Nature in The Hague
Nature lovers rejoice! The Hague is one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands with more than 111,000 acres of dunes, parks, and country estates. It’s also the only major Dutch city that lies right next to the sea, meaning that the beach is always a short tram ride or cycle away.
The Beach and Dunes
Bordered by a stunning range of dunes, the beach stretches out for 11 kilometres. Take a stroll, fly a kite, or take a dip (though all but the hardiest wild swimmers may want to limit the latter to the summer months). With its newly renovated pier and beautiful boulevard, you’ll always feel like you’re on holiday at the beach in The Hague.
And the dunes that line The Hague’s seaside are an attraction in their own right. Cycle routes lead through the dunes, allowing you to take in the scenery while on the bike.
Parks and Forests
With more trees than people, The Hague is full of spaces that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the countryside. The Hague Forest (Haagse Bos) is located right in the middle of the city and is one of the oldest remaining forests in the country. Enjoy walking the nature trails, cycling, picnicking, or birdwatching in this green oasis.
But wherever you are in The Hague, you’ll never be far from parks and nature. Spot a Scottish Highland cow at the Westduinpark or discover the Japanese garden at Clingendael. The Palace Garden is a hidden gem featuring flowerbeds, fountains, hedgerows, and ponds. Other parks to explore include Westbroekpark (which features a much-loved rose garden), Zuiderpark (home of the Parkpop music festival), and the 350-year-old country estate Ockenburg.
Playgrounds
The Hague has many outdoor spaces for children. From the more traditional structure of the Cantaloupenburg to the six-metre-high castle at Ot en Sien playground, there’s something for children of all ages to enjoy. If you’re spending the day in The Hague Forest, there are two play forests for children to enjoy and the sand playground, with its play structures and skateboard park, is close by.
Outdoor Sports
With the beach so close by, there are several recreational activities for fans of outdoor sports. Think surfing, windsurfing, and kite surfing. There’s also plenty of space throughout the city for those who love to walk, cycle or skateboard.
Cycling is a great way to enjoy many of The Hague’s outdoor spaces. Learn more about how to get around by bicycle in the Netherlands. And don’t forget to keep an eye on the weather forecast – the proximity to the sea means it can be very changeable.
