A-mag mini Castles & Gardens of Amsterdam

AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE

I nc l ude a rea ma s p t ra n s po & rt a d v ic e

CASTLES & GARDENS

of A m sterdam

EXPLORE THE FORMER COUNTRY RETREATS OF AMSTERDAM’S GOLDEN AGE MERCHANTS OR SEE THE CITY’S OLD DEFENSIVE FORTS – ALL WITHIN AN HOUR OF THE CITY CENTRE.

Free entrance museums Free canal cruise Free public transport Amsterdam and more

24 hours €49

48 hours €59

72 hours €69

GET OUT OF TOWN BUS PASS

+ €10

Available at the I amsterdam Visitor Centres (across from Central Station and at Schiphol Airport, Arrivals 2) iamsterdam.com/citycard

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AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE

CASTLES & GARDENS

WELCOME TO THE CASTLES & GARDENS OF AMSTERDAM

CONTENTS P.04 FORTRESS STRETCH

Home to many old castles, fortified towns and ruins, the picturesque fortress stretch offers a vivid window into medieval times.

P.09 HISTORICAL RIVER ESTATES

Take a trip south of the city and enjoy the grandeur and nature of the historical river estates that dot the banks of the winding River Vecht.

P.12 PUBLIC TRANSPORT MAP P.14 LEISURE LAKES

Near Amsterdam you’ll find a number of lakes perfect for a day of fun on the water. Rent a boat, canoe or surfboard to explore, enjoy and relax.

P.18 AMSTEL RIVER COUNTRYSIDE

Follow the Amstel River out of the city and in no time at all you’ll be cycling past grazing cows, country houses and historic villages.

P.22 VISITOR INFORMATION

Transport tips, Visitor Information Centres, where to stay, where to eat & more.

 a number next to an attraction corresponds to the location on the map on pp.12-13

A a letter next to an attraction corresponds to the nearest Visitor Information Centre, listed on p.22

The countryside of Amsterdam was always a popular region for the rich merchants of the Golden Age. Each summer they would leave their primary residences in the heart of Amsterdam, retreating to extravagant castles and estates with acres of beautifully manicured gardens. South-east of Amsterdam, on the banks of the Amstel River and the River Vecht, you can still bike and boat past these historic houses.

Some are open to the public while others leave you dreaming of an aristocratic life by the water… At the leisure lakes of Amsterdam, meanwhile, watersports enthusiasts and nature lovers will find plenty to do, to explore and relax. www.iamsterdam.com/cityescapes

P.23 TIP

Many of the best attractions around the Castles & Gardens are an enjoyable bike ride from Amsterdam. See p.23 for rental options near Central Station and Amstel Station.

published by Amsterdam Marketing editor-in-chief Bart van Oosterhout art direction & basic design Loes Koomen project manager Pauline Saathof designer Zlatka Siljdedic copy editor & writer Megan Roberts

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CASTLES & GARDENS

fortress stretch

Fortress stretch

Home to many old castles, fortified towns and ruins, the picturesque fortress stretch – part of the UNESCO World Heritage list – offers a vivid window into medieval times.

FORT OSSENMARKT

DEFENCE LINE OF AMSTERDAM

VISIT 1,000 YEARS OF HISTORY

T

he charming town of Muiden is a must for boat lovers, with countless ships sailing into and out of the historic harbour. It is also home to the grand Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot, which looms over the mouth of the River Vecht, the Netherlands’ most beautiful river. As well as providing a historic snapshot it’s also a fun-filled museum for all the family. Nearby, Naarden is one of the most remarkable examples of a preserved fortified town, with

its classical town centre still encompassed by two elaborate star-shaped canals and stone walls. Weesp’s forts and windmills, meanwhile, offer up a taste of the Golden Age. All of these towns are fantastic starting points for exploring the UNESCO World Heritageprotected Defence Line of Amsterdam.

The Defence Line of Amsterdam (Stelling van Amsterdam) is a remarkable 135-kilometre-long defensive ring made up of 46 forts and batteries as well as a multitude of dykes and sluices, encircles the Dutch capital. The Stelling was mostly constructed between 1874 and 1914 and showcases the Dutch genius for hydraulic engineering: the possibility for flooding the land lies at the heart of this defensive system, which is characterised by ingenious logistics. During both World Wars the Stelling was manned by soldiers, although it didn’t witness any action. Nowadays, a large portion of this monument is open to the public and makes for a great day out for young and old. Special bike routes (in English) have been developed along the most beautiful highlights (AprilOctober).

www.defencelineamsterdam.com

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AMSTERDAM CASTLE MUIDERSLOT

A square castle with a drawbridge, five towers, battlements and embrasures, Muiderslot is a true medieval water stronghold on the River Vecht.

