Best lakes around Uithoorn offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Uithoorn is situated near the scenic Zijdelmeer and provides access to the expansive Westeinderplassen, a significant lake district. The region features a mix of natural lakes, former peat excavation areas, and marshy forests. These areas are suitable for various outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, and water sports.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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De Poel is a lake located between Amstelveen and the Amsterdamse Bos. This lake was created in the 19th century by peat excavations and has never been reclaimed. Today, De Poel is used by water sports enthusiasts, but it is also well-known among restaurant lovers thanks to the adjacent two-Michelin-star restaurant "Aan de Poel."
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Great long bike path along the canal, it can be windy at times
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An early start on Sunday is recommended. You hear and see nature awakening!
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Nice place to take a photo, especially with a blue cloud cover.
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Raised benches have been installed in some places in the Groene Jonker to enjoy a good view. I can imagine that it is busy here in the spring with many bird watchers who would like a high bench.
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De Groene Jonker is a beautiful nature reserve near the Nieuwkoopse Plassen in the province of South Holland. It is a relatively young nature reserve that has developed into an important place for many bird species and other animals. The area is approximately 100 hectares and consists of a mix of shallow ponds, reedlands, bushes and grasslands. The landscape of De Groene Jonker is therefore a varied and attractive habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna. One of the characteristics of this area is the rich bird life. It is a birdwatcher's paradise, with a variety of bird species visiting or breeding in the area, including spoonbills, waders, ducks, and geese. De Groene Jonker is an important stopping place for migratory birds, especially in spring and autumn. The purple heron, the black tern and various species can also be spotted here. The wet parts of De Groene Jonker are particularly valuable for amphibians and fish. The flora in the area is also versatile with special plant species that thrive in the practical and rich food conditions. The area is open to visitors, with several hiking trails and viewpoints from which men can admire nature. De Groene Jonker is managed by Natuurmonumenten, and the management is aimed at preserving and increasing the natural diversity of the area, while also providing space for recreation and education. Together with the Nieuwkoopse Plassen, the nature reserve forms a unique and important nature reserve in the Green Heart of the Netherlands. #WandelTotaal
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This nature reserve is worthwhile in all seasons. Can be muddy after rainy periods.
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Uithoorn is ideally located near the scenic Zijdelmeer and offers easy access to the expansive Westeinderplassen. Other notable lakes include View of The Pool, a lake formed by 19th-century peat excavations, and the Ouderkerkerplas, a quarry pond popular for recreation.
The lakes offer a variety of activities. The Westeinderplassen is a paradise for water sports like surfing, supping, canoeing, and sailing. For land-based activities, you can find numerous routes for cycling and running. For example, you can explore road cycling routes or running trails that pass by these beautiful waters.
Yes, the region is excellent for cycling. You can enjoy a Bike path along the Westeinder Plassen, which offers great views of boats and birds on well-maintained asphalt. Another option is the Cycle Path Along the Braassemermeer, known for its very good path and scenic surroundings.
The Zijdelmeer area includes the Zijdelse Zomp, a marshy forest rich in diverse flora and fauna, ideal for observing rare plants and various bird species. The Westeinderplassen features extensive reed beds and marsh forests, providing habitats for numerous birds and fish species like pike and eel. The Groene Jonker Nature Reserve is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with spoonbills, waders, and various ducks and geese.
Yes, many areas are family-friendly. The Zijdelmeer is great for walks and cycling, and the flat terrain makes it accessible. The Westeinderplassen offers public islands for day recreation and sheltered routes for water sports, making it enjoyable for all ages. The View of The Pool and Ouderkerkerplas are also categorized as family-friendly highlights.
The Zijdelmeer originated around the year 1000 as a small stream that drained peatlands into the Amstel river, gradually expanding due to erosion. The Westeinderplassen is a unique area with over 400 islands, many of which were originally remnants of peat harvesting. The View of The Pool was also created in the 19th century by peat excavations.
Yes, the Westeinderplassen area, in particular, has various cafes, restaurants, and marinas in the surrounding villages. The View of The Pool is also known for its adjacent two-Michelin-star restaurant 'Aan de Poel'.
On the Westeinderplassen, the iconic Aalsmeer water tower, a 51-meter-high Art Deco monument from 1928, is a prominent landmark. Many cycling paths, such as the Bike path along the Westeinder Plassen, offer excellent viewpoints of the water and surrounding landscape.
The region is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer are particularly popular for water sports and cycling. The diverse ecosystems, especially in areas like the Groene Jonker Nature Reserve, make it an important stopping place for migratory birds in spring and autumn, offering unique birdwatching opportunities.
Uithoorn serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the Westeinderplassen, and the Zijdelmeer is located directly within Uithoorn. Public transport options are available to connect Uithoorn with surrounding areas and access points to the larger lake districts.
The Westeinderplassen is a popular area for water sports. While specific permits for general recreation are usually not required for casual use, it's always advisable to check local regulations for specific activities like fishing or mooring, especially given the many privately owned islands.


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