AMBEARSSADOR'S
BEAR RETREAT
SUMMER 2026
TREAT YOURSELF TO A BEAR RETREAT!
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3
Exciting Days
Welcome to the Bear Summer Retreat of 2026
Prepare yourself for the Summer Edition of Bear Retreat and discover the Netherlands like never before. After a successful first Bear Kamp edition of our retreat in Friesland that completely sold out in 2025, we are relocating to a larger venue in a different part of the Netherlands. We have found a breathtaking new location in the northeastern area of the country on the border of Drenthe and Groningen that blends rustic farm charm with luxury and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for us bears and our pals who enjoy indulging in something special!
When
Friday 14 - Sunday 16 of August, 2026
Where
Berenboerderij, 2e Exloërmond, Drenthe, The Netherlands
For whom
All the amazing guys in the Bear Community and their friends
More men, a wider range of activities, and more choices for spending the weekend—from a comfortable bed in the manor farmhouse, a private suite, or bringing your own tent, caravan, or campervan to stay on the campsite—you can select the option that suits you best!
Experience a fully catered men's weekend for the Bear Community and their friends. As we transition to a more spacious setting with a delightful rural farm ambiance, we can accommodate more overnight guests. Here, you can unwind in a traditional alcove bed known as Bedstee in Dutch, or choose from other enchanting rooms and even a few private suites. All rooms, all equipped with luxuriously made beds, towels, Rituals products and sanitary facilities. Join in on your own, as a couple or a group. We have room for everyone. The new location also offers the possibility to attend the event with your own tent, caravan or campervan at a neighboring campsite just across the street. A wish that we heard and are now making a reality. And as soon as we are fully booked in the farmhouse we will also offer a stay in glamping bell tents in the orchard, it is like a hotelroom but with a zipper instead of a door!
100+
Guests possible
Buy Your Tickets Today And Treat Yourself..
Enjoy
All kinds of Activities & Workshops
This Bear Retreat presents a broader selection of activities and workshops. What will you choose to do? Something enjoyable and laid-back, or perhaps something more energetic? Will it be a physical endeavor or an activity that engages the mind?
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream
Join us for a one-of-a-kind workshop that everyone will love. We are off to De Venehoeve to discover the enchanting world of ice cream making. At this organic dairy farm, you will learn how to craft delicious, farm-fresh ice cream using organic milk from their own cows, step by step. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, let your creativity flow with unique flavors, and relish the joy of your own creation! Throughout this workshop, you will gain hands-on experience with milk, cream, and various flavorings. Naturally, there will be ample tasting – and you'll have the chance to enjoy your homemade ice cream that very evening at the barbecue!
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub all the bears in a hot tub, and for that added touch of relaxation, immerse yourself in wellness with our daily Finish sauna infusions to start and end your day. Join us at the manor farmhouse sauna, where our sauna master will welcome you with open arms. You can also indulge in Kuusi scrubs along with beard and facial masks.
During the day and into the evening, you are welcome to enjoy all wellness facilities at your convenience. Take advantage of the chance to savor the pools, relax in the hot tubs, refresh yourself in the sauna, and lounge on the sunbeds.
This is exactly what you desire and will receive!
Indulge yourself with some fine Whiskeys
Whiskey enthusiasts can treat themselves to something extraordinary by participating in the Whiskey Tasting Workshop. Here, our whiskey expert Patrick will guide you through a diverse array of whiskeys and share tips on how to enhance your enjoyment! Don't miss out on this unique experience—add it to your ticket purchase!
Up the Paths, Down the Lanes
Get ready to discover this breathtaking region of the Netherlands, whether on foot or by bike. We provide walking routes and even free bikes for your convenience! Don't forget to wear your walking shoes and prepare for a stroll or an extended hike. The landscape will enchant you with its many hunebeds dating back to the Ice Age. Rivers that once flowed beneath the ice have shaped the hills and ridges of the land, which is why it’s known as Hondsrug or ‘Dog’s back’ in Dutch. Alternatively, hop on the bus that stops right in front of the farmhouse and take a journey to one of the nearby villages or cities. We’re here to offer you some great tips!
On-site Fitness Center for Sporty Bears and Gym Lovers
You don't have to skip your gym routine at the Berenboerderij. On the first floor, we provide a compact on-site gym equipped with various machines to help you stay fit. Additionally, outside, you can discover some fun sports activities like table tennis, basketball, and more. Give them a try!
Say Cheese at the Cheese Making Workshop!