Built around 1285 by Count Floris V, an ally of the French Court and later of the British King Edward, Floris was later brutally murdered by his own nobles. Some 300 years later Muiderslot was home to ‘Dutch Shakespeare’ Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft.

Today, it is an informative and fun day out for the whole family. Take a tour through the impressive knight’s hall, towers, dungeon and armoury; stroll through the beautiful herb and vegetable gardens that still retain the atmosphere of the Dutch Renaissance and enjoy the fantastic views from the ramparts. A special interactive tour for kids – where they can play dress-up and even try their hand at jousting – comes highly recommended, as do the falconry displays (daily in July and August, except Monday).

FREE entrance with your I amsterdam City Card open 1 April-31 October Herengracht 1, Muiden  +31 (0)294 256 262 www.muiderslot.nl

MUIDEN The fortified town of Muiden sits near the IJmeer, just east of Amsterdam.

Dating back to the tenth century, it is now known for its peaceful streets, cosy cafés, historic landmarks and picturesque harbour. The town is a key link in the Defence Line of Amsterdam. Pass through Muiden’s centuries-old walls and prepare for a stroll through one of the country’s oldest communities. DE

TIP Travel by boat from Amsterdam to Pampus Island and Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot and get a 25% discount with your I amsterdam City Card. Boats depart Tuesday-Sunday from IJburg in Amsterdam. (+31 (0)20 427 8888 www.veerdienstamsterdam.nl (4 April - 1 November).

FORT PAMPUS At low tide Pampus Island used to block the access of seagoing ships to the port of Amsterdam.

Late in the 19th century, an island fort was built on the site as one of a ring of 46 fortifications and batteries surrounding Amsterdam.

It was abandoned in 1933 when the Zuiderzee was closed off from the North Sea to become the IJsselmeer, the biggest lake in the Netherlands. These days, the island and abandoned fort have a mysterious air and make for an interesting day out for visitors of all ages. Catch the ferry from either Muiden or Amsterdam (4 April-1 November). +31 (0)294 262 326  www.pampus.nl

TIP Get a 25% discount with your I amsterdam City Card

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fortress stretch

NAARDEN

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aarden was once a modern military defence post and it is still one of the best-preserved fortified towns in Europe. From the air, the town’s layout resembles a gigantic snowflake, comprising six bastions, a double rampart and a double ring of canals. This unique configuration meant Naarden was used as a rallying point for Allied bombers during World War II. Must-sees include the Town Hall dating from 1601, with its imposing crow-stepped gable, The Spanish House, one of the last remaining medieval buildings, and The Big Church with its famous 16th-century paintings illustrating scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The Arsenal was originally a weapons repository dating from 1688, and is now the home base for Dutch interior designers and a top restaurant, which in combination offer the perfect opportunity to combine history and contemporary design. The city offers plenty of good restaurants and pubs where you can experience typical Dutch gezelligheid (cosy atmosphere). Also enjoy the museums, excellent boat rides, festivals, galleries, little shops, cosy cafés and beautiful natural surroundings. www.vvvnaarden.nl D

© TIM TADDER

FOTOFESTIVAL NAARDEN Now entering its 14th edition, FotoFestival Naarden is held every other year and attracts tens of thousands of photography enthusiasts to the historical fortified city of Naarden. Taking place at some ten locations, this year’s festival is themed around water, and will feature new series by Frans Lanting, Kadir van Lohuizen, Tim Tadder, Jimmy Nelson and dozens of other top photographers. Other highlights include tours, public interviews and a photo-book store.

14 May-21 June www.fotofestivalnaarden.nl

DUTCH FORTRESS MUSEUM Swallowed by the Zuiderzee, massacred and burned by the Spaniards, occupied by the French and Prussians and later

by Napoleon’s troops: the history of Naarden can be found at this fascinating museum, comprising canons, weapons, uniforms, engravings and an audiovisual presentation, plus historical reconstructions every third Sunday of the month.

Visitors can also learn about the ‘New Dutch Waterline’: by flooding large sections of land with water too shallow for boats and too deep to march through, this military line of defence, designed in 1815, helped to keep Holland out of war for more than a century.

Westwalstraat 6, Naarden +31 (0)35 694 5459 www.vestingmuseum.nl 

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Weesp A

grand town hall, windmills, forts and the River Vecht adorn the fortified town of Weesp. The town centre boasts more than 188 national monuments. One of the most eye-catching is the town hall built in 1772-’76 and designed by Jacob Otten Husly, the architect behind the grand Felix Meritis building on Amsterdam’s Keizersgracht. These days, the town hall houses a small museum for porcelain, one of the oldest industries in Weesp (www.museumweesp.nl). Until the 1970s, the town was home to a chocolate factory owned and operated by the renowned Van Houten family. Today, the family’s influence can still be seen in the Van Houten church and the grand 99-room Villa Casparus. E

FORT UITERMEER From the centre of Weesp follow the River Vecht to the southeast, where you’ll find the ruins of the Uitermeer fortress , which was blown up in World War II and is being (partially) restored. The surrounding grounds are accessible on foot and by boat. Next to the fort you’ll find a lovely restaurant – the perfect stop for a refreshing drink.

