Holiday Witterzomer Drenthe

Description

If you’re looking for a laidback place to recharge in Drenthe, Holiday Witterzomer genuinely delivers. I’ve spent a handful of sunny weeks at this vakantiepark, and I’ve always left feeling recharged. Tucked away just outside of Assen, Witterzomer’s location places you right in the heart of centuries-old woods and sprawling fields—a classic Dutch landscape of heather, forest, and sand trails waiting to be discovered. The park itself blends surprisingly well into this scenery, combining modern amenities with the feel of a genuine retreat.

What has always impressed me about Witterzomer is the variety. Whether you want to pitch a tent under towering pines, arrive with your own camper, or opt for one of the stylish holiday homes, there’s a spot here for you. Families fill the main lanes in high season, especially when school holidays roll around, bringing an infectious energy: lots of laughter, children on bikes, the distant sound of swimming pool splashes. But outside of those peaks, the park is quieter—ideal for people like me who sometimes just want a peaceful week to read, hike, and listen to the wind in the trees.

Walking the grounds feels a bit like a scavenger hunt; each path leads to something different. I’ve stumbled across shaded picnic spaces, hidden playgrounds, and a tiny, serene lake occupied by local birds. The buildings are practical but well maintained, with plenty of cozy group spaces for gatherings or, in my case once, an impromptu board game night after a rainy afternoon.

Witterzomer’s proximity to Drenthe’s best cycling and walking routes is another huge bonus. You can borrow a bike (or bring your own) and pedal right from your door onto quiet trails leading through the countryside, past dolmens and sleepy farming villages. For those who want even more adventure, Assen and its museums are only minutes away.

Key Features

• Varied Accommodation: Choose from comfortable holiday homes, spacious group lodges, traditional campsites, or handy hotel rooms. You’ll find options for solo travelers, large families, or even multi-generational trips.
• Large Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool: The pool is the pulse of the park during warmer months. It’s got a shallow end for little ones and plenty of space for older kids and adults—it’s always buzzing on sunny days.
• On-Site Restaurants and Snack Bar: If you’re not in the mood to cook, you’ve got choices—from the welcoming restaurant for breakfast and dinner to the popular snack bar dishing out fries and ice creams.
• Free Parking and Wi-Fi: Parking never feels tricky, no matter how busy it gets. Wi-Fi covers most accommodation, handy for evening planning or a quick video call home.
• Extensive Kids’ Play Areas: Multiple playgrounds, a mini-golf course (great for friendly competition), and sport fields keep young ones entertained for hours. There are also organized kids’ activities during holidays.
• Recreational Lake: A gem for anyone who enjoys peaceful walks, a spot of fishing, or even a brief swim in the summer.
• Group Facilities: Purpose-built spaces can host special events, family reunions, or group trips—flexible and practical.
• Pet-Friendly Options: Certain accommodations welcome your four-legged friends, so you don’t have to leave them behind.
• Bike Rental and Trail Access: You can easily arrange to rent bikes directly—no need to bring your own—unlocking all the famous Drentse fietspaden (cycling routes) right from the park’s entrance.
• Near Assen: You’re only about a 10-minute drive or a leisurely bike ride from Drenthe’s capital city, with its shops, museums, and lively Saturday market.

Best Time to Visit

Timing your visit to Holiday Witterzomer can shape your entire experience. For families, the Dutch summer holiday period (late July through August) is the park’s most dynamic season. Expect full facilities, children’s activities, and a sociable atmosphere. The downside: it’s the busiest time, so book early if you’re aiming for a specific cottage or campsite.

Personally, I enjoy visiting in late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September). These shoulder seasons strike a perfect balance: the weather is usually mild, trees are lush, and you benefit from calmer surroundings. You might even catch the heather in full bloom across the local moorlands—a particularly Dutch sight that’s less crowded compared to major tourist sites.

If you crave solitude, the winter months offer a radically different perspective. While some park amenities scale back, the holiday homes remain cozy with heating, and forest walks turn into frosty adventures. There’s a rare quiet that’s ideal for writers, birdwatchers, or anyone who appreciates a naturally low-key environment.

How to Get There

While the address—Witterzomer 7, 9405 VE Assen—pins it firmly in Drenthe, getting to the park is straightforward. I usually drive, and that seems to be the norm for most visitors, given the ample (and free) on-site parking. For those coming from Amsterdam or Utrecht, the A28 motorway whisks you almost directly to Assen. From the motorway exit, it’s less than 10 minutes through charming rural lanes.

Public transport works, too. Assen station sits on the main line between Groningen and Zwolle. From there, grabbing a taxi or using the seasonal local bus routes can get you to Witterzomer’s gates in about 10–15 minutes. I’ve even met guests who cycle from the station, following the well-marked bike lanes for a scenic introduction to the region.

For international guests, Groningen Airport Eelde is the closest (about 30 minutes by car)—handy for some UK, German, and southern European flights. Larger airports in Amsterdam and Bremen are a bit farther but accessible by train and road.

Tips for Visiting

• Book Early for Busy Times: If you have your heart set on a premium cottage or a preferred camping pitch during Dutch holidays, reserve as early as possible—the choices do fill up.
• Bring Bikes or Rent Onsite: Biking is the best way to experience Drenthe’s iconic landscapes. The park makes it easy by offering rentals, but bringing your own is also straightforward if you have the space.
• Pack for Every Season: Weather in Drenthe can shift quickly. Even in summer, you’ll want layers for cool mornings and the occasional rain shower. In spring or fall, a warm jumper and rainproof jacket are your best friends.
• Explore Local Trails and Dolmens: The prehistoric hunebedden (stone burial chambers) are just a ride or short drive away. Some lesser-known ones near Rolde are typically quiet, offering peaceful, atmospheric photo ops.
• Join the Holiday Activities: In peak months, check out the daily activity schedule—everything from treasure hunts for kids to outdoor movie nights for families. These are organized by friendly staff who really bring the community feel.
• Try the Fresh Breakfasts: I recommend the onsite breakfasts—fresh bread, eggs, fruit, and strong Dutch coffee. It’s a relaxed way to start your day without any cooking stress.
• Use the Free Wi-Fi and Practical Facilities: Whether you’re working remotely or want to keep up with planning, Wi-Fi is reliable in most accommodations. The laundromat comes in handy for longer stays, too.
• Consider Off-Peak: For a quieter, more affordable experience, plan your trip outside the major school holidays—you’ll enjoy the tranquility and will likely get your pick of accommodation.
• Bring Your Dog: If you’re traveling with pets, double check which houses and pitches are pet-friendly, then let Fido join those woodland walks.
• Check-In/Out: Standard check-in is at 2:00 PM, and check-out is relaxed at noon—meaning there’s no rush on that last morning stroll.

Whether you’re seeking action-packed days or a simple, comfortable base for exploring Drenthe, Holiday Witterzomer blends convenience, Dutch hospitality, and just the right touch of nature. I always find myself planning a next visit before I’ve even left!