Besides clogs, windmills, and a range of other things, what else is the Netherlands renowned for? Of course, cheese! Now, you have the opportunity to craft your own cheese at a dairy farm, guided by the farmer's wife who is eager to share stories about the farm, the cows, the milk, and the wonderful cheese you can create from it. A comprehensive 3-hour journey from milk to curd to cheese! Enjoy a tour of the farm and the farmyard, including coffee or tea with a homemade cookie. Plus: you get to take your handmade cheese home! You won't find anything more Dutch than this, so make sure to grab your additional ticket for this workshop in the ticket shop.
All This And Much More!
Absolutely, all of this and so much more awaits you during the Bear Retreat weekend. Take a moment to check out the event schedule further down this page and start selecting your favorites! In addition to the schedule, you have the option to select from various activities that you can enjoy at your leisure. You can sing your heart out in the karaoke room, relax and watch a movie in the cinema, pick up a billiard cue for a game of billiards, engage in table football, play jeu de boules, or try your hand at Sjoelen, a classic Dutch game that is a traditional table shuffleboard originating from the Netherlands!
Buy Your Tickets Today And Treat Yourself..
BERENBOERDERIJ
The Manor Farmhouse
Nestled near the Hondsrug, renowned for its ancient Hunebedden, is our exquisite and distinctive Manor Farmhouse, which we have affectionately called the Berenboederij. This title honors the Dutch term Herenboerderij, representing the estate of a prosperous farmer from the past. It stands as one of the most spacious and opulent group accommodations in the Netherlands, housed in a remarkable structure built in 1912, recognized as an official monument designed by architect Klaas Prummel.
We selected a venue that is easy for everyone to access. You can come by your own vehicle, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or bicycle, since we provide private parking for all. Additionally, the venue is reachable via public transport, including trains and buses, or you might opt for a train ride followed by a taxi for a touch of extra comfort. If you love cycling, enjoy your journey to the Berenboerderij and discover the stunning Hondsrug area.
The Manor Farmhouse is located at 2e Exloërmond, precisely at Zuiderdiep 385. To easily plan your visit, you can utilize this Google Maps link. There is private parking available for your car or motorcycle. Additionally, we provide two charging spots for electric vehicles to recharge their batteries.
The Netherlands boasts multiple airports, with Schiphol Amsterdam Airport being the most renowned. Located near Amsterdam, it has its own train station that offers services to a station near the Berenboerderij. From that point, you can take a direct bus that stops directly in front of the manor farmhouse. In the section titled Getting to Bear Retreat by public transport, we explain how to reach the venue. You can also arrive at Eindhoven Airport, Rotterdam The Hague Airport, Maastricht Aachen Airport, and Groningen Airport Eelde, provided there are connections available from your departure location.
The Netherlands features a highly efficient public transportation network comprising trains, buses, trams, metros, and even boats.
The Bear Retreat venue is easily reachable through this system. The nearest train station is Emmen, and there is a direct bus service with a bus stop located right in front of the Berenboerderij. For those desiring a bit more comfort, a taxi ride will take just over 20 minutes. Allow us to assist you in locating and reserving a taxi. Just send us a message on WhatsApp! We have a partnership with a taxi service that can transport you to and from station Emmen to the venue.
event schedule
Time
Events
Description
- 16:00 - 17:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Beary
Warm Welcome
Welcome to the Manor Farmhouse! Upon your arrival, our team will assist you with the check-in process and lead you to your farm bed, private suite, campsite spot, or bell tent in the orchard. Once you’re settled, enjoy a delightful slice of fresh apple pie with a cup of coffee or tea, and take the opportunity to socialize with other guests and discover all that the Berenboerderij has to offer.
- 10:30am - 11:00am
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Artsy Fartsy
Bear Mandala
It's time to unleash your creativity and become artsy fartsy, pick up the coloring pencils to bring your unique Bear Mandala to life with your favorite colors. This fun and relaxing group activity will help you connect with others and result in a charming piece of art to take home!
- 18:00 - 20:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
L'Orso Affamto
Italian farm buffet
Indulge in a delightful Italian dinner buffet for the hungry bears showcasing fresh, farm-to-table specialties. We serve you warm dishes including Lasagna with Italian vegetables and herbs, Spaghetti Bolognese, Penne with chicken pesto in a creamy cheese sauce, Italian meatballs in tomato sauce, and mildly spiced chicken thigh fillet with vegetables, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and cheese. We also offer a creamy Mediterranean potato dish, and fresh pizzas from the pizza oven!
In addition, we have refreshing cold dishes: Mesclun salad with honey-mustard dressing, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, Pesto bianco pasta salad, and Fruttivendolo salad. And of course, freshly baked Italian bread with a variety of tapenade. What will be for dessert, you asked? What else could it be but Tiramisu!
