Harkstede

Harkstede (Pronounce: ‘Hawrkstayduh’) is a small village in Slochteren, Groningen (province), the Netherlands. Its name is "Haarkstee" in the local dialect, the Gronings. The name is probably meant as "Haarkes Stee", which means "Haarke's Farm". Harkstede has about 3000 inhabitants, what makes it one of the smaller villages in the area. This number will increase in the near future, because of the "Meerstad-project" of the City of Groningen, meaning hundreds of new homes will be build in and around Harkstede.

History

Until 1821, Harkstede was a municipality on its own. In that year it became part of the Slochteren municipality. Harkstede was supposedly founded during the 13th century, when the tower next to the local church was built.

Sightseeing

More sightseeing in Harkstede includes the recreation park "Grunopark", and the international rowing course to the north of the village. Harkstede is not all that interesting for tourists, mainly due to its size. Harkstede however does have to offer something for waterski-enthusiasts, with the Grunolake and -beach including a possibility for waterskiing and skijumping. Also once "Meerstad" (lakecity) has been finished, there will be even more waterrecreation possible in Harkstede.