Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland

Forests AND beachy sand dunes, walk or cycle this beautiful national park just outside of Amsterdam.

National Park Zuid-Kennemerland is one of the Netherlands’ 21 national parks.. The park opened in 1995, to focus on protecting the area’s natural development around the dunes.

The park extends over 3,800 hectares, meaning there is a ton of space to become one with nature. One of the most sought out parts of the park is its sand dunes. National Park Zuid holds one of the youngest dunes around the North Sea coast. There’s even a dune fund with different projects to help preserve the unique area. so we can keep visiting and enjoying the beauty of Dutch nature.

What can you do in the park? There are plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained in the national park.

• Hiking and cycling are at the top of the most popular things to do, with downloadable maps for trails. The national park is also a great place for Horseback riding, yoga, picnics in the grass, and summertime swimming.
• Did you know? Over 40% of the plant and animal species in the Netherlands reside in the National Park Zuid! So, if you’re only going to visit one national park in the Netherlands, this one is a good choice! You’re guaranteed to see some interesting creatures on your visit.
• Country estates: enter the fairytale atmosphere of the 9 country estates on the national park’s property. Originally owned by wealthy Dutch families who wanted to escape the city, you can now stroll past the sculpture gardens, picturesque ponds, and even the orangeries that make up this Golden Age atmosphere.
• Kid friendly: This park is well equipped for the adventurous families looking to escape to nature. The park has outdoor playgrounds, scavenger hunts, and even workshops where the kiddos can learn about the park and its inhabitants.