- The city was founded in the 17th century by investors from the western Netherlands who purchased bog land to extract peat for fuel.
- Hoogeveen once featured an extensive system of canals used to transport peat, most of which were filled in during the mid-20th century to accommodate urban road traffic.
- The town's street pattern still reflects its historical origins as a 'veenkolonie' (peat colony), characterized by long, linear stretches of development.
- It is strategically located near the A28 motorway, which historically made it a critical transit point for trade between the northern provinces and the rest of the country.
About Hoogeveen
Hoogeveen is a Dutch town in the province of Drenthe, historically shaped by peat harvesting and its extensive canal network. It serves as a regional hub for arts and culture, anchored by the performances hosted at De Tamboer. Visitors can engage with nature at the expansive Natuurgebied de Olde Kene or explore the local waterways through facilities like Hoogeveen Yachting BV. The town also maintains a diverse architectural landscape, ranging from modern communal spaces to historic sites like the Onze Lieve Vrouw Visitatie kerk⛪.
Highlights of Hoogeveen
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Venues
Attend professional theater performances and concerts in one of the region's primary cultural venues.
Parks
Explore the natural wooded landscape ideal for children and outdoor enthusiasts.
Parks
Traverse the tranquil walking paths through this protected peatland conservation area.
Parks
Relax or engage in water-based leisure activities at this dedicated recreation zone.
Beaches and ponds
Consult with specialists for yachting services and equipment geared toward inland waterway navigation.
Temples
Observe the distinctive architecture of this local parish church.
Top things to do in Hoogeveen
The 70 highest-rated places in Hoogeveen, ranked by travellers.
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Amusement parks
Attractie- & Vakantiepark Slagharen is a Western-themed amusement park located in the province of Overijssel, Netherland...
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Amusement parks
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Museums
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Zoos
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Natural attractions
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Beaches and ponds
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Places of interest
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Hoogeveen on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Hoogeveen
May to September, as the mild climate is best suited for exploring regional parks and outdoor recreational areas.
2 days, which provides sufficient time to experience the town center's cultural venues and the surrounding Drenthe countryside.
The town center is highly walkable, while the surrounding rural areas are best navigated by bicycle or rental car.
The city center offers proximity to cultural venues and dining, while the surrounding areas like Echten provide a more secluded, park-adjacent experience.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining costs generally align with standard Dutch regional pricing.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 70 curated attractions in and around Hoogeveen, ranked by traveller ratings.
Attractie- & Vakantiepark Slagharen is the highest-rated place to visit in Hoogeveen right now.
The largest category is parks, with 18 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague.
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