Let me take you on a sun-kissed, laughter-filled escape through Elim, Hoogeveen, and the wider Drenthe countryside in the Netherlands. I’m all about active adventures, weekend–long memories with friends, and finding the perfect vacation rentals that welcome wagging tails as much as they welcome us. In this corner of the Netherlands, you’ll trade big-city buzz for winding lanes, earthy aromas from farmyards, and a playful vibe that makes every day feel like a mini-holiday. Whether you’re chasing pet-friendly accommodations, sunny cycling routes, or cozy evenings with a view, Drenthe delivers. And for planning your stay, it’s easy to discover vacation rentals and holiday homes that match your vibe at searchandstay.com.
Elim and Hoogeveen: two gateways to Drenthe’s outdoor playground
Elim is a quiet village that feels miles away from the hustle, yet Hoogeveen is only a short bike ride or drive away, offering a lively town center, markets, and cafés with that friendly Dutch warmth. Drenthe itself is a paradise for explorers: lush forests, open heath landscapes, charming villages, and a sprinkle of ancient history in the form of dolmen and prehistoric sites. You’ll notice that Elim and Hoogeveen work beautifully as base camps for all your pet-friendly vacation rental adventures because you’re never too far from a riverbank stroll, a forest trail, or a family-friendly activity with a pet in tow.
From Elim you can hop onto cycling routes that wind toward Hoogeveen and beyond, where you’ll find community parks, playgrounds for kids, and tranquil spots by canals perfect for a picnic with the gang and your four-legged friend. If a day in the city feels right, Hoogeveen’s center offers bakeries, eateries, and small boutiques to explore between photo-worthy moments along the streets. It’s the kind of place where you can slip into a weekend vibe quickly, then switch gears when you’re ready for a longer nature day.
Pet friendly rentals: what to expect in Drenthe
Drenthe’s vacation rental scene includes a wide range of pet-friendly options designed to make traveling with dogs or cats easy and enjoyable. Expect accommodations that welcome pets with open arms, friendly hosts, and spaces that make it simple to keep up with your daily routines—whether that’s a big living room for post-hike stretches, a fenced yard for safe roaming, or nearby trails that are perfect for longer morning walks. In Elim and Hoogeveen, you’ll find:
- Cozy country cottages and farm stays where your dog can sniff around the doorstep and you can sip coffee on a sunlit porch.
- Modern vacation homes with open-plan living, pet-safe furnishings, and private gardens.
- Glamping options and scenic cabins that pair outdoor splash with indoor comfort—great when you want to stay connected to nature without compromising on amenities.
- Family-friendly rentals with multi-bedroom layouts perfect for groups of friends traveling together with pets.
- Caravan and camper options that bring you closer to the outdoors with the flexibility to move between scenic spots along the Drenthe countryside.
Booking tips for pet lovers: look for places labeled as “pet-friendly” or “pets welcome,” check if there are any size or breed restrictions, confirm the number of pets allowed, and review yard or garden security details. Many hosts in Drenthe offer practical touches like fenced yards, nearby woodland trails, and easy access to grassy areas for toilet breaks—things that make outdoor days with friends and pups that much smoother.
Finding the right place: how to choose vacation rentals in Elim and Hoogeveen
When you’re chasing vacation rentals or holiday rentals in Drenthe, a few criteria help you compare options quickly: pet-friendly status, proximity to nature trails, and the vibe of the space for your crew. For me, it’s about sparkly mornings on a sunlit patio, dog-friendly paths just steps away, and a kitchen that inspires late-night snack sessions after a sunset bike ride.
To streamline the search, consider filtering for the following on your rental platform of choice:
- Pet-friendly accommodations with clear pet policies and any extra fees explained.
- Outdoor space such as a fenced yard, terrace, balcony, or garden access for your dog to stretch its legs.
- Proximity to Drenthe’s top outdoor experiences—Dwingelderveld National Park, Hunebedden sites near Borger or Havelte, and easy access to Hoogeveen’s town amenities.
- Stays with bike storage or easy access to bike rental points, since cycling is one of the best ways to explore Elim and Hoogeveen.
For a focused search across Elim, Hoogeveen, and the broader Drenthe region, visit searchandstay.com. It’s a handy resource to find vacation rentals and holiday homes, with filters that help you zero in on pet-friendly options, suitable sizes for your group, and the kind of locales that align with a fun, active travel style.
Top activities and local experiences in Drenthe you don’t want to miss
Drenthe is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and social butterflies who love holidays with friends. Here are some experiences I love when I’m traveling with a crew and a pup in tow:
- Bike adventures through the Dwingelderveld National Park and surrounding forests. The network of quiet lanes makes it easy to cover miles without fighting traffic, and you’ll often spot grazing sheep and birds that make you feel like you’ve escaped to a national park postcard.
- Exploring Hunebedden (megalithic tombs) near Borger, Havelte, and Emmen. It’s fascinating to learn about the ancient landscape while enjoying a scenic stroll with friends and dogs along easy trails.
- Forest hikes along the Drentsche Aa landscape, a pristine river valley with winding trails, perfect for post-lunch coffee stops in village cafés.
- Small-town markets and cafés in Hoogeveen where you can sample local treats, chat with hosts, and plan your next day’s adventures with a map spread out on the table.
- Family-friendly theme days at nearby attractions like Drouwenerzand, a theme park with rides and amusements that are enjoyable for the whole group, especially after a long bike ride.
- Atlantic-to-Drenthe day trips to nearby towns with historic centers and riverfronts for late-afternoon strolls and sunset photos with your travel squad and pets.