FORT UITERMEER

www.defencelineamsterdam.com

WINDMILLS Weesp has three full-size historical windmills. The Eendragt (Unity)  and Vriendschap (Friendship)  mills are close together on the Vecht, and are best seen from the opposite bank, about a ten-minute walk from the centre. Windmill Vriendschap is still used for the production of wheat flour and can be visited on Saturdays. Windmill ’t Haantje (the Rooster) , meanwhile, is located west of the centre, on the bank of the waterway Smal Weesp. www.vvvgooivecht.nl

The Gooi & Vecht region, Mobile information

Garden of Amsterdam!

The Gooi & Vecht mobile site includes: Highlights of the region To do in a day Hiking, biking and sailing tips Information about fortresses

Amsterdam Utrecht

and castles Accommodation and restaurant tips Accessibility of the region For mobile tourist information about Gooi & Vecht scan the QR code or visit www.visitgooivecht.com

050 G&V ADV 128x93mm.indd 1

22-07-14 12:56 Welcome to the Garden of Amsterdam

HAVEN VAN 'T GOOI The Miracle of the Huizer Milkmaid

Huizen is worth visiting. With his cozy marinas, the old harbour and ďŹ shermen’s houses, excellent catering and hotel accommodations, Huizen is an ideal stopping place for your trips in the Garden of Amsterdam and the Leisure Lakes. More information on www.vvvhuizen.nl and www.huizenhavenvantgooi.nl

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CASTLES & GARDENS

historical river estates

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Historical river estates Take a trip south of the city and enjoy the grandeur and nature of the historical river estates that dot the banks of the winding River Vecht.

T

he winding River Vecht between Amsterdam and Utrecht is a wonderful setting for a boat trip or cycle route. The bank or water offer an open view of the imposing castles, country houses and accompanying tearooms. Rich merchants from the Golden Age once spent their summer months here – a smart place to take a holiday, because at the beginning of the 17th century, the River Vecht was the most important link between Amsterdam and Utrecht. The holidaymakers ‘only’ needed five to seven hours to reach their rural residence.

Thankfully, it’s much quicker today!

CE

GEOCACHING The Garden of Amsterdam GeoTour is a multi-day geocaching game, where participants go in search of 24 buried treasures, or caches, using a GPS-enabled smartphone. An adventurous treasure hunt game for young and old, you can play by yourself, with family or with friends. The Garden of Amsterdam GeoTour takes you through the most interesting sights of the Castles & Gardens region, past impressive castles, fortresses and ancient fortified towns to the most beautiful natural areas. www.vvvgooivecht.nl

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CASTLES & GARDENS

historical river estates

CASTLE NYENRODE

B

uilt in 1290 and located in Breukelen, the name-sake of the New York City borough of Brooklyn, Castle Nyenrode was strategically positioned on the narrowest part of the bank of the River Vecht, an area heavily disputed by the Bishops of Utrecht and the Counts of Holland.

In times of need, the surrounding water could be used to defend the castle. The original castle was destroyed in 1481 and again in 1511 but was rebuilt as a country retreat in the 1630s in the Dutch Renaissance style; its impressive arch, drawbridge and waterway once protected its owner from unwanted house guests and visitors.

The castle currently houses a private university but can be viewed from the river.

ZUYLEN CASTLE Zuylen Castle in the tiny village of Oud-Zuilen is another castle on the Vecht that became a summer retreat. Whilst retaining many of its medieval castle-like features it was converted into a country mansion in the 18th century.

Its most famous resident was feminist writer Belle van Zuylen (Isabelle de Charrière). These days Slot Zuylen is a museum where the past is recalled to life through guided tours, garden walks, concerts and special events.

Tournooiveld 1, Oud-Zuilen  +31 (0)30 244 0255 www.slotzuylen.nl

BRINK TE LAREN, AVOND, GUSTAVE FRANCISCUS DE SMET

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BOAT HIRE THE BICYCLE BOAT Combine biking and boating on the River Vecht with De Fietsboot (The Bicycle Boat).

Starting at Nieuwersluis, the boat stops in Breukelen, Maarssen and Oud-Zuilen, and you can hop on and hop off as you please to continue by bike.

16 May-14 September, various days Rijksstraatweg 11 Nieuwersluis +31 (0)294 237 403 www.defietsboot.nl

REDERIJ WOLFRAT Discover the wonderful lakes near Amsterdam and the River Vecht with summer mansions of the rich and famous of the Golden Age along its banks.