- 20:00 - 21:30
- Berenboerderij
- Extra ticket needed
- Ticket € 25,00
Whiskey Tasting Workshop
Immerse yourself in the rich history and delightful flavors of whiskey. In the tasting lounge situated at the heart of the manor farmhouse, you will embark on a 1.5-hour sensory journey through the finest distilleries worldwide. Discover not only the expected regions but also lesser-known areas and even local Dutch varieties that make this iconic drink unique. From the artistry involved to the captivating aromas – delve into the maturation process, the influence of barrels, and the subtle differences among various whiskey traditions. Our seasoned expert Patrick will lead you through the fascinating worlds of scent, taste, and character.
- 21:00 - 00:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Beary Jammies Party in your PJ's
Slip into your silliest pajamas or most adorable onesie and come along for a silent disco, films, karaoke, games, and some late-night wellness! It's the ideal way to wrap up the first great day of Bear Retreat and gear up for an even more fun-filled Saturday!
- 00:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Good Night Wellness
Let's raise the temperature! Come along with the sauna master for a late-night infusion ceremony! The calming scents and warm steam will prepare you for a deep, restful sleep or inspire you to take a midnight plunge in the outdoor hot tubs..
Time
Events
Description
- 9:00 - 10:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Good Morning Wellness
Looking to start your day feeling refreshed and energized? Come join the
sauna master at the Good Morning Wellness session held at the sauna in
the Berenboerderij.
- 10:00 - 12:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Beary Brunch
Feeling hungry? Prepare yourself for the brunch buffet featuring an extensive array of brunch delights, and savor something from the omelet or pancake station! Pick up a coffee, tea, milk, or juice. Enjoy fresh bread from the bakery along with a variety of cold cuts, cheeses, and warm dishes. There's plenty of options to bring you joy!
- 12:00 - 14:00
- De Vennehoeve
- Included in ticket
We All Scream for Ice Cream
Workshop
Together with all the attendees of the Bear Retreat, we make our way to the organic dairy farm situated opposite the manor farmhouse. There, we will delve into the dairy operations, take a tour of the stables housing the cows, and even craft our own ice cream to savor at the Bearbecue. After we finish, the farmer will freeze our ice cream for us to enjoy later during the barbecue, and you're invited to visit the farm shop and treat yourself!
- 15:00 - 17:00
- Musselkanaal
- Included in ticket
Rupert Bear Stroll
How do you feel about taking a stroll to discover Musselkanaal in the nearby Groningen province and encounter a well-known bear? During this walk, we will literally cross the border between Drenthe and Groningen, stopping by a charming village where you can do a bit of shopping and partake in some tourist activities, such as visiting a museum dedicated to Dutch pottery, another museum featuring threshing rakes and farm carts, along with various elements of rural life. Plus, we will meet none other than Bruintje Beer, or as you might know him, Rupert Bear, also simply referred to as Rupert. So, lace up those walking shoes!
- 17:00 - 18:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Cuddle Puddle
A cuddle puddle, you say? It's a method for allowing individuals to engage in nonsexual group physical closeness through cuddling. Participate in this guided activity following the bear stroll instead of taking the nap you might be considering. It will provide an energy boost like you may not have felt before.
- 18:00 - 20:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
BEARBECUE
What would a summer retreat be without a barbecue, or as we refer to it, a BEARBECUE? Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, we have your cravings covered! Get ready to be amazed by a bear-stuffed barbecue experience that is truly unique. Wondering what's on the menu? Treat yourself to BBQ delights such as Chicken skewers wrapped in bacon, succulent Beefsteak, Chicken fillet Satay skewers, Groninger pork belly, and Drenthe barbecue sausage, all sourced from local farmers. Our bear chef will cook the food to perfection and serve it piping hot! Now is the moment to savor these delightful sides: artisanal beef potato salad,
Drenthse potato salad, Tortellini with broccoli and ham salad, Farmhouse salad, and a selection of freshly baked baguettes (white, wheat, and whole grain) served with
Homemade herb butter. Additionally, we have an array of scrumptious sauces including Garlic sauce, Cocktail sauce, Barbecue sauce, and Peanut sauce. To top it all off, we will indulge in a refreshing fruit salad and our very own made ice cream!
- 21:00 - 00:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Bear Summer Foam Party
The Bear Summer Party promises to be vibrant and thrilling! Make sure to grab your swim trunks from the suitcase and put on your swimming goggles just in case. It's time to get ready to dance in foam! Take a plunge into the pool after a quick rinse and soak in the fantastic music. Once things cool down a bit, we'll shift the celebrations indoors, where they will get even more naughty..
- 00:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Good Night Wellness
Let's raise the temperature! Come along with the sauna master for a late-night infusion ceremony! The calming scents and warm steam will prepare you for a deep, restful sleep or inspire you to take a midnight plunge in the outdoor hot tubs..
