Veenpark in Barger-Compascuum is one of the Netherlands’ most fascinating open-air
museums. It brings the history of the Dutch peat colonies to life through traditional houses,
workshops, and working windmills. Visitors can explore the recreated peat village, ride a
small train through the wetlands, and experience how people lived and worked in
Drenthe’s peatlands over a century ago.
Located just outside Emmen, Veenpark is both educational and enjoyable, offering a
perfect mix of culture, nature, and nostalgia for families and history lovers.
- 🏠 Step inside the historic peat village 🏡 to see old world houses 🏠
- 🚂 Board a vintage steam train 🚃 for a ride through the fields 🚂
- 🌬️ Watch the traditional windmills 🪵 spinning in the Dutch breeze 🌬️
- 📖 Study the regional peat industry ⛏️ inside the informative museum 📖
- 🥨 Taste delicious local snacks 🥯 at the family activity centers 🥨
- 🚗 Drive from nearby Emmen 🛣️ to find the park entrance 🚗
- 🚌 Catch a local bus 🚌 from the main train station 🚌
- 🚲 Pedal through the scenic countryside 🌳 on a fast bicycle 🚲
- 🅿️ Use the free parking lot 🚘 located right on the site 🅿️
- 📍 Follow the clear signs 🧭 toward the Barger Compascuum village 📍
- 👟 Put on sturdy walking shoes 🥾 for the outdoor village paths 👟
- 🛶 Arrive in the early morning 🌅 to beat the boat queues 🛶
- 💶 Carry some spare cash 💸 for the small local shops 💶
- 🌿 Visit the Bargerveen reserve 🦆 for a dose of nature 🌿
- 🌦️ Bring a light rain jacket 🧥 in case the weather changes 🌦️
- 🏚️ 10:00 AM – Arrive and explore the historic peat village 🏘️ near the entrance 🏚️
- 🚞 11:30 AM – Take the heritage train 🚂 through the soggy wetlands 🚞
- 🍴 12:30 PM – Have a traditional lunch 🍲 at the park café 🍴
- 🛠️ 1:30 PM – Visit the various workshops 🔨 to see local crafts 🛠️
- 📜 3:00 PM – Stop by the Peat Museum 🏛️ to learn the history 📜
- 🚤 4:00 PM – Relax on a peaceful boat 🛶 before heading home 🚤