Take a guided afternoon boat trip with lunch and dinner afterwards.

Oud-Loosdrechtsedijk 165  Loosdrecht +31 (0)6 2386 7785 www.rederijwolfrat.nl

THE SINGER MUSEUM LAREN Laren became one of the centres of Dutch art at the end of the 19th century. The American businessman and art lover William Henry Singer built a large mansion in the centre of Laren in 1911, which became the famous Singer Museum after the Second World War, proudly displaying the works of many of the artists of the Laren School of Painting.

Oude Drift 1, Laren +31 (0)35 539 3939 www.singerlaren.nl

Public Transport Transport Map Map Public Public Transport Map

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Hoofddorp 340 300 300 340 Hoofddorp Hoofddorp 300 340

Amsterdamse Amsterdamse Bos Bos 170 172 174 Amsterdamse Am 300 170 172 174 Amstelveen Bos Amstelveen Amstelveen Bus station

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Schiphol B Schiphol Airport Airport Schiphol Airport

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plassen 174 Fort aan aande deDrecht Drecht 174 172 Kudelstaart Fort Kudelstaart 172  174 Fort aan de Drecht Kudelstaart 172

Vinkeveens Vinkeveense Vinkeveen 121 Stationstraat plasse plasse Vinkeveen plass Vinkeveen 121 121

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Attractions  Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot  Fort Pampus  Dutch Fortress Museum  Fort Uitermeer  Eendragt Windmill  Vriendschap Windmill  't Haantje Windmill  Castle Nyenrode  Zuylen Castle

 Bicycle Boat  Rederij Wolfrat Boat Rental  Westeinder Boat Cruises  Westeinder Paviljoen  Wester-Amstel Country House  De Ronde Hoep  Amsterdamse Bos  Amstelpark  Cobra Museum  Museum Jan van der Togt  Fort aan de Drecht

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Flora Flora Uithoorn Holland Holland WestBus station A 121170 170 Bus LeisureeinderLakes Zwarteweg Flora 121 Weststation Uithoorn einderHolland plassen WestBus station plassen 121 170Stationstraat 121 einderStationstraat 121

Countryside

VinkeveenViaduct Viaduct Viaduct

Visitor Info Centres A Amsterdam Central Station B Schiphol Airport C VVV Hilversum D VVV Naarden E VVV Weesp F VVV Bussum G VVV Loosdrecht H VVV Huizen I VVV Wijdemeren-'s Graveland J VVV Aalsmeer

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 P+R Terrein Muiden, Muiden, P+R Terrein

322 327

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Hilversum Hilversum 108 121320 320 108 121 Hilversum

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105 110 105 110 Naarden-Bussum Naarden-Bussum 105 110 Bussum

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LeisureLakes Lakes Leisure 108 Huizen 108 Leisure Lakes Huizen Bus station

Brink Brink Brink 320 320 320

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leisure lakes

Leisure lakes

Near Amsterdam you’ll find a number of lakes perfect for a day of fun on the water. Rent a sailboat, electric boat, canoe or surfboard to explore, enjoy and relax.

WESTEINDERPLASSEN Located in Aalsmeer, the Westeinderplassen (West End Lakes) form one of the biggest lakes in the country, with plenty of watersports options from swimming to sailing lessons. You can also rent a boat and go on an adventure through the network of tiny channels that link the lakes together. There are dozens of small islands, mostly privately owned, but everyone is welcome to moor their boat at Starteiland (Start Island). There are some 50 marinas along the banks of the Westeinderplassen, some of them with restaurants, cafés and sun-drenched terraces. www.vvvaalsmeer.nl J

WATER TOWER The 50-metre water tower is one of the showpieces of Aalsmeer.

With its art-deco architecture and ornamentation, the vista of the tower at the water’s edge is truly splendid. Close to the tower, restaurant ‘Westeinder Paviljoen’ offers a breath-taking view of the lake, a perfect surf break and a beach for swimming. www.westeinderpaviljoen.nl 

TIP There’s no better way to explore the Westeinderplassen than with a boat cruise. During an hourlong tour with Westeinder Boat Cruises, the skipper will entertain you with historical facts about this delightful area, which is deeply entwined with the Aalsmeer horticultural industry (www.westeinder rondvaart.nl). 

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The Vinkeveenseplassen (The Vinkeveen Lakes) are a typical Dutch wetland area just to the south of Amsterdam, which originated during Golden-Age peat extraction. The area is characterised by more than 300 islands, once used for drying the peat.

