Top 20 Lakes in South Holland
Best lakes in South Holland are found within a diverse landscape characterized by polders, dunes, and waterways. This province in the Netherlands offers numerous bodies of water, from expansive former estuaries to smaller recreational lakes. The region's geography provides varied opportunities for water-based activities and nature exploration. These lakes are integral to the local environment and offer distinct natural features.
Best lakes in South Holland
- The most popular lakes is Rottemeren, a lake that is suitable for walking and…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Rottemeren
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View over the Grevelingenmeer
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Meijendel Dune Lakes
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Haringvliet Dam and Haringvliet Locks
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Gravel path to the Ouddorp Harbor
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Vlietdijk along the Reeuwijk Lakes
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Tenellaplas Visitor Centre
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The visitor center of the 'Zuid-Hollands Landschap' (South Holland Landscape) is the gateway to the dunes of Voorne. A good start for your walk. Are you looking …
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Beach at Oosterduinse Meer
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Broekpolder Nature and Recreation Area
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The Eendrachtsmolen
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Popular around South Holland
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Pilgrim Trail (LAW 7-1) - Through idyllic villages and vast polders
Naples to North Cape — Two friends, one purpose and many scoops of ice-cream
LF Maasroute – From Maastricht to Rotterdam along the Meuse River
From Amsterdam to London - along the North Sea and across the water
The North Sea Coast Cycle Route — Netherlands and Belgium
The Rhine Cycle Path — From the source to the North Sea
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
The Hollands Duin on foot – walking between forests, dunes and sea
Hiking around Noordwijk – routes with dunes, flowers and sea
Other adventures in South Holland
Tips from the Community
Dreamlike gravel path on the dike with a great view of the water. Can also be ridden well with a road bike.
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Kayaking on the Reeuwijkse Plassen is also a great way to enjoy the water. You can board at several locations.
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Very nice pavilion and great hiking area.
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It’s very narrow and very windy up there, and it gets difficult when there is oncoming traffic
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Beautiful surroundings with many lovely vistas and a view of the Reeuwijkse Plassen.
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The Berkheide and Meijendel dune areas are home to an enormous diversity of plant and animal species due to the varied vegetation, moisture content, and lime content. This includes rare plants and herbs, as many as 250 bird species, a huge variety of insects, and even the sand lizard and the natterjack toad.
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Lovely terrace at the (swimming) water
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Very nice trail… You can also ride it with a normal bike, you don't necessarily need a mountain bike… We'll be back, that's for sure 😉
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around the lakes in South Holland?
South Holland's lakes are set within diverse landscapes. You'll find expansive polder areas, characteristic peat meadows around the Reeuwijk Lakes, and dune landscapes like those surrounding the Meijendel Dune Lakes. The region also features former estuaries, now functioning as large freshwater or saltwater lakes, such as the Grevelingenmeer and Haringvliet, offering unique natural environments.
Are there good opportunities for water sports on the lakes in South Holland?
Yes, many lakes offer excellent water sports opportunities. The Reeuwijk Lakes are popular for sailing, canoeing, swimming, and even ice skating in winter. The Grevelingenmeer, as the largest saltwater lake in Western Europe, is a prime spot for sailing, windsurfing, and diving. You can also enjoy canoeing at Rottemeren and boating on the Haringvliet.
Which lakes are suitable for family-friendly activities?
Several lakes in South Holland are great for families. Rottemeren offers enjoyable paths for walking and cycling, with options for canoeing. The Beach at Oosterduinse Meer provides a pleasant sandy beach and clear water for swimming. The Tenellaplas Visitor Centre, near the dunes, offers family-friendly activities like catching aquatic animals in summer and autumn expeditions.
Can I find hiking and cycling routes around the lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes are integrated into extensive networks of hiking and cycling paths. Rottemeren is known for its beautiful paths through nature, suitable for both. The Vlietdijk along the Reeuwijk Lakes is another scenic cycling route. For more options, you can explore various routes in the region, including those found in the Cycling in South Holland guide or the Running Trails in South Holland guide.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical significance. The impressive Haringvliet Dam and Haringvliet Locks are part of the Delta Works, a major engineering feat. You can also visit The Eendrachtsmolen, a historic mill built in 1727, located near the Rottemeren.
Where can I enjoy scenic views of the lakes?
For breathtaking vistas, visit View over the Grevelingenmeer, which offers brilliant panoramic views. The technical gravel path along the Grevelingenmeer is also a great spot. Many cycling and walking paths, such as those around the Reeuwijk Lakes, provide picturesque views where water and land converge.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are rich in wildlife. The Haringvliet is an important area for nature and birdwatching. The area around the Tenellaplas Visitor Centre is one of the most species-rich dune areas in Western Europe, home to almost two-thirds of Dutch breeding bird species and over half of all wild plant species.
Are there places to eat or relax by the water?
Yes, you can find establishments by the water at several locations. The Beach at Oosterduinse Meer has places where visitors can enjoy lunch or dinner with a charming ambiance. The harbor of Ouddorp, near the Grevelingenmeer, also offers dining options.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in South Holland?
Visitors frequently praise the serene natural beauty and the diverse range of activities available. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths for cycling and walking, the opportunities for water sports, and the peaceful atmosphere. The unique combination of polder landscapes, dunes, and expansive water bodies makes for a varied and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Are there any nature reserves with lakes in the region?
Yes, the Broekpolder Nature and Recreation Area is a varied natural area featuring a lake, dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, ideal for hiking. The area around the Tenellaplas Visitor Centre also serves as a gateway to the species-rich Voorne Dunes.
What are some popular activities for mountain biking near the lakes?
While specific mountain biking trails directly around every lake might vary, the region offers excellent gravel biking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Kinderdijk Windmills Loop' or the 'Westduinpark and Wapendal Dunes' in the Gravel biking in South Holland guide, which often traverse areas with water features and scenic landscapes.
Most popular routes in South Holland
Most popular attractions in South Holland
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