Explore the rugged peat landscape and pioneering history of Drenthe with this beautiful motorcycle route. From vast swamps and historic canals to hidden villages and old oil fields: this tour takes you through a unique part of the Netherlands. Winding roads, open plains and exciting bends ensure a fantastic driving experience. Along the way you will pass impressive sights such as the Stieltjeskanaal, the Veenpark and the famous nodding donkey at Schoonebeek. An adventurous ride through a landscape that once formed the basis for peat extraction and the oil industry.

You start at Wegrestaurant Otten in Coevorden, a place that has been a household name among drivers and travelers since 1975. From here you dive straight into the Drenthe countryside, where you drive along the historic Stieltjeskanaal. This narrow waterway, once constructed for the peat trade, now lies peacefully and forms an atmospheric backdrop as you drive along the winding roads. The route then takes you to Dalen, a charming village with old mills and a cozy village center. Here you can stop for a short walk or a cup of coffee on a terrace. Not much later you drive through Veenoord and Nieuw-Amsterdam, known for the time that Vincent van Gogh spent here. The Van Gogh House is an interesting stop for those who want to follow in the footsteps of the artist. Then follows a highlight of the route: the Veenpark in Barger-Compascuum. This open-air museum takes you back in time and shows how peat workers once lived and worked here. With narrow-gauge trains and old houses, it is a special place to reflect on the history of the area.
The roads become more exciting as you head towards Schoonebeek, where you will come across the iconic pumpjack. This remnant of the Dutch oil industry is an impressive sight and a perfect photo opportunity. From here you enter Germany, where the route winds further through the border area. After a stretch of beautiful open roads you come to the Coevorden-Piccardie Canal, an idyllic spot with old locks and green banks. An ideal place to stretch your legs and enjoy the water. Then you cross back into the Netherlands and reach the Raiffeisen Tankstelle, a handy stop to refuel before starting the final stretch.
Via quiet back roads and winding paths you return to Coevorden, where you arrive again at Wegrestaurant Otten. Time to enjoy an adventurous ride through one of the most special landscapes of the Netherlands.

The Pionier Veen en Moorroute is a journey through a fascinating landscape full of history, natural beauty and great roads. The combination of the Drenthe peat, old industry and winding roads makes this tour highly recommended. Whether you like history, nature or just a great piece of motorcycling, this route has it all. A ride you won't soon forget!