Drenthe launches four new 'Off the Grid' walking routes to combat stress and reconnect with nature
Drenthe introduces four new walking routes designed to help visitors disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature. These routes offer a mindful escape, encouraging relaxation and reflection while promoting sustainable interaction with the environment.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Routes | 4 |
| Locations | Spier (6.5 km), Noordsche Veld (6 km), Drouwen (9 km), Diever (7 km) |
| Unique Features | Phone lockers at start points, reflective route signs, 'Zinzitter' spots |
| Funding Source | Province of Drenthe |
| Partners Involved | Marketing Drenthe, Recreatieschap Drenthe, Staatsbosbeheer |
| Research Insight | 86% of Dutch people experience stress; 74% seek more relaxation |
| Campaign Goal | Promote relaxation, mindfulness, and nature-inclusive behavior |
| Website for More Info | drenthe.nl/buitenbereik |
The Province of Drenthe, in collaboration with local organizations like Staatsbosbeheer and Marketing Drenthe, plays a key role in promoting recreation and sustainable tourism. These initiatives aim to enhance well-being by encouraging mindful interaction with nature while raising awareness about environmental care.
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Read the full translated article below
Go 'Off the Grid' with New Walking Routes in Drenthe
Four new "Off the Grid" walking routes have been developed in Drenthe by Marketing Drenthe, Recreatieschap Drenthe, and Staatsbosbeheer. Walkers are encouraged to consciously disconnect and experience nature mindfully by slowing down and engaging their senses. The routes have been made possible thanks to a financial contribution from the Province of Drenthe.
Recreation in Drenthe often revolves around exploring and experiencing the province, but it doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Willemien Meeuwissen: "With the 'Off the Grid' campaign, we highlight what’s right on your doorstep: beautiful routes and the chance to enjoy valuable landscapes. The campaign invites you to step away from the hustle and, in silence and relaxation, discover what makes Drenthe special."
Route signs with short reflections and a unique quiet spot: the Zinzitter
The four routes follow existing paths in Drenthe’s nature areas managed by Staatsbosbeheer near Spier (6.5 km), Noordsche Veld (6 km), Drouwen (9 km), and Diever (7 km). At the starting points of Drouwen and Noordsche Veld, walkers can charge their phones in a locker. This ensures they are truly off the grid, leaving with both themselves and their phones recharged. Along the way, special route signs with short questions and reflections guide the walk. These aren’t meant to provide ready-made answers but to create space for thought. Halfway through each route, a ‘Zinzitter’ awaits—a subtle spot in the landscape where visitors can sit, observe, and simply be. The structures were designed by Tralaluna and Boomhutbeleving. View the routes at drenthe.nl/buitenbereik.
Days filled with stimuli
In a world overflowing with stimuli and packed schedules, there is an increasing need for peace and reflection. Research* shows that as many as 86% of Dutch people experience stress in daily life, and of that group, 74% say they need more relaxation. "With these new walking routes, we hope to contribute to that moment of relaxation. We invite visitors to Drenthe to set out consciously. No phone, no distractions—just a chance to recharge," says Astrid Crum of Marketing Drenthe.
Valuable collaboration to raise awareness
With these routes, the partners aim to raise awareness. Because it’s not just people who need time to recharge—the natural world does too. While 95% of Dutch people say they treat nature with care, a third admit they were a disruptive factor in nature last year*.
Staatsbosbeheer emphasizes the valuable collaboration behind this project: "With 'Off the Grid,' we aim to offer more than just relaxation. By encouraging visitors to pause and reflect on their impact on nature—and vice versa—we hope to foster lasting awareness. This includes more careful interaction with nature, respect for the landscape, and attention to the impact of one’s own behavior," says Els Hogenkamp, Provincial Head of Staatsbosbeheer.
Part of a national campaign by Marketing Drenthe
The walking routes are part of Marketing Drenthe’s national campaign. The "Off the Grid" theme extends beyond the routes themselves. The campaign highlights how Drenthe is the perfect place to truly unwind, step away from the noise, and make time for what truly matters. It also promotes awareness, encouraging nature-inclusive behavior.
For more information, visit the page about the four new 'Off the Grid' walking routes in Drenthe by Marketing Drenthe.
*The research by Marketing Drenthe was conducted by PanelWizard between March 6 and March 15, 2024, among a representative sample of 1,078 Dutch people.
The opening of the walking routes (from left to right: Willemien Meeuwissen - Deputy of the Province of Drenthe, Els Hogenkamp - Head of Staatsbosbeheer, Astrid Crum – Marketing Drenthe, Gerrie Hempen – Chair of Recreatieschap Drenthe.