Martin van Dalen
Ouder-Amstel, the green gem on the outskirts of the capital where the Amstel meanders gently through the landscape. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle and find a place where history, nature and modern dynamism blend seamlessly. From the historic centre of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel to the entrepreneurial character of Duivendrecht and the vast polders of the Ronde Hoep.
In Ouder-Amstel, the past is always close at hand. The stately country estates and centuries-old monuments in the village centre of Ouderkerk tell the story of Amsterdammers who came here centuries ago to seek the coolness of the water. Visit the impressive historic Beth Haim cemetery or admire the characteristic churches that define the village landscape. Here, history doesn’t feel like a museum, but like a living backdrop to everyday life.
Ouder-Amstel is a paradise for those who love to be active. Hop on a bike for a ride through the Ronde Hoep, one of the last open polder areas in the Randstad, where meadow birds reign and the horizon is still truly far away. Or opt for a walk along the banks of the Amstel and the Bullewijk. The routes take you past babbling water, green dykes and surprising vistas, always with that characteristic Dutch light above the meadows.
When you say Ouder-Amstel, you’re talking about culinary indulgence. The municipality is widely renowned for its excellent gastronomy. From Michelin-starred restaurants by the water to cosy traditional pubs and sunny terraces where boats glide past you. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch after a bike ride or an atmospheric dinner with a view of the sun setting over the Amstel.
What makes Ouder-Amstel unique is its central location. Whilst you enjoy the absolute tranquillity of the polder, you can be in the bustling heart of Amsterdam or at the major event venues in Zuidoost within fifteen minutes. It is a place of contrasts: on the one hand, the small-scale nature and village mentality; on the other, the international allure just around the corner.
Ouder-Amstel is authentic, green and surprisingly versatile. A place where you can take a deep breath and enjoy the good life, with the city as an atmospheric backdrop. Discover the charm of this special municipality for yourself!
Set out to visit Amsterdam pioneers in the fields of sustainability, urban agriculture, and greening.
You start in Abcoude and discover two idyllic rivers in one route: the Gein and the Vecht. They have much in common. They meander through a quintessentially Dutch landscape brimming with culture and history.
From the canals of Amsterdam via the quiet Weespertrekvaart to Weesp — 17.4 km long-distance walking route full of water, history, and hidden urban tranquility.
Cycle 32 km past industrial heritage: Westergasfabriek, NDSM Shipyard, Hembrug site, and the North Sea Canal — depart directly from Amsterdam Central or Zaandam.
Set out to visit places that commemorate famous and influential women from the history of Amsterdam.
The Cherry Blossom park is home to 400 donated cherry trees and in spring you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms. In springtime the park is in full bloom for a couple of weeks during which you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms. The Hanami Matsuri festival is also held during this period, with which the Japanese celebrate the arrival of spring. In Japan it is tradition to have a picnic between the cherry trees with family and friends during this celebration. The cherry trees were donated to Amstelveen by the Japan Women's Club. Each tree has been given its own name, one half has been given a Japanese woman's name and the other half a Dutch woman's name.
Ouderkerk aan de Amstel is situated in the Amstelscheg, an open and green area nestled amongst the built-up areas of Amsterdam, which is ideal for walking and cycling. The land at the confluence of the Amstel and the Bullewijk was reclaimed in the 11th century. It is likely that a castle belonging to the Lords of Amstel once stood here. Part of the village is a listed village view. There are several national monuments, including De Zwaan windmill and the Jewish cemetery Beth Haim (House of Life), which was established in the early 17th century for the Jewish community in Amsterdam.
Overcast, 17.1°C
Wind speed: 5.3 knots / 9.8 km/h
Wind direction: West
Ouder-Amstel is the place where the River Amstel winds its way through the green landscape like a silver ribbon and the sky is given space to speak. The weather here is a constant dialogue between the water and the vast polders, with every break in the clouds immediately reflected in the ripples of the stream. Whether the sun is illuminating the monumental church towers of Ouderkerk or the mist is creeping silently across the meadows: Ouder-Amstel is serene, idyllic and always in motion.