Gemeente Haarlemmermeer
The unique polder landscape of Haarlemmermeer is the ideal place to unwind completely. Here you’ll find a varied landscape featuring woods, recreational areas, endless dykes, beautiful lakes and the distinctive Ringvaart. The open spaces and sweeping views make this area perfect for walking, cycling and enjoying nature.
As well as its natural surroundings, the municipality of Haarlemmermeer comprises no fewer than 31 villages and hamlets, each with its own unique atmosphere. Here you’ll discover cosy restaurants, cafés, museums and shops. You’ll also find remarkable monuments, such as the forts of the Defence Line of Amsterdam. Furthermore, the historic pumping stations play an important role in the history of the polder. With the help of these impressive steam-powered pumping stations, the Haarlemmermeer was reclaimed in the 19th century. The best-known example is the Cruquius Museum, where you can still admire the enormous steam engine. A visit to this museum is well worth it if you want to learn more about how the polder came into being.
There’s no better way to explore Haarlemmermeer than by following a lovely cycling or walking route. For example, cycle past historic forts and windmills and experience the polder’s heritage up close. Or take a walk through the Haarlemmermeerse Bos, past Big Spotters Hill and across the Geniedijk. Along the way, you can enjoy the views and learn more about the history of this unique polder.
Stroll through a green wilderness full of plants and animals, while railway lines and highways are still nearby.
Cycle 42 km through Hoofddorp, the north of Haarlemmermeer past the Cruquius Pumping Station, the Stompe Toren, forts on the Amsterdam Defence Line, and the Haarlemmermeerse Bos.
You might not realize it immediately, but with this stage, you are actually walking along the southern borders of the big city of Amsterdam. It used to be busy around Halfweg, but peace returns now as you pass through the Tuinen van West and Lutkemeerpark. It is also lovely to walk on the grassy dike along the ring canal of the Haarlemmermeer. The planes are still there, but Amsterdam also has plenty of greenery, and this walking route to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel proves it. City and nature alternate continuously.
Walk 17.3 km from Hoofddorp NS station along the historic Geniedijk, through the Haarlemmermeerse Bos and over the towpath along the Spaarne to Haarlem.
Discover Haarlemmermeer by bike! The Polder Route (47 km) starts in Hoofddorp and takes you past pumping stations, the Amsterdam Defence Line, and De Olmenhorst Estate. Plan your ride today!
Cycle 44 km past art, monuments, and greenery in Haarlemmermeer North. From Hoofddorp and the Haarlemmermeerse Bos via Vijfhuizen to the Geniedijk.
Cycle 42.8 km past 11 villages in Haarlemmermeer. From Zwaanshoek via the Ringvaart and Westeinderplassen to Nieuw-Vennep.
Be inspired by the many cycling and walking routes and choose your favourite. You can find more routes, tips and inspiration at visithaarlemmermeer.nl. Also check out the charging points for your e-bike. You’ll never get bored in Haarlemmermeer!
The Tour of the Defence Line of Amsterdam offers a choice of four distances along various cycling routes. Choose a ride of 40, 100, 120 or 170 km and start in Uitgeest or Uithoorn. The routes take you through the vast and green water landscape in and around Amsterdam. Explore the routes on the map and see where you’ll find refreshment stations along the way.
Overcast, 17.1°C
Wind speed: 5.3 knots / 9.8 km/h
Wind direction: West
Haarlemmermeer is a lovely place to enjoy outdoor activities all year round. Take a walk through the polder landscape, hop on a bike, or explore the region’s green spaces and waterways. Do bear in mind the changeable weather, so you can make the most of Haarlemmermeer whatever the season.
Haarlemmermeer
Windmolen Haarlemmermeer
Haarlemmermeer
Haarlemmermeer
