Nature and active in Amstelveen
There’s nothing like a day out in the open air, filled with sports and fun. Luckily, Amstelveen has a wealth of opportunities that will suit every taste. Cycle through the lush greenery of the Amsterdam Forest or take to the water, or, if you’d rather push yourself to the limit, climb into the treetops or challenge your friends to a tennis match. The world is your oyster.
Cycle through the forest
Grab a rental or bring your own steel steed and enjoy a ride through the Amsterdamse Bos and the Amstelveen surroundings. The tranquil setting of the forest is perfect for a bike ride and is the most convenient way to get around as the lush grounds span 1,000 hectares. With great biking lane infrastructure and many amenities, a forest ride can easily become a choose-your-own-adventure into the forest and beyond.
Take a historic walking route
Explore the history of Amstelveen on foot on a designated walking route alive with hidden gems and striking stories. The historic village is its own open-air museum, and the Historical Route Amstelveen will explain the neighbourhood's rich history through various information panels at points of interest. Learn about the origins of the settlement, exceptional inhabitants and remarkable buildings - from Amstelveen's origins as a centuries-old farming village in a peat bog to the Second World War.
Soak up the lakeside views
The De Poel lake was created as a result of peat excavations in the 19th century and, unlike many other water bodies in the area, was never reclaimed. Enjoy the soothing sounds, fresh air and beautiful natural scenery on a four-kilometre loop of the lake. The route starts and ends at Urbanuskerk and is the perfect way to unwind and forget the stress of the day.
Explore the Amstelland Nature Area
The Middelpolder is a quiet park with a network of narrow ditches, walking and cycling paths and many reed birds. So don't forget your binoculars. All this lush greenery is part of the Amstelland Recreational Area and Nature Reserve, between Amstelveen and the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal. Here you can walk, cycle, sail, horse ride, rollerblade and run to your heart's content. When you fancy a rest, there are several beaches, picnic areas and playing and sunbathing areas to unwind at.
Rent a canoe, kayak or SUP
Rental canoes, kayaks and water bikes are available from Kanoverhuur Amsterdamse Bos. You can follow two canoe routes that have been marked with coloured poles along the forest waterways. Arrangements start from one hour and upwards, and the canoes have room for up to three people. Alternatively, get out on the water with a SUP rental from Sup & Meer - a paddle school in the heart of Amsterdamse Bos. With options that include an accompanied lesson or your own free time, you can get the most out of a good weather day and a full body workout at the same time.
Play a game of tennis, padel and squash
You will find many tennis courts and amenities surrounding the Amsterdam Forest and in Amstelveen. Venture to the Sportcentrum Amstelpark for a massive playground with no fewer than 36 tennis courts. You can also check out the Tennis Club Amsterdam or Tennis Club Amsterdamse Bos.
Take to trees on an adventure course
Last but not least, the Klimbos Fun Forest climbing park is perfect for some adventurous and rigorous exercise. With over 10 climbing routes stretching from 2.5 and up to 15 meters in height, there are levels for everyone’s fitness and bravery levels. The park is open to children from 6 years old and is the perfect challenge for new and experienced climbers.
Tip: Klimbos is also included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Stroll through a lush country estate
Curious about what 400 years of outdoor life has looked like in Amstelveen? Visit the Wester-Amstel Country Estate & Park which dates back to 1662 and breathes history in its many nooks and crannies. The grounds and sculpture gardens are an oasis of peace and calm in the middle of the countryside and can be explored with a free downloadable audio tour and map.
Discover impressive trees and flora
Amstelveen's Heemparken is internationally regarded - and once you've explored them, you'll understand why. The area, which consists of three connected parks (Dr Jac. P. Thijssepark, De Braak and Koos Landwehrpark), is characterised and praised for its indigenous planting. All of the gardens contain original wild plants and trees from the Netherlands and you'll frequently spot local fauna and birds inhabiting the green surroundings. The main entrance to the Heemparken is on the corner of Emmakade and Prins Bernhardlaan and a walking path connects them all.
