De Slotplaats Estate is a wonderful place to enjoy in Bakkeveen. Since 1997, Natuurmonumenten has been the owner and manager of this distinctive area, ensuring the preservation and protection of both its rich cultural heritage and its remarkable nature.
Rich history
De Slotplaats Estate was established in 1668, when the Aylva family built a manor here known as the Blauwhuis. In 1838, the Blauwhuis was demolished. Only the manor farm remained, and to this day it stands as the estate’s iconic landmark. The manor farm is not the only feature that brings the past to life; many other elements from earlier times can still be found across the estate. The gardens, designed in French classical and architectural styles, the unique sundial from 1750 in the front garden, the orchard laid out by J.H. Knoop with several rare and historic fruit varieties, the Sterrebos, also created by Knoop and therefore known as the Knoop Forest, the Poppestien, the Beakendyk, the long avenues and tree-lined lanes, the production forests and the Sterrenschans all tell their own story. Anyone with an interest in the past will find plenty to discover at De Slotplaats.
Valuable nature
Extensive woodlands, stately avenues, grasslands, marshy hollows, ponds and heathlands form a diverse and thriving natural landscape. When Natuurmonumenten acquired the estate in 1997, careful consideration was given to transforming the production forests, which were in poor condition at the time, into a vibrant and nature-rich area. Sections of the forest were gradually thinned to allow more light to reach the forest floor and create space for native species. Two hollows were excavated so that parts of the area would remain wetter. In the transition zones between water, shrubs and woodland, heathland was given the opportunity to develop once again.
Special species
The time and attention Natuurmonumenten has invested in managing and developing the estate are reflected in the remarkable animal and plant species found here. The area serves as a habitat and hunting ground for ten different species of bats. Moor frogs and rare dragonflies live in and around the wetter areas. Reptiles such as the adder and the viviparous lizard, both under pressure throughout the Netherlands, have found a home here. The old yet vigorous woodland provides an ideal habitat for woodpeckers and pine martens. Ravens and honey buzzards have also been spotted in the forest. De Slotplaats is equally vital for many less conspicuous species of flora and fauna.
Connection
For many people, De Slotplaats holds special meaning. It may be part of a daily walk with the dog or the place where a first kiss was shared; the estate leaves a lasting impression. That is why Natuurmonumenten is pleased to share this special area with everyone who visits. You are most welcome. The estate offers numerous walking paths, with three marked routes of 1.2 km, 2.5 km and 6 km. The area can also be explored by bicycle. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash, and a designated off-leash area is available. Children can enjoy themselves in the OERRR Nature Play area, which includes a separate section for younger children. If you would like to experience the estate in a different way and learn more about its wildlife, you can join one of the nature excursions organised by Natuurmonumenten.
