Dolmens in Drenthe: A journey through time and nature from Emmen
Imagine this: you’re walking through a quiet forest, you hear birds singing, and suddenly you’re face to face with stones that have been there for 5,000 years. These are the dolmens of Drenthe. They’re more than ancient stones—they’re a place where nature, culture, and history come together. This ancient monument tells the story of a long-gone time, right in the middle of Drenthe’s beautiful landscape.
Plan your visit to the dolmens in Drenthe and discover what makes these ancient monuments so special.
What makes the dolmens in Drenthe so special?
The dolmens in Drenthe are the oldest monuments in the Netherlands. These burial chambers were built by the Funnel Beaker people over 5,000 years ago. You’ll find them in surprising places: in forests, on heathlands, and even on the edge of villages. And best of all, you can visit them for free—no fences or gates, just part of the landscape.
Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, or soaking up culture, the dolmens are perfect to combine with a day outdoors. History surrounded by peace and greenery. A visit takes you briefly back in time, while still enjoying today’s Drenthe landscape.
The most well-known dolmens near Emmen
The Netherlands has 54 dolmens, 52 of which are in Drenthe. Three of them definitely deserve a spot on your exploration route.
Dolmen D45 in Emmerdennen
One of the three is dolmen D45, on the edge of the Emmerdennen forest in Emmen. Just a short walk from the city centre, this monument lies quietly hidden among the greenery. Its unexpected location—right in a lively town yet surrounded by nature—makes it truly special. Perfect for a short stop during a walk or bike ride. Here, you get not only a glimpse into prehistory but also a moment of calm without being far from anything.
Dolmen D43, the long barrow near Emmen
Dolmen D43 near Emmen is no ordinary dolmen—it’s the only long barrow in Drenthe. It consists of two smaller dolmens, surrounded by an impressive ring of stones stretching about forty metres. You’ll find this special site just outside Emmen, on the western side toward Odoorn. A peaceful spot in nature, perfect for a short walk and a moment of wonder among ancient stones.
Dolmen D27 in Borger
Dolmen D27, the largest in the Netherlands, lies directly next to the Hunebed Centre in Borger. This is the longest dolmen in the country, built with enormous stones weighing tens of tonnes. Here you can truly see how extraordinary it is that people thousands of years ago could build without modern tools.
Want to know more? Visit www.hunebedcentrum.eu. You can find all dolmen locations at www.drenthe.nl/hunebedden.
Visit the Hunebed Centre in Borger
Want to learn more about life in the Stone Age? Then the Hunebed Centre is a must-visit. This interactive museum shows how people lived, worked, and thought 5,000 years ago. From a reconstructed Stone Age village to scavenger hunts for children. The Hunebed Centre is educational and fun for all ages. What you can experience there:
- Interactive exhibition about life in the Stone Age
- Children’s activities such as scavenger hunts and workshops
- Visit to dolmen D27, the largest in the Netherlands
- A reconstructed Stone Age village
The Hunebed Centre in Borger is just a 20-minute drive from Emmen.
Address: Hunebedstraat 27, Borger.
Ready to dive into prehistory? Buy your tickets at www.hunebedcentrum.eu and start your time travel adventure.
From Emmen: Discover the dolmen route
Emmen is the perfect starting point to explore the dolmens in Drenthe. Rent a bike or hop in the car and turn it into a day trip. Within a short time, you can reach several sites, each with its own atmosphere. Combine nature, history, and relaxation for a complete day out. Tip: bring a packed lunch and enjoy a forest picnic along the way.
Dolmens in Drenthe: unique for young and old.
The dolmens in Drenthe don’t just show you the past—they connect you with the landscape and the people who lived here thousands of years ago. You feel the silence, see the craftsmanship, and experience the uniqueness of these places. All right in the heart of a province known for peace, space, and warmth.
Whether you’re exploring with your family, searching for inspiration, or simply escaping the daily rush—the dolmens offer something unique.
Plan your visit to Drenthe
Want to experience for yourself what makes the dolmens in Drenthe so special? Then plan your visit today. Combine a walk along the dolmens with a visit to Emmen or Borger. Let yourself be surprised by the history, the landscape, and the hospitality of the region.
For more information about routes, locations, and the full dolmen experience, visit www.drenthe.nl/hunebedden and www.hunebedcentrum.eu
Discover for yourself why so many people feel at home in Emmen. Come by, feel the atmosphere, and experience it yourself!
Frequently asked questions about the dolmens in Drenthe
Where can I find the dolmens in Drenthe?
Most dolmens are scattered across Drenthe, often in nature areas or on the edge of villages. The Hunebed Centre in Borger has the largest dolmen and offers a good overview.
Are the dolmens in Drenthe free to visit?
Yes, all dolmens in the landscape are freely accessible and free to visit. Only the museum at the Hunebed Centre in Borger requires an entrance ticket. The large dolmen D27 next to the centre is free to view.
How many dolmens are there in Drenthe?
Did you know the Netherlands has 54 dolmens? And no fewer than 52 of them are in Drenthe. They are numbered from D1 to D54, though a few numbers are missing.
Is there a route to visit multiple dolmens?
Yes, there are several walking and cycling routes that take you past multiple dolmens. The dolmen route is highly recommended. Visit drenthe.nl/hunebedden for more information.
Are the dolmens in Drenthe easily accessible by car or public transport?
Many dolmens in Drenthe are accessible by car and located near parking areas. Some can also be reached by public transport, especially those in or near towns like Borger or Emmen.
