Top 20 Lakes around Assen
Best lakes around Assen, a city in the Netherlands, are primarily known for recreation and natural beauty. The region features several lakes, many of which originated from sand excavations. These areas offer diverse landscapes, including beaches, woodlands, and open water. Visitors can find various recreational opportunities across these lake environments.
Best lakes around Assen
- The most popular lakes is Lake Gasselterveld, a lake that was formed from sand extraction. This 65-hectare area features a large sandy beach and is…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Lake Gasselterveld
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The New Heavenly Realm
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Ieberenplas
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Gieten Trail along 't Gasselterveld
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Lake in Appelbergen
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Tips from the Community
It's a good place, great views and the paths are very good.
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Beautiful view in beautiful surroundings.
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Is this Italy or Drenthe? The intense blue water, white sand and green conifers give this place a foreign feeling. But it is really our beautiful Drenthe
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This is an oddity in this landscape of pine forests and bogs. The Gasselterveld used to be an mine, hence the "oddity" of light blue waters in a place where every other pond, lake, puddle is pitch black! This is a big, very deep (50 meter) pond where people come to swim and do all sorts of other water activities including scuba diving. https://www.staatsbosbeheer.nl/uit-in-de-natuur/recreatieterrein-gasselterveld
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Lovely lake in the woods for relaxing. A whole day or during a stop while cycling and/or walking. All facilities are available for a lunch or coffee stop.
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Groningen people pronounce the name Appelbergen with the emphasis on the è, so like the word appel, in the legal/military sense. Originally, the name was pronounced with an emphasis on the a, so as the word apple (= fruit), where apple refers to pine cones. These apples used to be used as fuel for cooking and heating. The shift in sound is the result of the forest being used as a training ground for years. The pronunciation, intended as a joke, has become so common that many Groningen residents correct those who pronounce the name “incorrectly”. The name explanation, which goes back to 1672, is perhaps the nicest. In that year, France, England, the Bishop of Cologne and the Prince Bishop of Münster, Berend van Galen (Bommen Berend), jointly declared war on the Republic of the Netherlands. In the Northern Netherlands, mainly troops from Münster and Cologne performed. In July 1672, the invading troops captured a number of East Groningen forts. The Bourtange fortress held up well and remained intact. The attackers moved around it, but had to make a long detour because all the low lands were flooded. The only dry route for men, horsemen and artillery of the German troops ran across the Hondsrug. The armies of Bommen Berend (24,000 men) bivouacked around the current Appèlbergen. According to legend, thousands of soldiers stood at roll call here between the shifting sand hills every morning!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Assen?
Yes, several lakes around Assen are ideal for families. The New Heavenly Realm is a swimming lake with white sand, playground equipment, a kiosk, and a restaurant. Ieberenplas is another play pond with a large sandy beach, shallow water, and amenities like a kiosk and toilets. Baggelhuizerplas also offers a play island, a wooden deck with a slide and zip line, and sports fields, making it very suitable for families.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming near Assen?
For swimming, you can visit Baggelhuizerplas, which has extensive beaches and designated swimming zones. Lake Gasselterveld features a large sandy beach perfect for relaxing and swimming. The New Heavenly Realm and Ieberenplas are also popular swimming lakes with sandy beaches.
Are there dog-friendly lakes or areas around Assen?
Yes, Lake in Appelbergen is noted as dog-friendly, offering a beautiful natural setting for walks with your pet.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Assen?
The lakes around Assen offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and sports like volleyball and football at Baggelhuizerplas. Cycling and walking are popular in the wooded areas surrounding many lakes. For more structured activities, you can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and mountain biking. Explore options in the Running Trails around Assen, Cycling around Assen, and MTB Trails around Assen guides.
Are there good places for fishing near Assen?
Yes, Carpfarm Lake is a specialized destination for carp fishing enthusiasts. It's known for its unique stock of large carp, with specimens over 65 lbs, and offers dedicated fishing swims in a tranquil setting.
What natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Assen, many formed from sand excavations, feature diverse natural landscapes. You'll find extensive sandy beaches, grassy areas, and surrounding woodlands. Lakes like Lake Gasselterveld and Ieberenplas are nestled within or border beautiful nature reserves and forests, offering scenic views and opportunities for nature observation.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Assen?
The best time to visit the lakes around Assen largely depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and sunbathing, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. For cycling, walking, and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes offer amenities. The New Heavenly Realm has a kiosk and a restaurant on-site. At Baggelhuizerplas, you'll find a kiosk for refreshments. Ieberenplas also has a kiosk open on summer days.
Is parking available at the lakes?
Yes, parking is generally well-provided. Baggelhuizerplas offers ample parking facilities. For Carpfarm Lake, parking is available directly at the fishing swims. Specific parking details for other lakes may vary, but recreational areas are typically equipped for visitors.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity. The Gieten Trail passes along Lake Gasselterveld, offering a scenic route. The Baggelhuizerplas area also features mountain bike routes. You can find more detailed information and routes in the MTB Trails around Assen guide.
What makes Baggelhuizerplas a popular recreational spot?
Baggelhuizerplas is popular due to its extensive recreational area spanning 125 hectares, offering beaches, woodlands, and various amenities. It features a play island, a wooden deck with a slide and zip line, a kiosk, toilets, showers, and sports fields. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and hosts events like the annual Liberation Festival and Bike Festival Assen.
Are there any less crowded lakes for a quieter experience?
While Baggelhuizerplas and the main swimming lakes can be popular, Carpfarm Lake offers a more tranquil and specialized experience, primarily catering to anglers seeking a peaceful setting. For general recreation, visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays might offer a quieter experience at other lakes.
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