Top 20 Lakes around Boskoop
Best lakes around Boskoop are found in the surrounding region, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. While Boskoop itself is a town, it is conveniently located near significant water bodies such as the Reeuwijk Lakes, the Nieuwkoop Lakes, and the water features within the Bentwoud Nature Reserve. These areas provide a range of activities from water sports to nature observation. The region's geography is characterized by shallow peat lakes, polders, and developing forest areas with integrated water features.
Best lakes around Boskoop
- The most popular lakes is Reeuwijkse Forest, a lake that offers walks along the water and through typical Dutch polders. It provides a pleasant area for walking and includes a restaurant and parking.
- Another must-see spot is The Eendrachtsmolen, a man-made monument, a historic ground sailor mill built in 1727. It is located at the Zevenhuizer Verlaat and can serve as a water changer for the Rotte.
- Visitors also love Bentwoud Nature Reserve, a forest that is a new nature and recreation area between Zoetermeer and Boskoop. It is the largest contiguous forest area in the Randstad, featuring 2.5 million planted trees and 80 kilometers of paths.
- Boskoop is known for its shallow peat lakes, nature reserves, and integrated water features within forest areas. These provide opportunities for water sports, quiet exploration, and nature observation.
- The lakes around Boskoop are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and 39 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Vlietdijk along the Reeuwijk Lakes
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The Eendrachtsmolen
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Reeuwijkse Forest
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Drawbridge Hortemansdijk
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Bentwoud Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Kayaking on the Reeuwijkse Plassen is also a great way to enjoy the water. You can board at several locations.
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Beautiful surroundings with many lovely vistas and a view of the Reeuwijkse Plassen.
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Lovely area for an evening walk. On a nice weekend day I'd rather stay away.
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Beautiful trip along lots of water. Trip over many paved "hiking" paths, with limited bike and car traffic. Nice restaurant with lots of parking.
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The Eendrachtsmolen is a ground-sailer located at the Zevenhuizer Verlaat, between the Hennipsloot and the Rottemeren, near Zevenhuizen ZH. This mill, which was built in 1727, originally functioned as a reservoir mill to drain the water from two mill runs that have since disappeared. Nowadays, the mill can be used as a water freshener for the Rotte. The mill also serves as a home. Since 1949, the mill has been owned by the Hoogheemraadschap van Schieland, which has since merged with the Hoogheemraadschap van Schieland en de Krimpenerwaard. The sail cross has rods of approximately 28 metres long and is equipped with the traditional old Dutch fence with sails. The water is pumped up using a scoop wheel.
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Beautiful park between Zoetermeer, Benthuizen and Waddinxveen. Plenty of benches, beautiful paths, more and more animals, pheasants, magpies, foxes, water birds etc. The intention is that an MTB route will also be created.
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Truly beautiful mill This mill was built in 1727/1728, so beautiful
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The Bentwoud is a new nature and recreation area in the Randstad, between Zoetermeer and Boskoop. It may be a young forest, but the design of the nature reserve was completed in 2016, but it is already a large forest. In recent years, 2.5 million trees and shrubs have been planted and 80 kilometers of walking and cycling paths have been constructed. And yet you have the space: with over 800 hectares, the Bentwoud is the largest contiguous forest area in the Randstad. Although the Bentwoud is still developing, many special birds, butterflies and plants can already be found there. There is also a lot to experience for visitors. You can enjoy a lovely walk there, or go on an excursion with the ranger. Throughout the area you can get off the paths and stroll through the forest. https://www.staatsbosbeheer.nl/uit-in-de-natuur/locations/bentwoud https://bentwoud.info/?page_id=28 https://www.zoetermeerisdeplek.nl/ontspanning/in-de-natuur/bentwoud
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around Boskoop's lakes?
The region around Boskoop is characterized by diverse natural landscapes, primarily shallow peat lakes, polders, and developing forest areas with integrated water features. You'll find open water fringed by reeds, bordered by polders, and extensive new forests like the Bentwoud Nature Reserve.
