Drenthe unveils 40 safe swimming spots for summer 2026
As summer approaches, the Province of Drenthe has designated 40 official swimming locations to ensure safe and clean water for residents and visitors. Regular testing and public updates via Zwemwater.nl will help families enjoy worry-free swimming from May to October.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of designated swimming locations | 40 |
| Bathing season duration | 1 May – 1 October 2026 |
| Testing frequency | Regular checks for safety and water quality |
| Monitored factors | Turbidity, odour, colour, acidity, bacteria, blue-green algae |
| Public access to results | Zwemwater.nl and Zwemwater App |
| Contact for questions | Province of Drenthe: 0592 – 36 55 55 |
| Legal basis | Environmental and Planning Act |
The Province of Drenthe is responsible for ensuring public safety and environmental quality in recreational waters. Under the Environmental and Planning Act, it designates and monitors official swimming locations to protect swimmers from health risks like bacteria or unsafe conditions.
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Province of Drenthe designates official swimming locations for 2026
Summer is approaching and that means: safe swimming in Drenthe once again. The Provincial Executive has designated 40 official swimming locations for the bathing season this year.
During the bathing season, which runs from 1 May to 1 October, the water at designated swimming locations is regularly tested for safety and quality. Provinces check for safety, among other things, by verifying the demarcation of shallow areas and the steepness of the banks. Water boards test the water for turbidity, odour, colour, acidity and take water samples to check for bacteria and blue-green algae. If necessary, the province may impose a swimming ban or issue a negative swimming advisory. Swimming at locations that have not been designated is discouraged, as no checks are carried out there.
Deputy Henk Emmens: “Many people will soon head to the water to swim and relax. Together with land managers, water boards and municipalities, we ensure that they can do so in a safe and responsible manner. This way, everyone knows where they can swim safely.”
This way, everyone knows where they can swim safely.
Zwemwater.nl
The results of these tests are published by the province during the season on the website Zwemwater.nl and via the Zwemwater App. If there is an issue with the bathing water, the province will place warning signs and inform regional and local media.
For questions, complaints or information, anyone can contact the Province of Drenthe at 0592 – 36 55 55.
Designation of swimming locations
The province designates official swimming locations every year. This is a statutory task under the Environmental and Planning Act. By designating these locations, the province clearly indicates which spots are tested for water quality and safety. The draft decision was available for inspection for six weeks. No objections were submitted during this period.