Center of Emmen

Emmen is the largest town in the province of Drenthe and, in many ways, the least typical. For most of its history it was a scattering of villages on the Hondsrug ridge in the south-east of the province, surrounded by heath and peat. In the twentieth century industry arrived, the population grew rapidly, and the town was planned and rebuilt on modern lines. The result is a centre quite unlike the canal towns and old market squares found elsewhere in the Netherlands.

The core is a mostly pedestrian shopping area, with squares, shopping streets, cafes, restaurants and a weekly market. The architecture is contemporary and functional, with open public spaces and a good deal of greenery. It is a practical, friendly place rather than a showpiece, and it works well as a base for exploring the surrounding region. The town is easy to navigate on foot, and bicycle paths lead out into the countryside in every direction.

Green space is an important part of the town's character. Rensenpark, close to the centre, has been developed as a park with art studios, galleries and gardens, and it provides a place to walk and relax. Beyond the town, the Hondsrug and the nearby peat landscapes and nature reserves are accessible by bike or car. Drenthe is also the home of the hunebedden, the prehistoric megalithic tombs that are among the oldest monuments in the Netherlands, and the area around Emmen has several of them, along with museums and visitor centres that explain the story of the first farming communities.

Families are drawn to Wildlands Adventure Zoo, which has grown into one of the most popular attractions in the north of the country, with themed areas representing different continents. Other attractions include the Kinepolis cinema and the Jungola indoor playground. Together they make Emmen a good destination for a family outing, particularly when the weather is poor.

The centre suits families, shoppers and travellers who want to see how a modern Dutch town developed, as well as those using it as a base for the Drenthe countryside. Parking is generally easy and the railway connections are good. A walk through the centre takes an hour or two, with cafes for a pause. Check the market days if you want to see local produce, and combine the walk with Rensenpark.