Tynaarlo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Tynaarlo, a charming town in Northern Netherlands, with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.


Introduction to Tynaarlo

Tynaarlo is a picturesque town located in the province of Drenthe, in Northern Netherlands. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Tynaarlo is a perfect place to escape the hustle-bustle of city life and unwind in the lap of nature. The town is home to several museums and historical sites, beautiful nature reserves, and biking and hiking routes that will take you through scenic landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Tynaarlo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tynaarlo has a rich history and culture, and it is home to several museums and historical sites. The Drents Museum, located in the nearby city of Assen, is one of the largest museums in the Netherlands and features a collection of artifacts that trace the history of Drenthe from prehistoric times to the present day. The Veenpark is another must-visit place, where you can explore the history of peat mining and see how people used to live and work in the peat colonies. Other must-see historical sites include the Drouwen Megaliths, the Hunebedcentrum, and the Kloosterkerk museum.

Natural Attractions of Tynaarlo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tynaarlo boasts several nature reserves that offer breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Drentsche Aa National Park is a nature reserve that is famous for its winding streams, grassy meadows, and woodlands. It is an excellent place to go hiking or biking and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Other popular nature reserves in the area include Hijkerveld, Drouwenerzand, and the Fochteloërveen.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tynaarlo

Tynaarlo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are several hiking and biking trails running through the beautiful natural landscapes of the region. The Drentsche Aa wandelroute, also known as the Drentsche Aa walking route, is one of the most popular trails and takes you through the heart of the Drentsche Aa National Park. Another favorite route is the Drents-Friese Wold route, which takes you through the forested landscape of national park Drents-Friese Wold.

Best Things to Do in Tynaarlo: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do and explore in Tynaarlo. You can go horseback riding, golfing, or fishing in one of the many lakes and streams in the area. Take a day trip to nearby Groningen, a vibrant university city with a rich cultural scene and excellent shopping. Visit a local farm and learn about the agricultural practices in the region and try fresh, organic products. Join guided tours and explore the cultural and historical sites of Tynaarlo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tynaarlo

If you have a week to spend in Tynaarlo, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Tynaarlo and explore the town center
  • Day 2: Visit the Drents Museum in Assen, followed by a trip to the Veenpark
  • Day 3: Go hiking or biking in the Drentsche Aa National Park
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Groningen
  • Day 5: Visit the Hunebedcentrum and explore the Drouwenerzand nature reserve
  • Day 6: Go horseback riding or fishing in nearby lakes and streams
  • Day 7: Visit a local farm and learn about the agricultural practices in the region

Food and Drink Scene of Tynaarlo

Must-Try Dishes

Tynaarlo is famous for its local produce, and you must try some of the authentic dishes that are unique to the region. Some of the must-try dishes include the Drenther kruidkoek, a spiced cake made with rye flour, the Drentse turfjes, a pastry filled with almond paste, and the Drentse kniepertjes, a thin, crispy waffle. Other local specialties include mustard soup, stamppot, and asperges.

Local Beverages

Beer lovers must try the locally brewed beers, such as the Drentsche Schansbier or the Pivo Bier. The region is also famous for its fruit wines, such as the Drentse Kruisbessenwijn, a wine made from gooseberries.

Where to Stay in Tynaarlo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tynaarlo offers a wide range of accommodation options, as per your budget and preferences. The Van der Valk Hotel in Assen is a luxurious option, located near the Drents Museum. The Bed and Breakfast de Kornelishoeve is a charming guesthouse in the heart of Tynaarlo town. For budget travelers, there are several hostels and camping sites in the nearby nature reserves, such as the Natuurkampeerterrein Borger or the Camping De Bronzen Emmer.

What to Buy in Tynaarlo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tynaarlo is a great place to buy authentic Dutch souvenirs and local products. Visit the local markets and shops to purchase handcrafted pottery, traditional wooden clogs, and locally made cheese, sausage, and wine. For unique souvenirs, visit the Atelier Bonvanie, which sells handmade chocolates and candies, or the IJsfontein, which sells gelato made with fresh local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Tynaarlo

The people of Tynaarlo are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Respect the local customs and always greet people with a smile. Dutch is the official language, but most people speak English fluently. The town is proud of its cultural heritage, and you can see that in the traditional festivals and celebrations, such as the annual Drenthe fair and the summer music festival.

Best Time to Visit Tynaarlo

The best time to visit Tynaarlo is in the spring or summer when the weather is mild, and the flowers are in full bloom. July and August are high season months in the Netherlands, so expect a lot of tourists during this time. The temperature drops in autumn, but it is still a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tynaarlo

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Greet people with a smile
  • Try the local food and drinks
  • Explore the nature reserves on foot or by bike

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas
  • Litter the surroundings
  • Speak loudly in public places
  • Wear inappropriate clothing to cultural and religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Tynaarlo

Tynaarlo is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rates are low, and the people are friendly and helpful. However, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas, such as marketplaces and public transportation. Always keep your valuables in a safe place and be vigilant.

Health in Tynaarlo

Tynaarlo has excellent healthcare facilities, and the doctors and nurses are highly trained and qualified. The tap water is safe to drink, and the food is generally hygienic. However, if you have any emergency, visit the nearest hospital or contact the emergency services at 112.

Getting to Tynaarlo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tynaarlo is easily accessible from nearby cities and towns, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Tynaarlo

The nearest airport is Groningen Airport Eelde, which is about 10 kilometers away from Tynaarlo. Other nearby airports include Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is about 150 kilometers away, and Bremen Airport, which is about 160 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Tynaarlo

There are several bus stations in the nearby cities of Groningen, Assen, and Zuidlaren, which connect Tynaarlo with various destinations in the region.

Other Options

You can also travel to Tynaarlo by car or taxi. The town is well-connected with the nearby highways, and several taxi services operate in the region.

How to Get Around in Tynaarlo

The best way to get around in Tynaarlo is by bike or on foot. There are several bike rental services available in the town, and you can explore the nearby nature reserves at your own pace. Public transportation is also available, with several bus routes connecting Tynaarlo with nearby cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from Tynaarlo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tynaarlo is a great place to use as a base to explore other nearby destinations:

  • Groningen is a vibrant university city known for its rich cultural scene and excellent shopping. It is just a 20-minute drive or bus ride from Tynaarlo.
  • Assen is the capital city of Drenthe and is famous for its Drents Museum, one of the largest museums in the Netherlands. It is just a 15-minute drive from Tynaarlo.
  • The Wadden Islands are a chain of islands off the coast of the Netherlands, known for their stunning beaches, dunes, and wildlife. They can be reached by ferry from nearby cities such as Harlingen or Lauwersoog.

Conclusion

Tynaarlo is a hidden gem in the Northern Netherlands, offering visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and history of the region, as well as the stunning natural beauty. With several museums and historical sites, beautiful nature reserves, and biking and hiking routes, Tynaarlo has something for everyone. So pack your bags and book your tickets to explore this charming town and its surroundings!