Nature and history go hand in hand
Castricum lies at the transition from dunes to polder, a landscape rich in contrasts and history. Start your day at Hof van Kijk Uit, a unique café on the edge of the woods. Once a hunting lodge, it is now a place where nature, history and social engagement come together. From here, you can easily walk to the Papenberg Lookout Tower for sweeping views of the dunes, the village and the sea.
At the Duin en Bosch Estate, you’ll discover heritage that captures the imagination: the charming little white church, the stately water tower and the monumental administration building together tell the story of a century of care, architecture and nature.
Discover the villages of Castricum
Every village has its own charm. In Bakkum, you can walk through the vast North Holland Dune Reserve and explore the dune landscape from the De Hoep Visitor Centre. In De Woude, an island village in the Alkmaardermeer, time seems to stand still. With its wooden Zaan-style cottages, sweeping views and winding ditches, it is a paradise for walkers and birdwatchers.
In Limmen, spring literally blossoms. Visit the Hortus Bulborum, a historic garden with over 4,500 varieties of flower bulbs, and admire works of art made from hyacinths during the Flower Days. And in Akersloot, on the Alkmaardermeer, you’ll find the best of the countryside: visit De Oude Knegt windmill, or pop into Museumgemaal 1879 for a dive into the history of water and the polder.
Culinary delights
After a day filled with nature and culture, it’s time to relax. In Castricum, you’ll find plenty of cosy terraces, beach pavilions and atmospheric restaurants. Sample the refined cuisine of Restaurant Apicius in Bakkum – awarded a Michelin star – or enjoy local dishes in unique spots on the beach or in the village centres. Lovers of craftsmanship and flavour can visit Brouwerij Dampegheest in Limmen for a tour and beer tasting. Here you can taste the pure flavours of the region, straight from the source.
Sustainable and local
Castricum is a place to enjoy mindfully. Local businesses are committed to a sustainable future, with products full of flavour and character. Try Castricum cheese, Duindauw beer, or herbal tea from Captain Rommel’s Garden. Stroll past vintage shops full of second-hand treasures or pick your own bouquet at the Bakkum Pick-Your-Own Garden – sustainable, local and quintessentially Castricum.
Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or a bit of hustle and bustle, there’s always something to do in Castricum. From walks on the beach to summer events, from historical trails to culinary discoveries. The combination of coast, culture and village charm makes Castricum a destination that never ceases to surprise.
Plan your visit, head into the dunes or discover the villages full of stories.
