Cycling route Havelter Dolmens 38 km

Uffelte, Havelte, Holtinge

Choose this beautiful, relatively short route to search for the dolmens around Havelte. Cross the Dwingeloosche Heide, also known as the Dwingelderveld. This is the last large wet heathland in the Netherlands. In fact, it's the most important wet heathland on the European mainland. As you cycle through it, you'll discover why it's called a "wet heath": over sixty ponds, fens, and bogs are hidden among the heather flowers.

From this unique nature reserve, you cycle through the edge of the forest to the first village: Ansen. A true esdorp (village with a typical Dutch es-like character), recognizable by the farmhouses clustered together on the village green. Bordering the village are the expansive, communal fields and the secluded Rheebruggen estate.

Near Havelte, you'll pass the famous dolmens, which are special for several reasons. These dolmens are the only ones in the Netherlands to have been moved from their original location. This happened in the last year of World War II: the stones of dolmen D53 were dug into a deep pit in 1945 near the dolmen's original site, because the German occupation had built an airfield. The airfield was eventually bombed to pieces. The remnants of the war are still visible in the area. Dolmen D54 was also covered with sand during World War II. In 1947, the stones of both dolmens were excavated, restored, and reassembled.

The dolmens, of course, go back much further in history. Such mysterious phenomena in the middle of nowhere, so you can imagine that the wildest stories have arisen over the centuries. For example, there's a folk tale about the "Wapserveen Spider Women." Add the stop to your route and discover the story. The prehistoric structures are located in the heart of the Holtingerveld nature reserve. Conclude your route with a wonderful hike through nature!