City walk Emmen

Stroll through the vibrant center of the city of Emmen and then find peace in one of Drenthe's oldest forests: the Emmerdennen. After that, take a walk back to the center of Emmen for a cup of coffee in one of the many cafés.
Emmen was originally an Esdorp, as evidenced by the (partially) existing ashes and banks. The first mention of Emmen in a document from Bishop Andries of Cuijk dates back to 1139, where a farm in Emne is mentioned. However, the area where Emmen is located today was inhabited by Neanderthals long before 1139, as the archaeological finds of flint tools show. The presence of burial mounds and grave hills from prehistoric times (5,000 years old) along the route are the clearest signs of early settlement.
Emmen is also referred to as the "open, green city." New residential areas have been built away from the city center to preserve the natural areas within the city. The former 'Noorder Dierenpark', which has since been relocated and renamed 'WILDLANDS Aventure Zoo Emmen', has made Emmen world-famous and earned it the nickname "Butterfly City." This hiking route takes you through the center of Emmen along 10 attractions. The family route passes through the Emmerdennen but can also be shortened to 5 km.
This unmarked route begins at Villa De Lindenhof at Hoofdstraat 26, where the Tourist Info Emmen office is located. Nearby, you can park for a fee at various designated spots.