Ansen through the Dwingelderveld National Park

Imagine yourself far from civilization between the rolling heaths, more than sixty lakes and fens, shifting sands and forests in the largest wet heathland in Western Europe. Dwingelderveld National Park is unique in size and special in terms of flora and fauna. In addition to typical heather plants such as heather, heather, crow's heather and sundew, you will also encounter the rare legumes and bell gentian. They are surrounded by nearly three hundred different bird species, many of which also breed in the area. Butterflies flutter from one flowering shrub to the next and it is therefore the last place in the Netherlands where the very rare peat butterflies still occur. Almost all Dutch reptiles are represented on the wet moorland and the adder, the smooth snake and the grass snake are no exception here, while skittish roe deer hide between the trees. You can also encounter more domesticated animals, because there are herds of moor sheep walking around. The route starts at the Groene Hof. In the tearoom you can enjoy and get acquainted with many healthy and tasty herbal teas, which are grown in our own garden. Naturally, soft drinks are also available for guests who do not like tea. When you're ready to leave, head west. After a few kilometers, the beautiful view of the Zaandplatte windmill presents itself. This octagonal belt mill was built in 1964 and is therefore very young compared to most other Dutch windmills. The mill was declared a national monument in 1992 and was therefore eligible for a subsidy. With this money the mill could be refurbished and so it was completely restored in 1995/1996. The mill grinds grain on a voluntary basis and can be visited on Saturdays. You can enjoy nature for more than thirty kilometers before the former manor Oldengaerde looms up near Dwingeloo. The first mention of the estate dates from 1420. In 1717, the manor house was radically renovated and the building was given a new facade. The second house was also built around this time. The houses are surrounded by a beautiful garden, designed after the garden of Versailles.