Zuidlaardermeer

The Zuidlaardermeer is a lake on the boundary between the provinces of Drenthe and Groningen, south of the city of Groningen, and it is one of the largest stretches of open water in the north of the Netherlands. Its shape and setting are linked to the long geological history of the region. The landscape here was formed by ice and meltwater, and the lake lies in a shallow hollow in which the water of the Hunze and other streams collects. Shores of reed, woodland and heath surround it, and the villages along its edges, such as Zuidlaren, Kropswolde and others, have long used it for fishing and boating.

The lake is a place for a range of activities. Sailing is the best known, with clubs and moorings around the shore, and dinghies and cruising boats are a common sight on summer days. Canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding are popular for those who want a quieter experience, and the shallow water suits beginners. Swimming is possible at certain informal spots along the shores, but visitors should be careful, as the water can be shallow and muddy and, in hot weather, blue-green algae sometimes form and swimming is then discouraged, so it is wise to check local notices first.

Birds are one of the lake's attractions. Reed beds and marshes around the edges provide habitat for marsh birds, and in spring and summer the reeds are full of song. In autumn and winter, thousands of geese come to the area to feed and roost, and watching them take off at dawn or settle at dusk is a spectacle. Early morning is the best time for birdwatching, when the lake is calm and the light is soft. Binoculars are essential, and some of the shore has paths and viewing points.

Getting around is easy. Footpaths and cycle routes follow parts of the shore, with free parking at several places such as Meerzicht, De Groeve and Kropswolde, and buses link the area with Haren station. The neighbouring landscape includes heath, woods and the hunebedden of Drenthe, so a day can combine the lake with a visit to the prehistoric tombs.

The lake suits sailors, paddlers, birdwatchers, cyclists and families who like to be outdoors. Bring sun protection and a windproof layer, as the open water can be breezy. A visit can take a couple of hours or a whole day, depending on the activity.