Nature & Outdoors

Despite its location close to Amsterdam, the largest city in the Netherlands, Zaandam offers surprisingly much peace, space and nature.
In the immediate area, you will find a diverse landscape full of special outdoor destinations, nature reserves and recreational routes.
Whether you are walking, cycling or heading out on the water, there is always something to discover.

The Zaan region is part of the beautiful National Landscape Laag Holland, a unique area where nature and humans have coexisted for centuries. Here you experience the Netherlands as many international visitors imagine it: iconic windmills, picturesque bridges, charming houses, and vast meadows crisscrossed by water. Traditional crafts like cheese making and wooden clog production are still visible here.

Thanks to its central location, the North Sea, Wadden Sea, and IJsselmeer are never far away. Set off and explore the Zaan landscape: walk along dikes, cycle through polders and peat meadows abundant with meadow birds. Explore ditches, reed beds, and pollard willows, or experience the area from the water. Relaxation guaranteed.

Zaanse Schans

When you think of the Zaan region, you picture the iconic polder landscape: vast green meadows, winding ditches, and dikes. Seemingly simple, yet full of life, tranquility, and typical Dutch charm for curious visitors. Distance 6.4km

Recreation Area Het Twiske

Het Twiske is a large nature and recreation area near Oostzaan. Experience a diverse landscape with water, forest, and marsh. Ideal for swimming, cycling, boating, and nature exploration. A great spot for relaxation and outdoor activity. Distance 7.4 km

Wormer- and Jisperveld

Explore this protected natural area with vast peat meadows, numerous waterways, and a rich bird population. A paradise for nature lovers, peace seekers, and birdwatchers in the characteristic Dutch landscape near the Zaan region. Distance 9.5 km

Beemster Polder

Dive into the history of this World Heritage Site where a battle against water was won more than 400 years ago. Living, working, and recreating 3.5 meters below sea level. Discover this unique polder area with its villages and beautiful countryside. Distance 18.9 km

Wijk aan Zee

The North Holland Dune Reserve is one of the largest natural areas in the country. From Wijk aan Zee to the Schoorl Dunes, it stretches about 20 kilometers long and 2.5 kilometers wide. In this beautiful area, you’ll find dunes, beach, and forests. Distance 21.1 km

South Kennemerland National Park

This nature reserve offers an oasis of tranquility bordering the vibrant Randstad. In the ever-changing dune landscapes and forests, you’ll find no less than 40% of all plant and animal species in the Netherlands. Let nature surprise you. Distance 28.9 km

Marken Peninsula

The circular route around the peninsula is a beautiful 10-kilometer walk. The island was separated from the mainland during a storm in the 13th century. The centuries of isolation that followed led to the development of unique traditions. Distance 29.1 km

Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes

Covering 3,400 hectares, the Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes are one of the largest walking areas in the Netherlands. Cycling is not allowed, making it a pleasant spot for walkers. Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Distance 42.1 km

Schoorl Dunes

Climb the Schoorl Dunes, the highest dune area in the Netherlands, and enjoy nature, peace, and space. Discover forests, birds, and mushrooms as sunlight playfully dances through the leaves. There’s plenty of room here to get some fresh sea air. Distance 45.6 km