For water lovers, there are lakes and calm canals to paddle or kayak along—drift a little, take in the scenery, and let the conversation drift as easily as the breeze. The region’s pace invites you to slow down just enough to savor the moment while still chasing the next adventure.
Sample itineraries: 3 to 4 days of pet-friendly Drenthe fun
Here are flexible ideas you can mix and match depending on your travel dates, group size, and how much you want to move around versus unwind in one place:
Arrive in Elim, settle into your pet-friendly rental, take a relaxed stroll along the village lanes, and enjoy a sunset drink at a local café in Hoogeveen. Dinner at a welcoming family restaurant with outdoor seating where dogs are allowed on the terrace. - Day 2: Bike to Dwingelveld or a forest loop near Hoogeveen, stopping for a riverside picnic. Afternoon visit to Hunebedden near Borger for a mix of history and scenic walking. Evening back at your rental with a home-cooked meal and a group game on the porch.
- Day 3: Day trip to Drouwenerzand for a little thrills and family-friendly fun, then a relaxed dinner in Hoogeveen with a stroll through the town center. If you’re up for it, a nightcap at a cozy pub with outdoor seating and friendly staff who welcome four-legged guests.
- Day 4: A gentle morning hike along the Drentsche Aa landscape, followed by a late lunch at a gustatory stop in Elim. Departure with plenty of photos and memories ready to share.
Dining, culture, and nightlife with friends (pet-friendly options included)
Drenthe’s culinary scene is surprisingly diverse. In Elim and Hoogeveen you’ll find rustic cafes offering hearty Dutch staples, international fare, and light bites that are perfect after a day of activities. Pet-friendly options are increasingly common on the terraces, so you can sip a local beer while your companion lounges by your chair. For a fun, flirtatious vibe that’s still family-friendly, look for places with outdoor seating and live music on weekends.
When you plan evenings during your stay, consider these ideas:
- Picnic nights at a scenic overlook or by a calm canal—bring a blanket, a cheese board, and a map of your favorite trails.
- Casual dinners with shared-tasting menus or tapas-style plates so everyone can try a bit of everything.
- Evening strolls through Hoogeveen’s center to browse boutiques and pick up fresh pastries for the morning after.
Tip: always confirm pet-friendly seating options at restaurants and check if there’s outdoor heater coverage for cooler evenings. Many places are happy to accommodate, especially if you arrive as a friendly and well-behaved group with a well-traveled dog in tow.
Practical tips for a smooth trip with pets
To ensure your trip to Elim, Hoogeveen, and the Drenthe region goes off without a hitch, keep these practical pointers in mind:
- Confirm pet policies in advance and inquire about any additional cleaning fees or pet deposits with your chosen vacation rental.
- Pack essentials: a comfy bed or blanket for your pet, a leash, waste bags, portable bowls, and a photo of your pet’s vaccination records if required by hosts.
- Plan walkable routes with your group that include shaded areas for sunny days and quiet lanes away from heavy traffic for safe morning and evening strolls.
- Weather in Drenthe can be variable. Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear for you and your pup, and a sun hat for sunny days in the countryside.
- Respect local rules in nature reserves and on farm lands. Some areas may require dogs to be on a leash or under voice control in certain zones.
Booking your stay through a site like searchandstay.com can simplify these steps by letting you filter specifically for pet-friendly options, suitable pet counts, and distance from your favorite activities in Elim and Hoogeveen.
Why Drenthe is the ultimate pet-friendly vacation rental destination
Drenthe offers a unique blend of tranquil rural landscapes, friendly towns, and a history-laden countryside. It’s the kind of place where you can trade traffic and noise for quiet morning light on a forest trail, where a lazy afternoon by a canal pairs perfectly with a shared picnic, and where friends can gather for evenings that feel both cozy and lively. It’s also a destination that understands travelers who bring pets along, with many properties designed to be welcoming and practical for dogs and cats alike. The result is a vacation rental experience that truly feels like a home away from home—the kind of place you want to return to, again and again.
Nearby experiences and day trips to enrich your Drenthe stay
While your base in Elim or Hoogeveen is ideal for daily adventures, consider expanding your itinerary with these neighboring experiences to round out your trip:
Discover Europe’s largest area of wet heath and enjoy expansive views, diverse birdlife, and well-marked trails suitable for all fitness levels. A must for nature lovers and pet-friendly explorers. - Hunebedden and Drenthe’s ancient lore: Explore the prehistoric stone graves near Borger and Havelte, with interpretive centers that make for engaging family-friendly stops.
- Drouwenerzand: A fun, family-oriented attraction offering outdoor entertainment and opportunities for great photos after a long day on foot or bike.
- Local markets and artisan shops: In Hoogeveen, you’ll often find weekend markets with crafts, fresh produce, and friendly chat opportunities with locals who are proud to share tips about their region.
Final thoughts and a friendly nudge to plan your trip
Elim and Hoogeveen are wonderfully placed to serve as your base for a Drenthe vacation that balances physical activity, social moments, and restful downtime. Whether you’re organizing a biking weekend with friends, a dog-friendly countryside escape, or a multi-day itinerary that pairs forest walks with hill-top sunrises, you’ll find pet-friendly rentals ready to welcome you. The Netherlands’ Drenthe region invites you to slow down, savor the scenery, and celebrate small moments with great company. And when you’re ready to lock in the perfect place for your crew, remember to explore searchandstay.com to filter for pet-friendly options in Elim, Hoogeveen, and the broader Drenthe area.
Ready to start planning? Check availability, read host reviews, and compare vacation rentals and holiday homes that match your date, budget, and pet needs. Your Drenthe holiday, filled with outdoor adventures and shared laughter, awaits.