These days, it’s a great spot for young and old to enjoy some tranquility or one of the many watersports. www.vinkeveenlakes.com

© PETER BAKKER

THE VINKEVEEN LAKES

LOOSDRECHTSE PLASSEN

The Loosdrechtse Plassen (Loosdrecht Lakes) area is particularly suitable for watersports: sailing, rowing, canoeing, waterskiing and speedboating are all possible.

Hire a boat or take lessons at one of the many sailing schools. If taking a boat out yourself is not your thing, then take an excursion with a speedboat or sailboat or just laze around on a terrace with a view of the water and the boats.

C, F, G, I

BOATING ON THE LOOSDRECHTSE PLASSEN There are plenty of boat rental options on the Loosdrechtse Plassen, from where you can also enter the River Vecht and explore further. In warm weather, it’s advisable to reserve a boat or canoe in advance.

At Recreatiecentrum Mijnden (www.mijnden. nl) or Ottenhome (www. ottenhome.nl), you can rent boats, bikes and even camp.

Bus 121 takes you straight there.

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leisure lakes

Huizen H

uizen – literally, Houses – was originally an agricultural village, about two kilometres from the sea. Later, it expanded to become a coastal town, with a thriving fishing industry with a fleet of approximately 200 boats, the largest on the IJsselmeer. The building of the Old Harbour around 1850 opened the region up and earned the town the nickname ‘the Gooi area’s harbour’. After the damming of the Zuiderzee by the Afsluitdijk in 1932, industry and commerce became the driving economies.

In recent years Huizen has developed into a modern town bordering the Gooimeer (Gooi Lake), with several marinas and a lively historic centre with great shopping and the medieval Dutch Reformed Church, which is surrounded by 17thcentury farmhouses. The hiking trail Huizer Milkmaid, self-guided or with a guide, takes you through the historic streets and tells the colourful story of The Miracle of the Huizer Milkmaid. Pick up a leaflet or book a guided tour at the Visitor Information Centre. Huizen is also uniquely located for hiking and watersports activities, and is home to several excellent marinas with approximately 1,500 berths. H

NAUTICAL QUARTER Built around the Oude Haven (Old Harbour) where you can still see beautiful flat-bottom boats, some of them over 100 years old, Huizen’s Nautical Quarter is a picturesque village including a hotel, restaurants and convivial cafés. The Nautical Quarter has been carefully constructed to resemble a Zuiderzee village from time gone by. Replicas of a village school, a café on the harbour and a town hall dating from around 1860 are an insight into the past.

EVENTS HUIZERDAG Village festival with open-mic talent podium, live music headlined by different artists, a fashion show, food, drinks and much more.

11 & 12 September www.huizerdag.nl

HAVEN FESTIVAL HUIZEN Nautical festival featuring traditional flat-bottom fishing boats, music, market, raft race, food, drinks and more.

19 September www.huizer-botters.nl

The purest water. The interesting17 history. The great nature.

MINI

The Vinkeveen Lakes.

The Vinkeveen Lakes is a typically Dutch kind of mire land, just outside Amsterdam.

It originates from the Dutch Golden Age (17th century) when peat was mined to use as fuel. It’s a true water sports paradise with over 300 small islands. They all have a characteristically long shape, because they were used to dry the peat.

The beautiful Vinkeveen Lakes offer fantastic recreational opportunities for all ages. You can

vinkeveenlakes.com

go swimming, sailing, water-skiing, wake boarding, rowing, canoeing or even scuba diving. Or maybe you just want to take a break from busy Amsterdam and relax for a while?

Tip! If you really want to experience the splendour of this area, why not go on a typically Dutch bicycle trip. Along the way you’ll discover meandering little rivers, wide ‘polder’ views, authentic villages, monumental farms and picturesque windmills. ondernemers

vinkeveen

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CASTLES & GARDENS

amstel river countryside

Amstel River countryside

Amsterdam’s hinterland is quiet, green and unspoilt. Simply follow the Amstel River and in no time at all you’ll be cycling past grazing cows, historic villages and country houses, such as the Wester-Amstel.

OUDERKERK AAN DE AMSTEL The picturesque Ouderkerk aan de Amstel is located south of the centre of Amsterdam on the bank of the Ouderkerkerplas Lake. Established in the 12th century, the village is well known for its extraordinary church almshouses. Ouderkerk aan de Amstel offers a scenic refuge from the hustle and bustle of its infamous neighbour to the north. Visitors typically head to the village to take in its architecture, which includes historic churches, houses and De Zwaan (the Swan, an impressive windmill). There’s also Beth Haim of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, the Netherlands’ oldest Jewish cemetery. It opened in 1614 and features elaborate tombstones that include human figures. The graves of more than 27,000 people have remained intact for over 400 years, and among the cemetery’s most famous residents are Rabbi Menasseh Ben Israel, a colleague and collaborator of Old Master painter Rembrandt van Rijn. www.ontdekamstelland.nl A

