Dinkel River Beach

The Dinkel is one of the most attractive small rivers in the Netherlands. It rises across the border in Germany and flows into the east of the province of Overijssel, near Denekamp and De Lutte, before turning back to cross the frontier again, and for much of its length it follows a natural course of meanders, sandbanks and pools. The surrounding valley is a landscape of woods, heath, meadows and old estates, and it is one of the best areas for walking and cycling in Twente. Lutterzand, a hamlet near De Lutte, sits on the edge of this landscape.

The name Lutterzand points to sand, and the area is made up of sandy soils and low dunes that were formed from deposits blown and carried by wind and water in the last ice age. The Lutterzand nature reserve combines open sand, heath, pine woods and older broadleaved trees, and the Dinkel flows through it in wide bends. At certain bends, the water leaves a sandy bank on the inside, which makes a small beach where the river is shallow and the sand is soft. It is not a resort beach, just a quiet stretch of riverbank, but for the people who live nearby it is a favourite place for a picnic and a paddle.

The river is clean and slow, and in summer children play in the shallows, build sandcastles and look for small fish and insects. Adults can sit on the bank in the shade of the trees or walk along the water. The surrounding trails lead through woods and heath, and cycling routes link the area with De Lutte, Denekamp and the Singraven estate. Birdwatchers can look for kingfishers and swallows over the water, and the wildflowers along the bank are a delight in spring and summer.

There are no formal facilities and no admission charge, so it is sensible to bring food, drink and anything else you need, and to take your litter away. Swimming is at your own risk, since there are no lifeguards, the water can be deeper than it looks and the current may be stronger after rain. Take care not to disturb wildlife or damage the banks, and keep to paths in the nature reserve.

The spot suits families, walkers, cyclists and anyone who likes quiet places. Spring and early autumn are the most peaceful seasons. A visit can last an hour or a whole afternoon, and it combines easily with the Singraven estate and its watermill.