Strubben-Kniphorstbos, Archaeological nature reserve and former military training area in Drenthe, Netherlands
The Strubben-Kniphorstbos is a nature reserve covering about 380 hectares of land situated between the villages of Anloo and Schipborg in Drenthe province. The terrain features forests, heathland, and gnarled oak growth that spreads across the site, interspersed with ancient burial structures and stone monuments.
The site was established as a military training ground in 1938 and served this purpose for roughly 70 years. After military activities ceased in 2006, the area received designation as an archaeological national monument.
Two dolmens, D7 and D8, stand as visible reminders of the ancient people who once inhabited this region. Together with around 60 burial mounds scattered across the land, these monuments tell the story of communities that lived here thousands of years ago and chose this place for their dead.
The site is commonly accessed from the inn De Rustende Jager in Eext, which provides free parking for visitors. From there, guests can explore the area on foot or by bicycle using established trails that wind through the reserve.
The name originates from the gnarled oak growth known locally as strubben and from a former landowner named Gerrit Kniphorst. This dual naming base shows how natural features and personal history can combine to shape a location's identity.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