AMSTEL SUMMER FESTIVAL A spectacular annual tradition, every year in the first week of June the village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel hosts this magical mix of music and culinary treats. Ouderkerk is known for its many great restaurants – some with Michelin stars – and they all take part, offering a taste of their menus. Meanwhile, a variety of live acts ensures a special and sunny atmosphere, no matter the weather. This year the line-up includes Voice of Holland winners O’G3NE. Friday 5 June

COUNTRY HOUSES

DE RONDE HOEP

Close your eyes for a moment and picture the 17th and 18th centuries with one enormous country house after another along the bank of the river, owned by wealthy Golden Age merchants who were escaping the bustle of Amsterdam. A few of these magnificent sites have been preserved – including the privately owned Oostermeer and the fully restored 350-year-old WesterAmstel, which hosts regular exhibitions and concerts and whose gardens are open to the public (www.wester-amstel.nl) .

Just outside of Ouderkerk is the largest-, undeveloped area in the Randstad region of the Netherlands, the polder called De Ronde Hoep (the Round Hoop). The strange thing about it is that only the edge has been built upon, the polder itself being reserved for agriculture and meadow birds.

The 17-kilometre jaunt over the dyke is very popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists.

See www.ontdekamstelland.nl for your favourite route. 

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Amstelveen A lively, multicultural city home to 124 different nationalities, there’s plenty to see and do in leafy Amstelveen – from museums to shopping, theatre to sports. In 2014 Amstelveen was voted the second greenest city in the Netherlands, and is home to one of the largest municipal parks in Europe the Amsterdam Forest (het Amsterdamse bos), as well as the family friendly Amstelpark. The parks comprise lush forests, playgrounds, a petting zoo and offers plenty of space for a relaxing picnic.

Amstelveen is also well known for its heme parks (heemparken), dedicated to native flora and which are designated national monuments. These parks are well worth a visit – especially during springtime.

It’s an idyllic bike ride along the Amstel River from the centre of Amsterdam. A B 

COBRA MUSEUM In the centre of Amstelveen you will find the Cobra Museum of Modern Art. It is home to a collection of key works by artists from the avant-garde Cobra art movement. The museum presents interesting exhibitions from this unique collection, as well as temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

FREE entrance with your I amsterdam City Card Sandbergplein 1 Amstelveen  +31 (0)20 547 5050 www.cobra-museum.nl

DINING ON THE AMSTEL If you follow the Amstel River out of the centre of Amsterdam – on a bike or even by boat – it doesn’t take long before you’re passing grazing cows and historic stately homes. The banks of the Amstel are bustling with fantastic restaurants and cafés with sunny waterside terraces where you can pause to refuel, including Brasserie Paardenburg (www. brasseriepaardenburg.nl), steak house Loetje aan de Amstel (ouderkerk.loetje.com) and Lute, an ultra-modern restaurant on the site of a former explosives factory (www.lute.nl).

MUSEUM JAN VAN DER TOGT Situated in the ‘Old Village’ of Amstelveen, you’ll find Museum Jan van der Togt. Here you’ll discover a leading collection of modern glass sculptures and fine art.

The museum also organises temporary modern art exhibitions every six weeks. The museum tram line – a vintage tram service that operates in summer months and starts at Haarlemmermeer Station – stops near the museum.

Dorpsstraat 50, Amstelveen  +31(0)20 641 57 54 www.jvdtogt.nl

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amstel river countryside

Uithoorn TIP Hire a boat in Uithoorn and explore the Amstel River countryside.

Aemstel Boating Marktplein 2, Uithoorn +31 (0)6 2476 9053 +31 (0)6 5130 2581 www.aemstelboating.nl

Includi

FORTEN PAD (FORTS PATH)

J

ust to the south of Amsterdam is Uithoorn, with its charming Thamerkerk church from 1834 right on the bank of the Amstel River. There is also a lively harbour, with restaurants, shops and a weekly market on Wednesdays. Completely renovated in the 1990s, today it is open to the public for tours (www.fortaandedrecht.nl).

A variety of walking and cycling routes have been marked out in Amstelland (the area around the Amstel River), and many pass through Uithoorn, which also has a 60-hectare nature reserve that surrounds a lake called the Zijdelmeer. It’s a fantastic spot for picnics and walks, and the grounds include a petting zoo.

The area of Uithoorn is perfect for a tour – on foot or by bike – along the fortifications and through a typical Dutch landscape of polders, reeds and towpath following the river.

Enjoy a well deserved drink at Fort bij de Kwakel and continue your journey to the Fort aan de Drecht . Over 100 years old, the monumental former military installation Fort aan de Drecht is on the outer edge of Uithoorn and is part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam.

