Camping de Bosrand

Pedal off to Dwingelderveld National Park, 10 minutes away, for many, many kilometres of scenic cycle paths through the fens and marshes of Europe’s largest wet moorland area. There are walking trails galore, too – including some super smooth ones for folks roaming with a wheelchair or buggy. The night sky above is often pretty impressive too; learn all about what to look out for on a stargazing evening at the Planetron planetarium in Dwingeloo (15 minutes’ drive). The national park’s something of a haven for butterflies and birds; for beasts a bit bigger you’ll be wanting to wend your way to the Wildlands zoo in Emmen (half an hour’s drive), where all sorts of exotic creatures reside in the four themed zones. Other ideas for family outings nearby are the waterpark and rides at the huge Slagharen theme park (half an hour) and the adrenaline rush of races at the Assen TT circuit (15 minutes). If you’re up for history-themed amblings, head off to Orvelte living museum (20 minutes), the Camp Westerbork memorial centre (20 minutes) or the ancient dolmen in Borger (half an hour).