't Nije Hemelriek, lake in Aa en Hunze, Netherlands

't Nije Hemelriek is a lake in the Gieten-Borger forest in the Dutch municipality of Aa en Hunze. It features a sandy beach built by Staatsbosbeheer, with a shallow pond called Hemelriekje and a deeper lake known as Blauwe Gat to the west.

Sand extraction began in the area in 1946 by the Jonker family, and the resulting lake became known as Jonkersgat. Until 2014, coarse sand was mined for construction, after which the lake was repurposed for recreation.

The name 't Nije Hemelriek refers to the nearby pond Hemelriekje, and locals often use the beach for family outings and swimming. The area is also known for the Blauwe Gat, whose name comes from the blue color of the clay acid in the water.

The beach area has facilities for families, and the surrounding forest offers paths for walking and cycling. Visitors should note that the water in the deeper lake can be cold and that some areas may have soft sand or uneven ground.

The lake's blue color comes from clay acid, which gives the water a distinct appearance. Visitors might also notice that the beach is named after the small pond Hemelriekje, which is separate from the larger lake.