Camping in Groningen

The Dutch city of Groningen inspires in many ways. It impresses with its lively student flair, historic architecture and picturesque canals. The province of the same name is characterised by its seaside location, particularly in the north. The region is ideal for camping on the beach, but guests also get their money's worth on camping holidays with children or camping in Groningen with their dog.

Special features of camping in Camping Groningen

The province of Groningen is located in the far north-east of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The river Ems forms the eastern border with Germany. Several small islands are located off the north coast, including the Rottumerplaat, which is part of the province, and the elongated island of Schiermonnikoog. The campsites in the north of Groningen are mostly characterised by spaciousness and tranquillity, and the majority of campsites near the provincial capital of Groningen also impress with their wide green spaces and natural design. However, campsites also offer leisure facilities such as indoor swimming pools and outdoor playgrounds as well as services for pet owners such as dog showers. Many campsites offer their own bike hire service for active guests. After all, the Netherlands is not only famous for tulips and Gouda, but also for its passion for climate-friendly transport.

How to get there

Camping holidaymakers from Lower Saxony, the Hamburg and Ruhr areas and the region around Cologne in particular enjoy the short journey to the campsite in Groningen. From the cathedral metropolis on the Rhine, for example, it is only 350 km to the centre of the university city of Groningen. The North Sea coast is only 40 kilometres away.

For campers from the Hanseatic city of Bremen, whose university of applied sciences has a partnership with the university in Groningen, it is just under 200 km to the holiday destination. And if you decide to drive from the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg to the Dutch province, the journey is just under 320 km.

Travellers driving from the German capital to the north-east of the Netherlands in a motorhome or caravan should be prepared for a journey of around 600 km. A stopover halfway along the route, for example in Hanover, is therefore a good idea. After a visit to the Herrenhausen Gardens, the tour can continue in a relaxed manner. For camping fans from the deep south of Germany, it is a good idea to take longer breaks on the journey there and back. On the 850 km journey from Munich to Groningen, a stopover on the Rhine, for example in Koblenz, is an excellent option.

Activities and excursions

Whether surfing or mudflat hiking, stand-up paddling or cycling: Travellers can enjoy a sporty approach while camping in Groningen. As an ideal contrast, the provincial capital with its museums and cultural institutions, shopping opportunities and student bars awaits a visit.

Sporting activities in the Dutch province

The towns along the banks of the Ems, including Farmsum and Delfzijl, are characterised by their harbours and jetties. Passionate hobby captains will get their money's worth here. The reception staff at the campsite will be happy to provide information about boat charters. The coastal foreland with its lakes, rivers and canals is also ideal for water sports activities such as canoeing and stand-up paddling. For example, a stay at a campsite on the Zuidlaardermeer or on the Hoornsemeer south of the city of Groningen is well worthwhile.

Sightseeing and city trips in Groningen

Anyone interested in architecture and culture should not miss out on a trip to the provincial capital. For example, you can marvel at the passage of time at the Martini Church, a church dating back to the 15th century. Another interesting example of modern architecture is the Groninger Museum - an unusual piece of architecture on the outside and an impressive art collection on the inside.

Gastronomy

The proximity to the coast and the river Ems also determines the culinary orientation of the province of Groningen. During the herring season, holidaymakers should not miss out on the classic matjes. The salty, oily pickled herring only really becomes authentic with a generous portion of onions. Other popular delicacies from Neptune's realm are mussels and oysters, which are served in upmarket restaurants in particular.

The cheese selection in the markets and supermarkets is also classically Dutch. Poffertjes, mini versions of pancakes, are also a must for an original breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. The numerous restaurants in the university city of Groningen offer a colourful potpourri of typical Dutch and international dishes.

Best time to visit

The weather in the province of Groningen is characterised by a temperate continental climate. The winter months are characterised by relatively cool temperatures. Daytime temperatures from December to February average between -2 and 5 degrees, with only a few hours of sunshine per day.

This changes in spring: In April, holidaymakers can expect five hours of sunshine a day and the thermometer already climbs into the double-digit range. With six hours of sunshine a day, the early and summer months are perfect for long bike rides and walks on the beach.

July, August and September are also the best months to take a dip in the North Sea. The water temperatures average between 15 and 17 degrees and, even in late autumn, the air temperatures only cool down slowly during the day.