Lakes Near Amsterdam: A Complete Guide for Nature Lovers
Are you thinking of visiting Amsterdam and made up your mind to get away from the crowded streets of the city? Then you’re in luck! The city of Amsterdam has beautiful lakes all around that serve as a heaven for nature enthusiasts. In this thorough guide, we will delve into some of the shiny lakes of Amsterdam and what they have to provide. Pack up your swimsuit, grab your camera, and let’s take the dive!
1. IJsselmeer
The IJsselmeer is a lake with the coast nearby Amsterdam. Once a shallow seaway, it was converted to a freshwater lake in twentieth century. The lake is a recreation destination that has something to do for most of its visitors.
As water sports person, the IJsselmeer with its over 1,600 km2 of water is a true paradise. Sailing, windsurfing and kiteboarding are major activities here. If this is your first time water sports, you can even enroll in the several schools situated on the lake that offers lessons.
Alternatively, if fishing is your choice of leisure activity you can enjoy fishing on the lake. The IJsselmeer is environed by such a wide range of fish, like perch and pike and eel etc. Fishing boats are accessible for rent, and a few areas have designated fishing sites.
2. Loosdrecht Lakes
The Loosdrecht Lakes, situated just southeast of Amsterdam, are a series of interconnected lakes that create beautiful surroundings for swimming and apart from being 5 lakes one great place fro windsurfers.
One reason why people go to Lamington Regional Park is for boating. You are also able to rent a motor boat or a traditional Dutch sloop and discover the lakes at your own leisure. Do not worry, if you never have boating experience, most boat rental companies do offer guidance and safety advice for novices.
Fishing is also enjoyed by the inhabitants of Loosdrecht. There is a wide variety of fish present such as pike, bream and bleak. Do not forget to purchase a fishing license before you start casting your line.
If you are a birdwatcher there is a haven of water fowl in the Loosdrecht Lakes. Look out for swans, ducks, herons and even occasional sightings of the great crested grebe.
3. Vinkeveense Plassen
A journey of a few minutes by car south of Amsterdam brings you to the Vinkeveense Plassen, a stunning network of lakes and islands. This area is roughly perfect for time and nature lovers.
Because of the crystal clarity of the waters, the Vinkeveense Plassen are a favourite for all divers. The underwater visibility here is superb, why not is why it is a popular spot with both beginners and experienced divers. Lots of diving schools operate in the area, providing course and equipment rental.
The lakes are framed by thick lush forest and have designated picnic spots and making it just the perfect spot for family and friend gatherings. You could go hiking around the shoreline and can enjoy a fairly peaceful walk or rent a canoe and explore the many tiny islands that surround the lake.
4. Markermeer
By northeast of Amsterdam is the Markermeer, a vast natural lake which is particularly picturesque and historically of note. It has been built as polder when the land was obtained from the sea.
The fishing harbor Marken is very suitable for sailing, its open waters and steady breezes alike. Whether an seasoned sailor or a novice, you will find that the lake’s vastness is ideal for a day on the water. Do not miss the chance to see the extraordinary scenery and magnificent architecture of the well-known Afsluitdijk, a 32-kilometre-long dike connecting North Holland and Friesland.
If history is indeed your thing then the old island of Marken is definitely worth a visit and can be accessed by ferry or a leisurely bike ride. The island is famous for its traditional architecture and its particular cultural traditions.
Conclusion
Amsterdam and across its vicinity is teeming with beautifully pristine lakes there is shows a plenty of activities and wonderful sight looking attractions.
The IJsselmeer, Loosdrecht Lakes, Vinkeveense Plassen and Markermeer are just a few of the beautiful lakes near Amsterdam. Be it say fishing enthusiast, water sports enthusiast, or a nature enthusiast, this time both have something in store for each one.
So the next time you are in Amsterdam don’t forget to take a break from the city and explore what nature has to offer of these beautiful lakes that are nearby. You won’t be disappointed!
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