Today I’ll take you to Wassenaar, a charming town located in the province of South Holland. Wassenaar is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, cultural heritage, and also for Duinrel. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to do in Wassenaar.
Landgoederen Route
Wassenaar is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. The best way to discover this is by cycling the Estate Route. This cycling route takes you through the grand villa district of Wassenaar and passes through various estates such as the Paauw, Backershagen, and Rust en Vreugd. A must-visit destination is Landgoed de Horsten, an extensive estate with lush forests, winding paths, and serene ponds. This estate is located on the other side of the provincial road and is the perfect place for a forest walk.
Beach Fun
Wassenaar is also located near the coast, so a day at the beach is a must during your visit. Head to Wassenaarse Slag, a beautiful beach known for its vast dunes and refreshing sea air. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim in the North Sea, or simply take a walk along the coastline, this beach offers something for everyone. There are several cozy beach bars where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner with a sunset view over the sea.
There is also a beautiful dune area in Wassenaar, both at Wassenaarse Slag and in the nature reserve Meijendel. In Meijendel, you’ll find a pancake restaurant and a large play area for children. If you prefer solitude, you can find that too. The area is large enough to wander alone along the many paths, and with a bit of luck, you might encounter a deer or fox!
Duinrel Amusement Park
Wassenaar is known for many things but perhaps most notably for Duinrel. Duinrel is a large amusement park on the outskirts of Wassenaar where you can enjoy a day out or even a vacation. The Duinrel campsite has a large number of pitches for campers, but you can also rent a cottage or chalet here. In addition to the park, you’ll find plenty of facilities such as a subtropical swimming paradise, bike rental, and much more. Duinrel, it’s where the fun begins!
Culinary Delights
After a day full of adventure, it’s time to enjoy the local gastronomy. Wassenaar is home to a variety of restaurants and eateries where you can indulge in delicious dishes. Be sure to try the fresh seafood at one of the cozy seafood restaurants, or treat yourself to a traditional Dutch meal at one of the charming eateries. The village has some well-known dining spots; for example, Restaurant de Zonnehof, where you can enjoy delicious traditional pancakes, or opt for a tasty burger or schnitzel.
Langestraat Wassenaar
Wassenaar also offers plenty of shopping and relaxation opportunities. The center is dominated by the Langestraat. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops where you can shop to your heart’s content, as well as several restaurants or you can grab a delicious ice cream at Luciano Wassenaar.
Historical Gems
History enthusiasts will delight in Wassenaar. Be sure to visit Kasteel Duivenvoorde, a beautiful 13th-century castle still inhabited by the original noble family. Take a tour of the castle and its surrounding gardens to catch a glimpse of life in bygone eras. The castle houses a treasure trove of artworks, antique furniture, and historical artifacts.
Wassenaar with a Camper
Wassenaar is excellent to visit with a camper. There are several campsites where you can stay, such as the aforementioned Duinrel amusement park. Just outside the village, you have Camping Maaldrift, nestled amidst the polder, or camping Duinhorst. Duinhorst is located slightly south towards The Hague but is beautifully situated in the forest. If you’re a free spirit, you can also choose to stay ‘wild’ at the Valkenburgse Meer.
Conclusion
Wassenaar is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking natural beauty, historical charm, beach fun, or culinary delights. With its diverse attractions and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place for an unforgettable vacation. So now that you know what to do in Wassenaar, pack your bags!
If you’re looking for more inspiration for a day out or vacation in the Netherlands, take a look here.