Nowadays it houses restaurant Amstelfort and a typical Dutch pancake restaurant. Fun for the whole family! www.defencelineamsterdam.com

Molen koe grachtpand je fiets

&

Explore Castles & Gardens of Amsterdam With the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket you can travel for 24 hours by bus, tram and metro in and around Amsterdam.

This ticket is ideal to visit the Castles & Gardens region.

ing bus line 858 from Schiphol Airport to Keukenhof

Price â‚Ź13.50

Purchase your Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket with your I amsterdam City Card and get â‚Ź3.50 discount.

This offer is exclusively available at the I amsterdam Visitor Centres in Amsterdam and at Schiphol Airport. www.iamsterdam.com/citycard

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VISITOR INFORMATION

Everything you need to get the most out of your visit.

VISITOR INFO CENTRES AMSTERDAM A I amsterdam Visitor Centre Stationsplein 10 (across Central Station) +31 (0)20 702 6000 www.iamsterdam.com B I amsterdam Visitor Centre Schiphol Airport (Arrivals 2 at Schiphol Plaza) +31 (0)20 702 6000 www.iamsterdam.com C VVV Hilversum Kerkbrink 6 +31 (0)35 544 6971 www.vvvhilversum.nl D VVV Agency Naarden Utrechtse Poort, Ruysdaelplein +31 (0)35 694 2673 www.vvvnaarden.nl E VVV Agency Weesp Slijkstraat 28 +31 (0)294 457 711 www.vvvgooivecht.nl F VVV Agency Bussum Wilhelminaplantsoen 18 +31 (0)35 697 3000 www.vvvgooivecht.nl G VVV Loosdrecht Oud-Loosdrechtsedijk 115 +31 (0)35 623 6282 www.vvvwijdemeren.nl

H VVV Agency Huizen Achterbaan 82 +31 (0)35 525 0223 www.vvvhuizen.nl I VVV Agency Wijdemeren-'s Graveland Noordereinde 54B +31 (0)35 656 30 80 www.vvvwijdemeren.nl J VVV Agency Aalsmeer Zijdstraat 12 +31 (0)297 324 454 www.vvvaalsmeer.nl

GETTING THERE FORTRESS STRETCH MUIDEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take metro 53 or 54 to Amstel Station; then bus 320, 322 or 327 to stop P+R Terrein, Muiden. Journey time approx. 35min.

NAARDEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take metro 53 or 54 to Amstel Station then catch bus 320 to stop P+R Terrein, Naarden. Journey time approx. 40min. Or catch the train to Weesp; then bus 110 to stop Westwalstraat, Naarden. Journey time approx. 50min.

WEESP: from Amsterdam Central Station take metro 53 or 54 to Amstel Station then catch bus 320 to stop P+R Terrein, Muiden; then bus 110 to stop Station Weesp. Journey time approx. 40min. Or catch the train to Weesp. Journey time approx. 20min.

visitor information

LEISURE LAKES WESTEINDERPLASSEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take bus 172 (direction Kudelstaart via Amstelveen) to stop Zwarteweg (Aalsmeer) or take bus 340 from Hoofddorp to the centre of Aalsmeer. Journey time approx. 60min.

LOOSDRECHTSE PLASSEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take bus 170 to stop bus station Uithoorn; then bus 121 to stop Ottenhome. Journey time approx. 120min. Or take the train to Hilversum; then bus 104 (direction Nw-Loosdrecht) to stop Acacialaan, Loosdrecht.

Journey time approx.

65min.

HUIZEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take metro 53 or 54 to Amstel Station; then bus 320 (direction Hilversum via Blaricum) to stop Havenstraat, Huizen.

Journey time approx.

50min.

AMSTEL RIVER COUNTRYSIDE OUDERKERK AAN DE AMSTEL: from Amsterdam Central Station take metro 54 to Bijlmer ArenA; then bus 146, 171, 175 or 300 to stop Brug/Hoger Einde, Ouderkerk aan de Amstel.

Journey time approx.

35min.

AMSTELVEEN: from Amsterdam Central Station take bus 142, 170, 172 or 174 to stop bus station, Amstelveen. Journey time approx. 40min.

UITHOORN: from Amsterdam Central Station take bus 174 (direction Wilnis via Amstelveen) to stop Alfons Arienslaan, Uithoorn. Journey time approx. 60min.

HISTORICAL RIVER ESTATES BREUKELEN: from Amsterdam Central Station catch the train to Breukelen. Journey time approx. 30min.

OUD-ZUILEN: from Amsterdam Central Station catch the train to Breukelen; then bus 120 (direction Utrecht Centraal) to stop Zuilenselaan, Oud-Zuilen. Journey time approx. 60min.

SELECTION OF ACCOMODATIONS & RESTAURANTS FORTRESS STRETCH Hotel Hart van Weesp Affordable two-star hotel in the centre of Weesp.

