Traversed by a network of canals, Drachten is one of the largest towns in the Dutch province of Friesland. It was established in the Middle Ages on the site of peat bogs, which were exploited for around 200 years as a source of fuel. Drachten flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries as a shipbuilding hub for the construction of timber flatboats and iron hull vessels.
Things to do in Drachten
In the heart of Drachten is the Grote Kerk, a 1743-built church that houses a magnificent organ by J.A. Hillebrand. Admire its wooden gable tower and barrel-vaulted ceiling, together with the Louis XV-style pulpit. The church also features beautiful stained-glass windows made by Jurjen and Ype Staak in the 18th century.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Museum Dr8888, which houses a large collection of works from the De Stijl and Dada movements. Artists such as Theo van Doesburg and Kurt Schwitters are represented in the gallery spaces, together with Thijs Rijnsema and Ids Wiersma. In the surrounding Parrot District, you’ll find colourful houses designed by Cees Rienks de Boer that were influenced by the De Stijl movement.
West of Drachten is De Alde Feanen National Park, which encompasses 25 square kilometres of lakes, forests and meadows. More than 450 plant species have been recorded within its boundaries, together with around 100 different birds. Stretch your legs on the walking trail that leads to the 18th-century windmill of De Ikkers while keeping your eyes peeled for white storks.
Getting around Drachten
Drachten is around 30 minutes’ drive from Groningen and 35 minutes from Groningen Airport Eelde, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Drachten and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.