Are there any protected nature reserves near Boskoop's lakes?
Yes, the Nieuwkoop Lakes (Nieuwkoopse Plassen) constitute a significant protected nature reserve, spanning 1400 hectares. While certain areas are restricted to safeguard breeding birds and vulnerable plant species, much of the area is accessible for public exploration. The Bentwoud Nature Reserve is also a developing natural area with ecological value.
What water sports are popular on the lakes near Boskoop?
The Reeuwijk Lakes are popular for sailing, windsurfing, swimming, and fishing. Kayaking is also a great way to enjoy the water there, with several boarding locations. The Nieuwkoop Lakes offer opportunities for boating, fishing (pike, pikeperch, or carp), and in winter, ice skating and ice-sailing.
Are there good opportunities for walking or cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Reeuwijk Lakes area is ideal for cycling and walking along the shores and through typical Dutch polders. The Bentwoud Nature Reserve features 80 kilometers of walking and cycling paths. For more structured routes, you can explore various hiking trails and cycling routes around Boskoop, many of which pass by these water features.
Can I go bird watching near the lakes around Boskoop?
Yes, the lakes around Boskoop are excellent for bird watching. The Nieuwkoop Lakes, as a protected nature reserve, are a haven for diverse bird species. The Bentwoud Nature Reserve, despite being a young forest, is already home to special birds like the Great Bittern and Bluethroat. The Reeuwijk Lakes also attract various meadow and water birds.
Are there any family-friendly activities or spots around the lakes?
Many areas are family-friendly. The Reeuwijkse Forest offers pleasant walks and has a restaurant and parking. The Surfplas at Reeuwijk Lakes provides lawns for sunbathing and playing, along with screened-off swimming areas suitable for small children. The Bentwoud Nature Reserve offers extensive paths for family walks and cycling.
What winter activities are available on the lakes?
During colder months, when temperatures permit, the Nieuwkoop Lakes become a popular spot for ice skating and ice-sailing. These activities offer a unique way to experience the frozen landscape.
How can I get to the Reeuwijk Lakes by public transport?
While direct public transport to every specific spot around the Reeuwijk Lakes might be limited, you can typically reach nearby towns like Reeuwijk or Bodegraven by bus or train, and then proceed to the lakes by local transport, cycling, or walking. It's advisable to check current local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Are there places to eat or relax near the lakes?
Yes, for instance, the Reeuwijkse Forest highlight includes a restaurant and ample parking space, making it a good spot for a break. Along the Zuideinde at the Nieuwkoop Lakes, you'll find harbors and boat rental facilities, often with nearby eateries. The wider region also offers various cafes and pubs.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Boskoop?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, cycling, and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn offers beautiful colors for walking and cycling. In winter, if temperatures drop sufficiently, the Nieuwkoop Lakes become a destination for ice skating and ice-sailing. Bird watching is also rewarding in various seasons.
Are there any historical landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, a notable historical landmark is The Eendrachtsmolen. This beautiful ground sailor mill was built in 1727 and is located at the Zevenhuizer Verlaat, near the Rottemeren. It originally functioned to drain water and can now serve as a water changer for the Rotte, also serving as a home.
What makes the Reeuwijk Lakes a popular destination?
The Reeuwijk Lakes are popular for their serene environment and multitude of recreational opportunities. They offer excellent conditions for sailing, windsurfing, swimming, and fishing. The picturesque landscape, with its shallow peat lakes and polders, is also ideal for cycling and walking, attracting both active recreation seekers and those looking for relaxation.
What unique natural features can be found in the Bentwoud Nature Reserve?
The Bentwoud Nature Reserve is the largest contiguous forest area in the Randstad, featuring 2.5 million planted trees and shrubs. It includes various integrated water bodies that contribute to its developing ecosystem. Despite being a young forest, it's already home to a variety of special birds, butterflies, and plants, offering a unique green space close to urban areas.
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