Out and about with children in the Westerkwartier

The Westerkwartier is a great place to get out and about with children, enjoying the fresh air. Take Nienoord Park, for example. There’s plenty to do here. With over 50 attractions and play areas, you won’t get bored in a hurry. Fancy an adventure? Why not go on an ostrich safari in Boerakker? Or have a go at Glow in the Dark mini-golf at the Postwagen. There’s plenty to do in Westerkwartier.

Blotevoetenpad

Opende – In Opende there is a special trail: the Blotevoetenpad. The name says it all: take off your shoes and socks and off you go. You’ll walk through mud, water and grass. Climb over tree trunks or cross a ditch using a rope. If it’s been raining, there’s even more mud. Along the way, you can rest in one of the hammocks or on a bench.

Familiepark Nienoord

Leek – Deep in the woods of Leek lies a place where no child will ever be bored: landgoed Nienoord. Set in park-like surroundings with walking trails, you’ll find the family park. There’s something for everyone here. For example, you can ride a tractor or let off steam in the climbing frame. You can also have a cuddle with the animals at the petting farm. The family park is home to the largest miniature railway in the Netherlands, with 3.5 kilometres of track. Fancy a refreshing dip? You can do just that in the subtropical water castle.

Kuzemerkooi

Oldekerk – At the Oldekerk duck decoy, you’ll find a lovely natural playground. In the decoy keeper’s cottage, you can learn more about the ducks and enjoy a cosy picnic. There’s also a wooden bird-watching platform: the ideal spot for spotting birds. The natural playground, with its climbing poles and a fantastic suspension bridge over the water, is perfect for little adventurers. If that’s a bit too thrilling, try the Kabouterpad in the woods. You’ll also pass the duck decoy on the ‘Parels in het Westerkwartier’ children’s trail.

Posta7 – a destination for days out

Tolbert – Head to stap with the whole family. As the largest leisure destination in the northern Netherlands, Posta7 offers plenty of choice. Since last year, they’ve expanded to include a Drift Kart Battle, the PostArcade and more bowling lanes. Popular attractions include Glow in the Dark mini-golf, the thrilling ‘Science Fiction Laser Game’ and the Jail Challenge. If you’d rather head outdoors, hire a VETbike and cycle through the Westerkwartier. After these activities, enjoy the Bulgarian Ovensteen (shared dining), buffets or a barbecue. Both the food and the service are provided by the historic restaurant De Postwagen.

Boerakker Ostrich Farm

Boerakker – Enormously long necks and huge eggs. Ostriches are fascinating animals. At the ostrich farm in Boerakker, you can see these animals up close and tuck into a delicious ostrich egg cake. The farm is open between April and October, and after the guided tour led by the owners, you’ll know everything there is to know about ostriches. Or take the Ostrich Safari, where you set off on your own with an information sheet. You’ll feed the animals and watch the emus and nandus from the observation tower. Meanwhile, you’ll search for eggs as part of the treasure hunt. During the safari, you’ll be able to feed a group of ostriches and alpacas. There are also some lovely ostrich products on sale in the shop.