Nature and active in Zuidoost
Nelson Mandela Park
In 2014, Bijlmer Park was renamed Nelson Mandela Park and revamped with new recreational areas. You can hike in the Magnolia Valley up to Butterfly Hill or through the arboretum comprising native trees from the various home countries of residents. Alternatively, use the excellent skate park and sports facilities or catch a performance at the Bijlmer Park Theatre in the middle of the park. Check the schedule for listings of community theatre performances, or inspire your kids and teens by enrolling them in an afternoon circus, dance or theatre class. And don’t miss the annual Kwaku Summer Festival. This multicultural gathering brings people and cultures together for a vibrant combination of food, drink, dance and sport in Nelson Mandela Park.
Gaasperplas
Gaasperplas Park is a gem of a space surrounding a manmade lake that looks anything but artificial. The park is an intricate web of streams, bridges, and walking paths, perfect for biking and horse riding. There’s a wealth of wildlife to be spotted amongst the greenery, including birds, toads, grass snakes and fish. It also has many little nooks to relax in and is home to a couple of beaches, including a family-friendly beach and a small nudist beach (from March to October) and some of the best outdoor swimming spots in town. And if you feel like seeing something typically Dutch, head to the other side of the Weespertrekvaart canal to check out the old Gaaspermolen windmill that dates back to 1707.
De Bijlmerweide
Quiet, green and smelling faintly of manure, De Bijlmerweide is a beautiful, family-friendly farm and cafe. It has a playground and gorgeous animals you can pet, and a menu that’s straight from the land with fresh eggs and homemade honey. On the agenda, you’ll also find a handful of events every year, usually aimed at kids.
Diemerbos
A scenic walk away in the Diemerbos lies House of Bird Brewery, where you can sample speciality beers in the tasting room. The owners take pride in their sustainable, seasonal menu of locally sourced products, and the nearby forest is perfect for a decompressing walk.
Volkstuinpark de Vijf Slagen
Join the allotment trend and start your own garden in Zuidoost, or just simply explore it. Volkstuinpark de Vijf Slagen is mostly full of homegrown fruit and vegetables but many gardens also have beautiful flowers and plants which are wonderful to stroll through.
Sailing
Gaasperplas, the lake itself, is an excellent place for sailing, surfing, rowing, canoeing and other watery activities. There are a couple of sailing clubs on the western shores of the lake where you can rent boats or sign up for sailing courses. Free nearby parking and many facilities make this park an easy place to spend the day. The connected waterways in Zuidoost are some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful sailing routes, so it’s no surprise that painters such as Piet Mondriaan and Simon Maris found inspiration along the banks around here.
Wind and watersports
And if you’re up for an adventurous day out on the water, IJburg is a short cycle away and is the go-to spot for windsurfing. Surfcenter IJburg offers classes for all levels, including those who have never stepped onto a board and those who want to train to be an instructor. All equipment is provided, and Blijburg Beach, where the clubhouse is situated, is the perfect spot to hang loose and watch that glorious Dutch sunset.
Zuidoost cycle route
There’s no better way to explore the parks and countryside of Zuidoost than on two wheels. This Zuidoost cycle route passes through the colourful Heesterveld Creative Community, known for its creative locals and vibrant murals, and then ventures into Gaasperplaspark for windmills and greenery.