Time
Events
Description
- 9:00 - 10:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Good Morning Wellness
Looking to start your day feeling refreshed and energized? Come join the sauna master at the Good Morning Wellness session held at the sauna in Berenboerderij.
- 10:00 - 12:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Beary Brunch
Feeling hungry? Prepare yourself for the brunch buffet featuring an extensive array of brunch delights, and savor something from the omelet or pancake station! Pick up a coffee, tea, milk, or juice. Enjoy fresh bread from the bakery along with a variety of cold cuts, cheeses, sweet toppings and warm dishes. There's plenty of options to bring you joy!
- 12:00 - 15:00
- De Vennehoeve
- Extra ticket needed
Say Cheese! Cheese making Workshop
In addition to clogs, windmills, what else is the Netherlands famous for? Naturally, cheese! Now, you have the chance to create your own cheese at the organic dairy farm we visited for our ice cream workshop, with guidance from the farmer's wife who is excited to share tales about the farm, the cows, the milk, and the delightful cheese you can produce from it. This 3-hour workshop includes a tour of the farm, a lovely coffee or tea accompanied by a homemade cookie, and at the end, you'll take home the cheese you've made. It's a wonderful treat for later and a memory that will last even longer.
- 15:00 - 16:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Caked Up
Bear Music Bingo
Bear Bingo is a unique take on the classic game; instead of numbers, you'll listen to music to locate songs on your bingo card! Plus, there's a chance to win a fantastic prize! So grab a seat, savor a slice of cake, and let's sing along to the tunes we hear while creating unforgettable memories!
- 16:00 - 17:00
- Berenboerderij
- Included in ticket
Bye Bye Bears and Friends
After a fantastic weekend together, it's time to check out and head back home, or maybe you'll decide to extend your stay in the Netherlands. One thing is for sure: we can't wait to welcome you to our next Bear Retreat in the winter of 2027, and we would love to share details with you, along with a flyer and a treat as you leave the Berenboederij. Looking forward to seeing you next year!
Buy Your Tickets Today And Treat Yourself..
Get Tickets
2-person package Private Suite
€849
1/1
- (Opkamer)
- Private Suite 'Opkamer' the raised room suite for two persons on the ground floor.
4-person package Private Suite
€1049
1/1
- (Zolder)
- Private Suite 'Zolderkamer' the attic suite for four persons on the second floor.
2-person package Private Suite
€849
1/1
- (Weids zicht)
- Private Suite 'Weids zicht' the wide view suite for two persons on the first floor.
2-person package Private Suite
€849
1/1
- (Paardenstal)
- Private Suite 'Paardenstal' the horse stable suite for two persons on the ground floor.
- (Dog Allowed)
1-person package Bear Retreat
€319
1/1
- (Bell Tent)
- 1-person package 'Bell tent' for one person.
2-person package Private Suite
€849
1/1
- (Seniorenkamer)
- Private Suite 'Seniorkamer' the senior's suite for two persons on the ground floor that is extra accessible.
- (Dog Allowed)
1-person package Bear Retreat
€379
1/1
- (Bedstee alcove bed)
- 1-person package 'Bedstee alcove bed' for one person in the manor farmhouse.
1-person package Bear Retreat
€279
1/6
- (Campsite)
- 1-person package 'Campsite' for one person with their own spot for a tent caravan or campervan on the campsite.
- (Dog Allowed)
1-person package Bear Retreat
€379
2/6
- (Regular bed)
- 1-person package 'Regular bed' for one person in the manor farmhouse.
2-person package Bear Retreat
€749
1/4
- (Bedstee alcove bed)
- 2-person package 'Bedstee alcove bed' for two persons.
2-person package Bear Retreat
€549
1/6
- (Campsite)
- 2-person package 'Campsite' for two persons with their own spot for a tent caravan or campervan.
- (Dog Allowed)
2-person package Bear Retreat
€749
2/6
- (Regular bed)
- 2-person package 'Regular bed' for two persons.
Ambearssador Club
The Ambassadors of the Bear Community
This is a title
Ambearssador is an exciting new bear social club active in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, aiming to unite these countries under a fresh club that connects members of the Bear Community. We invite you to learn more about our new initiative at the Bear Retreat.
Ambearssador
The Netherlands
Ambearssador
Belgium
Ambearssador
Germany
GIVE US A GROWL
Send us a Message
Do you have any inquiries? Or maybe you want to share something with us? Please use this easy form, and we will respond to you as quickly as possible. If you need a very prompt reply, don't hesitate to use the WhatsApp chat feature on our website by clicking the green button that reads How can we help you? Your message goes straight to the phones of our wonderful volunteers.