Herengracht 35, Weesp +31 (0)294 419 353 www.hartvanweesp.nl Rechthuis Muiden This converted 17thcentury courthouse is now a hotel and restaurant. Every September it hosts the annual ‘Swing on the Brink’ festival.

Googweg 1 Muiderberg +31 (0)294 261 323 www.hotelhetrecht huis.nl Restaurant Acquavite Situated in an old barrack, Restaurant Acquavite offers you the chance to enjoy a dinner inside the town fortifactions.

Adriaan Dortsmanplein 3 Naarden +31 (0)35 694 2587 www.restaurant acquavite.nl

23 LEISURE LAKES Amrath Hotel Lapershoek A monumental hotel and restaurant.

Utrechtseweg 16 Hilversum +31 (0)35 623 1341 www.amrathhotels.nl/ lapershoek Blaricum B&B In the heart of Het Gooi with room for up to ten.

Molenveenweg 15 Blaricum +31 (0)65 578 1678 www.blaricumbnb.nl CornelisZ Restaurant open seven days a week, from early morning until late at night.

Vaarboom 1, Huizen +31 (0)35 887 6000 www.cornelisz.nl Hampshire Hotel Newport, Huizen Right in the Gooi with breathtaking views over the Gooi and marina.

Labradorstroom 75 Huizen +31 (0)35 528 9600

www.hampshire-hotels. com/hampshire-hotelnewport-huizen Rent a Houseboat Houseboat rental in peaceful, green surroundings with private garden and waterside terrace.

Old Spoordijk ws 22 Aalsmeer +31 (0)6 3041 5380 www.rentahouseboat.nl Westeinder Paviljoen Enjoy a breath-taking view over the lake while having a nice lunch or dinner at the same time.

Kudelstaartseweg 22 Aalsmeer +31 (0)297 364 985 www.westeinder paviljoen.nl AMSTEL RIVER COUNTRYSIDE Brasserie Paardenburg Affordable and high quality food with an amazing view on the Amstel.

Amstelzijde 55 Ouderkerk a/d Amstel +31 (0)20 496 12 10 www.brasseriepaarden burg.nl

BIKE RENTAL IN AMSTERDAM Hire a bike and explore the best of Amsterdam’s castles & gardens for yourself.

MACBIKE

City bikes, tandems, electric bikes, child seats, cargo bikes and more. Stationsplein 5, +31 (0)20 428 5778, www.macbike.nl

YELLOW BIKE Three locations close to Central Station, offering guided tours and more. Nieuwezijds Kolk 29, +31 (0)20 620 6940, www.yellowbike.nl

AMSTERBIKE Offers electric scooter rental as well as standard bikes.

Piet Heinkade 11A, +31 (0)20 419 9063, www.amsterbike.eu

FIETSPOINT AMSTEL Julianaplein 1, Amsterdam +31 (0)20 692 35 84 www.ov-fiets.nl

Loetje aan de Amstel Well known in the entire area, Loetje aan de Amstel serves the best steak you’ve ever had.

Amstelzijde 35-37 Amstelveen +31 (0)20 472 1090 www.ouderkerk.loetje.com Lute An ultra-modern restaurant on the site of a former explosives factory with a great ambiance.

Oude Molen 5 Amstelveen +31 (0)20 472 2462 www.lute.nu Restaurant Pancakefort and Amstelfort Two restaurants which are situated in an authentic fort, a special experience and fun for the whole family.

Grevelingen 50-66 Uithoorn www.defencelineamster dam.com

HISTORICAL RIVER ESTATES Belle van Zuylen Seasonal French cuisine next to Castle Zuylen and the River Vecht.

Dorpsstraat 12 Oud Zuilen +31 (0)30 244 1790 www.restaurantbelle.nl De Willigen Logies Located directly on the Vecht, accommodation consists of seven stylish and luxuriously appointed rooms.

Nigtevechtseweg 186 Vreeland +31 (0)6 5179 8045 www.dewilligenlogies.nl

I AMSTERDAM CITY CARD Get free access to more than 40 of Amsterdam’s major museums, a canal cruise through the city centre and free public transport on all metro, bus and tram lines operated by GVB Amsterdam. www. iamsterdam.com/citycard

AMSTERDAM & REGION DAY TICKET Discover Amsterdam and the surrounding area with the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket – a special 24-hour public transport pass valid on metros, trams and buses (except trains) operated by GVB, Connexxion and EBS. Special offer: combine the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket with the I amsterdam City Card.

Explore the Amsterdam Area and its attractions and save money by picking up the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket for just €10*. *This offer is exclusively available at the I amsterdam Visitor Centres at Central Station and Schiphol Airport.

Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot Only 15 minutes from Amsterdam

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