Swimming in the southwest of Drenthe
in the vicinity of Molenbergh
Natural Reserve Engelgaarde (Angel’s Garden)
The ‘hole of Blijdestein’ is a beautiful lake located a little over 3 km from Molenbergh where you can enjoy a nice swim or fish. It is a former sand mining hole in Natural Reserve Engelgaarde which has compaarably clear water due to its depth. Surrounding the water is a forest with varied flora and fauna and a couple of small beaches dotted around the lake where you can access the water. Both a hiking and cycling track surround the lake. The lake is accessible by turning right towards Ruinerwold at the end of the Weidenweg and turning left onto the Weg van de Bloemen until you reach the parking spots.
It can be decidedly busy on a hot day, especially around the beaches. This means that mornings and evenings are an ideal time for visiting.
A small nudist recreational area can be found at the south of the pond.
There are no catering or sanitation facilities.
Children’s pond Zwarte Dennen (Black Dens)
The natural body of water Zwarte Dennen located in the forests around Staphorst is probably more suited to children. The beaches can be enjoyed by the youngest of children and a playing ground allows for ample out-of-water entertainment. The meadow offers a spot for a picnic or sunbathing, and the kiosk offers a variety of food and drinks and also contains a toilet. The terrain belongs to Staatsbosbeheer, the national public body tasked to preserve its forests. They also offer a walk-and-experience trail for children.
