Amsterdam is a city that is home to several leafy urban areas and hidden garden courtyards, as well as several attractive city parks. Yet, to really embrace the gifts of Mother Nature, a trip beyond the city limits is required. Thankfully you don’t need to venture far. There are vast green parkland areas, beautiful flower gardens, and scenic coastal regions all within easy reach. There are several picturesque beauty spots less than an hour from central Amsterdam, meaning even a short half-day private tour is worthwhile.
Take a break from the buzz of the big city and spend time immersing yourself in the quiet of picture-perfect green meadows. Discover a wealth of flora and fauna, with a surprising variety of wildlife to be seen just a short drive from the city. Here are our favourite natural spaces to tour just outside the city. Make the most of your time accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide.
Keukenhof Gardens
Just 40 km away from Amsterdam is the ‘Garden of Europe.’ Officially known as Keukenhof Gardens, it is the largest flower park in the world, where no less than seven million flower bulbs are planted every year. It is globally renowned as the best place to see the Netherlands’ famous tulips in bloom.
The different fields resemble a living art canvas with an ocean of vibrant colors designed by artistic horticulturists, each year having a different theme. Keukenhof attracts over one million visitors every year, but the vast majority visit between mid-March and mid-May when the tulips are in bloom. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, the early morning, or late afternoon.
Keukenhof however has much more to offer than just its famed tulips. There are also fields of daffodils, orchids, roses, lilies, and other flowers. Planning a private tour outside of spring? While the tulips have gone, the gardens of nearby Keukenhof Castle are filled with countless different species of flowering dahlias during the summer months. In August it hosts the Keukenhof Dahlia Days festival which includes a variety of gardening activities and entertainment.
Of course, strolling through flower gardens might not seem like a thrilling day for the kids, but it will surprise you. Visit at weekends in spring when there is a range of kid-friendly distractions including a farmyard petting zoo, a scavenger hunt, and a maze to explore.
Nieuw Land National Park
To see how nature can be literally created from nothing, take a short drive to the Nieuw Land National Park. This is the newest national park in the Netherlands, and the largest man-made nature reserve in the world spanning 29,000 hectares. It came into being as part of the biggest ever land reclamation project in history.
Lying four metres below sea level, it is now a refuge for birdlife, most notably the white-tailed eagle, as well as geese and cormorants. It is also a hotspot for migratory birds, including bluethroats, common terns, herons, and Eurasian spoonbills. Nieuw Land also has a large population of grazing Heck cattle, deer, and Konik wild horses.
It comprises huge wetlands and grassland areas with many observation points to spot wildlife along the numerous waterfront trails. There are also routes for hiking and cycling, and ‘swamp hikes' can be arranged to see the otters that have made their home here.
The national park is perfect for leisurely long walks as the region is so flat. A walk through the Driehoek to the De Zeearend observation hut is a must to catch a glimpse of the white-tailed eagle. The Marker Wadden is the newest walking trail and the most isolated part of the national park, comprising marshland and windswept beaches - a haven for bird watching. At nearby Markermeer Lake you can enjoy watersports and sailing or just chill on the artificial beach when the sun is shining. Contact one of our Dutch guides to help you plan your trip to this intriguing park today.
Amsterdam Forest
Located on the outskirts of the capital, Amsterdam Forest is the city’s largest green area. In fact, it measures three times the size of New York City’s Central Park. Despite the name - Amsterdamse Bos in Dutch - it is much more than trees. The lush forest gives way to a large expanse of grassy meadows, ponds, and streams.
There is a surprising amount of activities on offer. The parkland is criss-crossed by several kilometres of marked walking trails and cycling paths, with bikes for hire at the entrance. Not to be missed are the majestic longhaired cattle called the Scottish Highlanders. For something more active, head to ‘Fun Forest’. This is a treetop adventure park located in the forest canopy featuring several different courses for every fitness level. There are rope bridges, nets, ladders, and zip lines to keep adults and kids alike occupied for hours.
With interconnected small streams, ponds, and little lakes, there are many options to cool down with a refreshing swim. There are small ponds suitable for safe swimming, or you can try diving into the Big Pond (‘Grote Vijver’) which is in fact a crystal-clear lake. Getting around by kayak is also a fun and relaxing option on a sunny day, and visitors can choose from single or two-seater kayaks or large pedal boats.
Amsterdam Forest is the city’s green lung and perfect for a picnic or to simply kick back, relax, and enjoy the quiet just minutes from the city.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for peaceful walks, a picnic, or something a little more adventurous, you don’t need to go far from Amsterdam’s vibrant streets and canals. One of our top picks, Amsterdam Forest, is only a bike ride away. For tranquil respite from city sightseeing, go and discover these green spaces. Simply contact one of our expert private guides who can arrange a nature-based custom tour to your liking. You’ll love the change of pace and scenery.