Sleenerzand Forest
Drenthe
Sleenerzand Forest is a large natural area spanning over 1600 hectares in the province of Drenthe, Netherlands, situated between Noord-Sleen and Schoonoord. Established in the 1930s, the forest features a combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The northern part of the forest contains glacial pits dating back to the Ice Age, while the southern section is dotted with ancient burial mounds. Visitors can enjoy the recreational lake Kibbelkoele and the outdoor swimming pool Bosbad Noord-Sleen, both located within the forest. A notable feature is a 30-kilometer mountain biking route that attracts outdoor enthusiasts. The forest also holds poignant World War II memorials, including a monument dedicated to seven soldiers who died when their bomber was shot down in 1943, as well as a stone honoring soldier White, who heroically landed his damaged plane safely in the forest, preventing a disaster in Noord-Sleen. Sleenerzand offers a peaceful natural retreat with rich cultural layers and diverse recreational activities.
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Tip: The best time to visit Sleenerzand Forest is during the warmer months when the outdoor swimming pool Bosbad Noord-Sleen is open and the mountain biking trails are accessible. Visitors planning to camp should note the winter closure period and book camping spots in advance to secure one of the twelve spacious pitches. Exploring the forest by bike or on foot is recommended to fully appreciate its natural and historical features. No specific ticketing is required for the forest, but checking opening times for facilities like the swimming pool is advised.
Interesting facts
- •Sleenerzand covers more than 1600 hectares, making it one of the largest forested areas in Drenthe.
- •The northern part of the forest contains glacial pits from the Ice Age, rare geological features in the region.
- •There are ancient burial mounds in the southern part, evidencing prehistoric human presence.
- •A World War II monument commemorates seven soldiers who died when their bomber was shot down above the forest in 1943.
- •Another stone honors soldier White, who safely landed his damaged plane in the forest, preventing a disaster in Noord-Sleen.
- •The forest includes a 30 km mountain biking trail popular with outdoor sports enthusiasts.
- •Recreational facilities such as the Kibbelkoele lake and Bosbad Noord-Sleen outdoor pool enhance visitor experience.
History
Sleenerzand Forest was planted in the 1930s as part of regional afforestation efforts.
Over time, it has preserved significant prehistoric features such as glacial pits in the north and burial mounds in the south, indicating ancient human activity.
During World War II, the forest became a site of tragedy and heroism, marked by memorials commemorating soldiers who died in aerial combat overhead.
The forest has since evolved into a recreational area balancing natural conservation with public enjoyment.
Place Guide
Kibbelkoele Recreational Lake
A scenic lake within Sleenerzand Forest popular for relaxation and water activities, offering visitors a tranquil spot surrounded by nature.
Bosbad Noord-Sleen Outdoor Swimming Pool
An open-air swimming pool located within the forest, providing a refreshing recreational facility during the warmer months.
Mountain Biking Trail
A 30-kilometer-long trail designed for mountain biking enthusiasts, weaving through diverse forest landscapes and natural features.
World War II Memorial1943
A monument dedicated to seven soldiers who died when their bomber was shot down over the forest in May 1943 during a mission returning from Germany.
Soldier White's Memorial Stone1943
A stone honoring soldier White, who averted a disaster by safely landing his damaged aircraft in the forest instead of the nearby village of Noord-Sleen.
