Nature and active in Nieuw-West

Sloterpark and Sloterplas

Sloterpark is one of the largest parks in Amsterdam and offers something for everyone. Within it, you'll find a petting zoo, sunbathing areas, courses for frisbee and endless green spaces for barbecuing, walking, running and relaxing. In the park's heart, you'll find Sloterplas lake, which boasts a large city beach and various designated swimming spots. If you don't fancy a brisk dip, Sloterparkbad is an indoor and outdoor swimming complex beside the lake. The indoor facilities include a 50-metre pool for swimming laps, a wading pool, a slide, whirlpools, a dedicated diving pool and even a waterside bar for drinks and snacks.

Sports

Dig your sports gear out of the closet because Nieuw-West offers countless options for working up a sweat. Reach new heights at the Klimhal climbing wall or get a workout in at the callisthenics park in Osdorp. There’s also plenty of choice for sporty types looking to play a game of padel (Padel Dam and Peakz Padel) or imagine yourself at a French campsite with a game of boules at Jeu de Boulevard.

Sloterplas Loop

Speaking of keeping fit, Nieuw West's many parks and lakeside paths make for some superb jogging routes. A circuit around Sloterplas Lake is approximately 6km long and popular with novice runners due to its helpful measuring points. When you’re feeling ready for the challenge, why not participate in the Sloterplasloop running event in October? This scenic race has 10 and 5k entry points and a 1.5k children’s route.

De Lange Bretten

If Amsterdam has anything close to a jungle, it would be the Lange Bretten nature reserve. Head out on an adventure along the dykes and wetland areas, spotting birds, goats and Scottish Highlanders. In Nieuw-West, you will also find De Natureluur, a natural playground for young and old. Climb trees, try the watercourse complete with floating tree trunks and try not to ruin your trainers in the mud.

Fruittuin van West and Fruittuin van Moerkerken

Many Amsterdammers have to make do with a balcony when it comes to outdoor green spaces. But luckily, thanks to urban farms like Fruittuin van West, everyone can enjoy a bit of green-fingered wholesomeness. Owners Wil and Lisan wanted to create a place where the city and nature come together. There are 20 different species of fruit trees in the large orchard, and in the Winter, you can pick chicory or mushrooms in the shiitake greenhouses. When your bag is full, settle down with a coffee in the Garden Café. Elsewhere, a little closer to Sloterpark, you'll find Fruittuin van Moerkerken – an orchard and urban farm where you can buy jams, conserves and chutneys fresh from the fruit garden. 

Stadsboerderij Osdorp

For nature, good food and getting to know the locals, head down to Stadsboerderij Osdorp. In addition to chickens, rabbits and goats, visitors can lose themselves among the vegetable patches, herb gardens and a children's park. The farm organises many activities throughout the year and is known as a green meeting place for young and old. They also offer courses on healthy living and serve delicious lunches.

Watersports

For anyone seeking a bit more action and adventure, Nieuw West is a haven for watersports and sailing enthusiasts. On the opposite side, De Duikelaar, located at the Northernmost tip of the Sloterplas lake and Watersport Centrum, offer all kinds of rentals and courses for some splashy fun. Check out their options to hire a canoe, kayak, windsurf, sailboat or SUP for the day or participate in one of the many sailing courses for children and adults.