Get some fresh air together in the Groningen countryside. With your four-legged friend by your side, you will discover the province's most beautiful spots. From vast forests to the beautiful Stadspark: there is always a route that suits you and your dog.
Watch out for breeding season!
With the breeding season approaching, it is extra important to take the peace and quiet of birds and other animals into account. Fortunately, there are plenty of areas where you can enjoy all the beauty Groningen has to offer on a leash or on designated off-leash routes. Below, we highlight some great walking spots for every dog and every owner.
Around the Noordlaarderbos
Starting point: Duinweg, 9479 TM Noordlaren
Dog policy: Leash obligation
In the south of the province, near the border with Drenthe, you will find the Noordlaarderbos. Walk not only through nature, but also through history. The centuries-old nature reserve has an awful lot of hidden stories. On the way, for instance, you come across many cart tracks from the Middle Ages, reminding you of the trade route between Coevorden and Groningen. You walk along beautiful forest paths and across the heathland, so your view never gets boring. One thing is certain, your dog's senses will be fully stimulated by the new scents and surroundings, even on a leash.
View
Stadspark Groningen
Starting point: Stadspark, Concourslaan, 9727 KC Groningen
Dog policy: On-leash and off-leash areas
A stone's throw from the city centre is the Stadspark. An oasis of green in the busy city, inspired by the style of the English countryside. This is the ideal location for those who live in the city but still want to get out into nature. Walk around the Zonneweide and let your dog run wild in the off-leash area. Besides the many playgrounds for children, there is even a special playground for four-legged friends. The place to train and entertain your dog with tricks, after which he can take a refreshing dip in one of the ponds. The park is big enough for the fanatics, but also definitely for a little lap.
View
Appelbergen
Starting point: Car park P2, Hoge Hereweg, 9756 TJ Glimmen
Dog policy: Off-leash route, leash in view of the breeding season
A little further outside the city, next to the village of Glimmen, is Appelbergen. This was once a military training area. The combination of sand drifts, open heathland and sheltered forest paths makes every walk special. Here you will also find small prehistoric phenomena, so-called pingo ruins: small waters where your dog can feel free to paddle. Nearby is Camping De Kleine Wereld, where you can also stay overnight with your dog in the middle of nature. After the walks, you can enjoy a little refreshment at Paviljoen Appelbergen, where dogs are of course welcome.
View
Kardinge
Starting point: Parking place P+R/Transferium Kardinge
Dog policy: On-leash and off-leash areas
The rich recreation area Kardinge is a diverse area surrounded by meadows full of cows, birds and insects. During the breeding season, it is therefore compulsory to keep your dog on a lead here. This does not make the walk any less boring. You walk past the Kardingerheuvel, the Kardingerplas and characteristic spots such as the Noordermolen. Enough entertainment for everyone. Within ten minutes cycling from the city centre, you and your four-legged friend are in a green world among the meadows.
View
Nature reserve 't Roegwold
Starting point: Hooilandsweg 3, 9618 PG , Woudbloem, Car park
Dog policy: Leash obligation
East of the city of Groningen, between Kolham, Slochteren and the Schildmeer, lies 't Roegwold. A vast nature area where reed and water define the landscape. The area is popular with walkers and birdwatchers thanks to the peace, space and many bird species that breed here. The famous Knuppelpad takes you over a platform right through the reed swamp, a special experience in the middle of nature. Long walking routes and shorter circuits alternate, always with beautiful views to enjoy. Because of the fragile nature and many breeding birds, dogs must be kept on a leash here.
View
Biessumer Forest
Starting point: Ossenweg, 9931 EC, Delfzijl
Dog policy: Leash obligation
Walk along the winding footpaths through a young but surprising and versatile forest. The Biessumerbos consists of open fields after which it connects to the forest. In the middle of the area is a bat cellar where bats find their rest. Here you will also find a concrete ring that reminds you of the farm De Vossenheerd, which once stood here. In a clearing is the Huttenbos (hut forest), where free play and hut-building are central. Perfect if you come for a walk with children and there is time for a break. The Biessumerbos is located near the Biessum mound, near Delfzijl in the north-east of the province. In addition, the Ommetje Biessum was voted the most beautiful promenade in Groningen.
With many thanks to our models:
Bordercollie Flynn, Weimaraner labrador Luna, Doodle Froemel, Cockapoo Boris, Toller Woody, Stabijhoun Noa and Beagle Toby
