Beilen
,Beilen is a small town located in the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands. It is known for its picturesque countryside with lush fields and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The town also features charming traditional Dutch architecture, including historic buildings and windmills.
With a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, Beilen offers a tranquil setting for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of rural Netherlands.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Nature Walk in Beilen
morning
:Start your day with a peaceful nature walk in the beautiful surroundings of Beilen. Enjoy the fresh air and the sound of birds as you stroll through scenic trails.
afternoon
:Visit the local museum to discover the rich history of Beilen and its surroundings. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local culture.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant. Savor the local delicacies and enjoy a quiet atmosphere to reflect on your day.
Cycling Adventure
morning
:Rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque countryside around Beilen. The fresh morning breeze and beautiful landscapes will invigorate your senses.
afternoon
:Stop for a picnic by a lake or in a park, enjoying some local treats you packed. The serene environment is perfect for a midday break.
evening
:Return to Beilen and treat yourself to a warm meal at a traditional Dutch diner. The friendly atmosphere and home-cooked meals will be a nice end to your day's adventure.
Highlights
Good
- Quiet, rural atmosphere with a close-knit community.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
- Good local amenities and services for residents.
- Rich cultural history and preserved architecture.
- Proximity to larger cities like Assen and Groningen for additional services and entertainment.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities within the town itself, requiring commute.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent compared to larger urban areas.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potentially limited access to specialized healthcare facilities.
- Variable weather conditions, which can be rainy and chilly.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Biking Trails
Explore the beautiful countryside around Beilen with numerous biking trails. The scenic routes take you through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
Hiking in the Drentsche Aa National Park
Discover the natural beauty of Drentsche Aa with well-marked hiking paths. Enjoy the tranquility of the unique peat bogs and heathlands.
Fishing at the Beilervaart Canal
Try your luck at fishing in the Beilervaart Canal. The area is known for its diverse fish population and serene spots perfect for relaxation.
Outdoor Picnics in Park Hoge Berg
Visit Park Hoge Berg for a lovely family picnic. The park offers spacious green fields, playgrounds, and shaded areas for a relaxing day out.
Horseback Riding
Join one of the local stables for horseback riding sessions in the surrounding nature. Suitable for all skill levels, it's a great way to explore the area.
Kayaking on the Drentse Hoofdkanaal
Kayak along the Drentse Hoofdkanaal for a fun and adventurous experience on the water, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Beilen with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Parks and Nature Reserves
Beilen offers several parks and nature reserves where visitors can capture stunning landscapes, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
The Beilen Windmill
A traditional Dutch windmill located in Beilen provides a beautiful backdrop for photographs and is a perfect spot for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Historic Town Center
The charming architecture and historic buildings in the town center create great opportunities for photography, especially with lively street scenes.
Nearby Canals
The canals in and around Beilen offer picturesque reflections and scenic views, ideal for nature and aquatic photography.
Local Farms and Fields
The countryside surrounding Beilen features vibrant fields and farms that provide rich landscapes for photography, especially during the blooming seasons.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stoofpeertjes
Stewed pears, typically cooked with cinnamon, cloves, and sugar. Served as a side dish to many meat-based meals.
Must-Try!
Groninger koek
A spiced honey cake often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, showcasing the influence of the neighboring province of Groningen.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beilen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Beilen Saturday Market
Visit the bustling Saturday market to sample locally produced cheeses, freshly baked bread, seasonal fruits, and artisanal pastries. Be sure to try the freshly made stroopwafels.
Vleesboom Food Truck
Look out for the Vleesboom food truck offering a variety of traditional Dutch snacks such as bitterballen and frikandellen, perfect for a quick and tasty street food experience.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Beilen, it is common to greet with a firm handshake and to maintain eye contact. A polite 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' is appreciated. When meeting someone for the first time, it's customary to use titles and last names unless invited to use first names.
Punctuality
Being on time is an important cultural norm in Beilen and the Netherlands in general. Arriving late may be seen as disrespectful. It’s advised to plan ahead and arrive a few minutes early for appointments and social gatherings.
Respect for Personal Space
Dutch people value personal space and may feel uncomfortable with close proximity during conversations. It's important to maintain a comfortable distance while speaking and to be mindful of body language that may invade personal boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beilen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In the Netherlands, tipping is generally not mandatory, as a service charge is typically included in the bill at restaurants and other service establishments. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change as a tip for good service. In Beilen, as in the rest of the country, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving around 5-10% is appreciated but not expected.
Payment
Payment practices in Beilen are modern and varied. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash remains a valid form of payment, but some smaller businesses may prefer card payments. ATMs are readily available throughout the town for those who need to withdraw cash.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beilen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Beilen, occurring from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit as flowers bloom and temperatures begin to rise. Expect mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. It's perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying local parks.
Summer
Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C. This is the peak tourist season. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor festivals, cycling, and exploring the nearby countryside. Expect longer days with plenty of sunshine.
Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. Expect temperatures to range from 10°C to 17°C. This season is ideal for nature walks and enjoying the changing colors of the landscape, though rain may become more frequent.
Winter
Winter in Beilen lasts from December to February, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C. Visitors can expect cold weather, occasional snowfall, and a peaceful ambiance. It's a good time for cozy indoor activities and experiencing local Christmas markets.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking Trail Beilen
A scenic trail that offers diverse landscapes, including forests and open fields. Ideal for nature lovers and suitable for all hiking levels.
Dwingelderveld National Park
Located just a short drive from Beilen, this park features beautiful heathlands, peat bogs, and diverse flora and fauna. Several marked hiking paths are available.
Rondje Beilen
A circular hiking route around Beilen that showcases the picturesque countryside, small villages, and historic sites along the way.
Drentsche AA National Park
A bit further from Beilen, this national park offers a network of walking paths through stunning landscapes of streams, forests, and heath. Perfect for a day hike.
De Onlanden Nature Reserve
This area features a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands and meadows. Multiple trails are available for hiking enthusiasts to explore.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Beilen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Beilen by plane.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
The largest and busiest airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 150 km southwest of Beilen.
Bremen Airport (BRE)
International airport located in Bremen, Germany, roughly 150 km southeast of Beilen.
Hamburg Airport (HAM)
One of the major international airports in Germany, located about 250 km northeast of Beilen.
Eindhoven Airport (EIN)
A regional airport in the Netherlands, located around 170 km south of Beilen.
Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)
An international airport serving the southwestern Netherlands, approximately 190 km southwest of Beilen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dutch
The majority demographic group in Beilen, Netherlands, consisting of native Dutch individuals.
Immigrants
Includes various ethnic groups from different countries due to migration patterns over the years.
Elderly Population
A significant demographic group reflecting the aging population in the Netherlands.
Young Professionals
Young adults who are part of the workforce, often including those who have moved for employment opportunities.
Families with Children
Households with children, contributing to local schools and community activities.
The Soul of Beilen
Discover the essence of Beilen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Beilen, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and a strong community support.
Field Hockey
Field hockey has a significant following in Beilen, with various clubs encouraging youth participation and offering competitive teams.
Volleyball
Volleyball is played both indoors and on the beach in Beilen, with several teams and clubs promoting the sport at different levels.
Running
Running is a favorite pastime in Beilen, with locals often participating in organized races and community runs throughout the year.
Cycling
Cycling is widely popular in Beilen, supported by various cycling paths and events that encourage both competitive and recreational biking.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many local restaurants and cafes in Beilen provide a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like freshly prepared salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based sandwiches.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives at several eateries, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts prepared with care to cater to dietary requirements.