Michiel Wijnbergh
Oostzaan is one of the oldest villages in the Zaan region, where nature and history come together. This picturesque ribbon village lies at the heart of a green and water-rich landscape, with the unique Oostzanerveld to the west and the Het Twiske recreation area to the east.
The best way to experience the vast peatland landscape of the Oostzanerveld is from the water, for example in a canoe or small boat, whilst you take in this unique nature reserve in peace and quiet. In Het Twiske, on the other hand, you can get out and about: this recreational area is perfect for walking, cycling, horse riding, water sports and swimming.
For a pleasant stopover, head to the charming town centre or Het Twiske, where a variety of eateries and bars welcome you.
A versatile spot to enjoy nature and tranquillity whilst walking, cycling or boating.
Enjoy a lovely paddle in Het Twiske along the yellow route. Discover the beautiful watery spots in this magnificent recreational area.
The Oostzanerveld is a gem in an urban setting. Here, people and animals enjoy the hundreds of small islands and numerous ditches in complete tranquility… And all this just outside Amsterdam! Did you know that the Oostzanerveld is even a Natura 2000 site?
Ride on horseback through the Het Twiske recreational area near Oostzaan. Enjoy open polders, reed beds, and quiet bridle paths in the heart of North Holland. This riding route takes you right into the characteristic North Holland polder landscape, rich in water, birds, and sweeping vistas.
Put on your walking shoes and discover Oostzaan in a surprising way!
The Rondom Watergang Route is a varied cycling tour around the old "boating village" of Watergang, through the Ilperveld, Het Twiske, and along the Gouwzee.
The Oostzanerveld is a gem in an urban setting. Here, people and animals alike can enjoy the hundreds of little islands and numerous ditches in complete tranquillity… And all this just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam! These islets were once used as pasture land for cattle. The farmer would row out to the cows in a flat-bottomed boat to milk them or move them between the islets. These farmers were known as ‘vaarboeren’ (rowing farmers). A small number of them are still active today, such as De Vaarboerderij in Oostzaan.
Het Twiske Leisure Area, situated in Laag Holland to the north of Amsterdam, is a diverse nature reserve offering plenty of opportunities for relaxation and sport. A third of this leisure area consists of water, providing ample opportunities for swimming, diving, surfing and sailing. For children, Het Twiske is a paradise with fun water activities, such as a play channel, a paddling pool and an adventure playground with a tube fort, cable car, pirate ship, castle and ferries. There are also no fewer than seven small beaches and a harbour. For nature lovers, it is a haven where they can cycle, walk, sail, ride horses and rollerblade undisturbed in a varied landscape.
Fancy a fun night out? Right in the heart of the village of Oostzaan, Theater de KunstGreep is the perfect place to meet up and be amazed. With a wide-ranging programme, they offer something for everyone. Professional theatre performances spanning all theatrical disciplines: music, cabaret, drama, children’s shows and much more. “A world-class theatre with village charm, or a village theatre of world-class standard”. The team is committed to giving personal attention to both the audience and the performers. They warmly invite you! Programme The Theater de KunstGreep Foundation strives to present a varied annual programme for a wide audience from Oostzaan and the surrounding area. The theatre offers professional theatre performances spanning virtually all theatrical disciplines. Currently, the programme features (try-outs of) well-known names, but of course lesser-known artists are also given the opportunity to present themselves to the audience of Oostzaan and the surrounding area.
Overcast, 17.1°C
Wind speed: 5.3 knots / 9.8 km/h
Wind direction: West
Oostzaan is a breath of fresh air for outdoor enthusiasts whatever the season. Spring brings the scent of fresh grass and blossoming verges, summer offers sparkling days on the beaches of Het Twiske, autumn cloaks the polder in dramatic cloudy skies, and winter brings a serene, tranquil atmosphere over the frozen canals.