then made a fortune in business, first owning a drug store in Peoria, Illinois, and then running large businesses in Chicago and New York, which he eventually became private owners of. He changed his name to Cooper. It wasn't long before he was wealthy. He hasn't forgotten his parents. As soon as he could make money, he sent something to his parents and relatives, first a little and soon more. He also visited his father, who died in 1897 at the age of 94. His mother had died early shortly after he emigrated. Cooper himself spent his last years in his native country and died in Akkrum on December 31, 1904. In 1900 he established the Coopersburg Old People's Home in memory of his parents, as the Frisian inscription on the cornerstones reads. The house contained 22 small houses specifically designed for married couples aged 60 and over. They had their own living space and also a small kitchen to prepare their meals. Residents also received a certain sum of money. The home was not restricted to Mennonites, although Mennonites took precedence. The foundation was administered by a board that included the Mennonite minister of Akkrum.

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Solar Ferry De Oerhaal

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On the way beautiful houses with very beautiful gardens were to be seen

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De Alde Feanen National Park

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De Alde Feanen National Park is a national park in the Dutch province of Friesland. The Alde Feanen form a diverse wetland with lakes, fens, quaking meadows, swamp forests, and peatlands.

The national park is located in the center of the province of Friesland and, with an area of approximately 4,000 hectares, represents the largest contiguous natural area in the mainland part of the province. The municipalities of Leeuwarden, Smallingerland, and Tytsjerksteradiel share the park's territory. The small town of Earnewâld, located approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Leeuwarden, is located in the east of the national park and is completely enclosed by it.

At the center of the national park lies the so-called Princenhof, an area consisting of several small lakes, bays, and islands. The Alde Feanen are part of a wide band of peat areas that stretches from Dokkum to Stavoren across the province of Friesland and is known in the Netherlands as “Frieslands Lage Midden”.

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Marco
September 6, 2026, De Alde Feanen National Park

The most beautiful parts of the NP are not accessible by bike, but a bike tour through or along the NP is more than worth the effort.

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The ferry departs from the Warten marina and crosses the Princess Margriet Canal. It's a very pleasant, approximately 10-minute journey.

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Very conveniently located parking lot in Earnewald as a starting point for a cycling tour in the De Alde Fearne National Park.

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The bascule bridge in Warten crosses the Wartenster Wiid on the way to the marina.

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Long ferry route

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nice route

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Opposite the church at By Boellies you can enjoy a drink in the sun.

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The white mar. Here is also the ice rink. Beautiful location with information board is present.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore in Smallingerland?

Smallingerland offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Freulevijver, an idyllic old pingo ruin bordered by trees, perfect for a picnic. The region is also home to De Alde Feanen National Park, known for its expansive natural scenery and diverse ecosystems, ideal for hiking and cycling. Don't miss the Boardwalk at De Wite Mar, recognized as a beautiful natural ice rink in the Netherlands.

Are there historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit in Smallingerland?

Yes, Smallingerland has a rich history. Explore the village of Warten with its historical Warten Canal and Drawbridge, and see the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1780. You can also find the Oud Friese Greidboerderij, an old Frisian longhouse farm from around 1728, still in its original condition. For a unique historical perspective, visit Coopersburg Akkrum, a former retirement home with a fascinating story.

What family-friendly activities are available in Smallingerland?

Families can enjoy several attractions. Kinderboerderij de Naturij is a children's farm with a large lawn and modern play facilities. The renovated Swimming Pool De Welle offers recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Solar Ferry De Oerhaal provides a fun and scenic short boat trip between Warten and Earnewâld, which is popular with families.

Where can I go hiking or cycling around Smallingerland?

Smallingerland is excellent for outdoor activities. You'll find numerous cycling and walking routes that allow you to explore diverse landscapes, from forests to watery nature reserves. For hiking, consider routes like the Kraanlannen loop or the View of the Alde Feanen loop. Cyclists can explore routes such as the Northern Frisian Woods Loop or the De Alde Feanen National Park loop. You can find more detailed routes for hiking at Hiking around Smallingerland and for cycling at Road Cycling Routes around Smallingerland.

Are there any unique or hidden gems in the region?

Beyond the well-known spots, Smallingerland holds some unique places. The typical peat bog landscape, a remnant of historical peat exploitation, can still be observed near Drachtstercompagnie, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The Boardwalk at De Wite Mar, while popular, is a truly unique natural ice rink in winter and a serene walk year-round.

What is the best time of year to visit Smallingerland for outdoor activities?

The spring and summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Smallingerland, with pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural parks. During late spring, the rhododendrons around Freulevijver bloom, creating a beautiful spectacle. Winter offers a unique experience, especially at De Wite Mar, which transforms into a natural ice rink.

Are there any attractions accessible for wheelchairs in Smallingerland?

Yes, some attractions in Smallingerland are noted for their accessibility. The Warten Canal and Drawbridge is listed as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, Coopersburg Akkrum is also noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to explore its historical significance.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Smallingerland?

Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences Smallingerland offers. Many enjoy the peaceful walks, such as the lovely, not-too-long stroll along the Boardwalk at De Wite Mar. The scenic beauty of places like Freulevijver, especially when the rhododendrons are in bloom, is highly valued. The historical charm of villages like Warten and the unique story of Coopersburg Akkrum also receive positive feedback.

Can I experience the traditional Frisian landscape in Smallingerland?

Absolutely. Smallingerland is situated in the province of Friesland and offers quintessential Frisian landscapes. You can observe the typical peat bog landscape, particularly near Drachtstercompagnie, which is characteristic of the region's history. The presence of the Oud Friese Greidboerderij, a traditional longhouse farm, further immerses visitors in the local heritage and agricultural past.

Are there any notable architectural sites in Smallingerland?

Smallingerland features interesting architectural sites, particularly in Drachten. The Van Doesburg-Rinsma House is a notable 'De Stijl' residence, characterized by its distinctive use of primary colors. Additionally, the municipality boasts 68 municipal monuments and 67 entries in the national monument register, including many in Drachten, Oudega, and Rottevalle, showcasing a rich architectural heritage.

What cultural institutions are prominent in Smallingerland?

Museum Dr8888 is a significant cultural institution in Smallingerland. Housed in a former monastery, it has a national reputation for 20th-century visual arts, focusing on Dada and De Stijl movements. It also serves as a cultural-historical center for Smallingerland. For performing arts, Schouwburg De Lawei in Drachten is the main cultural venue, offering a wide array of performances.

What water-based attractions or sights are there?

Smallingerland, with its connection to the Frisian water landscape, offers several water-related sights. The Warten Canal and Drawbridge is a historical point of interest in the canal village of Warten. The Drachtstervaart Canal is historically significant for its role in peat exploitation and Drachten's development. You can also take a scenic ride on the Solar Ferry De Oerhaal across the water.

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