Summary
Situated in the western part of Netherlands within the South Holland province, Zoetermeer has transformed from a modest village in the 1960s to a sizable urban area, ranking as the third largest city in the region, following The Hague and Rotterdam. The early formation of Zoetermeer as a village did not occur until the 13th century.
The name of the city is derived from the lake that existed here before its reclamation in the 1600s. As The Hague prospered, the demand for additional housing surged, prompting many individuals to relocate to Zoetermeer, which fueled its growth during the 1960s. This city embodies a distinctive blend of historical traditions and modern developments, making it an intriguing destination that offers a harmonious mix of both old and contemporary culture.
Let us examine the top attractions in Zoetermeer:
1. Westerpark
This expansive public park provides an excellent environment to appreciate the outdoors and nature.
Westerpark is located in the western section of Zoetermeer, adjacent to the A12 highway.
With over 220 acres of landscaped grounds, it is truly a remarkable location for exploration.
The park features wooded areas, reed beds, numerous playgrounds, and various waterways accentuated by charming bridge crossings.
At the center of the park, an island offers a small nature garden to explore.
For those seeking tranquility and an opportunity to enjoy pleasant weather away from the city, Westerpark serves as an ideal retreat.
2. Zoetermeer SnowWorld
For those seeking a unique outing and wanting to engage in a variety of thrilling activities, Zoetermeer SnowWorld presents an excellent choice.
Established in 1996, this ski resort is recognized as the largest indoor ski facility globally and boasts real snow. This impressive venue features 10 ski lifts and three distinct ski slopes, complete with ramps, bumps, and challenging hills.
Visitors can attempt skiing and snowboarding or opt for private lessons from certified instructors.
Apart from the skiing offerings, amenities include a gym, saunas, massage services, and a beauty clinic.
If you find yourself hungry after hours of skiing, there are four diverse restaurants available to satisfy your appetite!
3. Balijbos Park
Another exceptional park in Zoetermeer, Balijbos Park represents a modern initiative that continues to thrive as a created natural sanctuary.
Having been established merely 25 years ago, visitors to Balijbos Park can experience this area in its early stages of development.
This extensive park, located opposite the A12 from the more established Westerpark, is easily accessible.
The park features a diverse range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and swamps.
In addition to scenic walking paths and woodlands, Balijbos Park boasts a petting zoo and a children’s playground designed to resemble a castle.
For a day filled with enjoyment and adventure, Balijbos Park serves as a splendid venue.
4. Buytenpark
This relatively flat and open park is situated behind the SnowWorld establishment and should be included in any itinerary for a day in Zoetermeer.
Originally a landfill, this 100-acre area has been transformed into a combination of public park and grazing land for livestock and wildlife.
Ideal for mountain bikers, this park features numerous winding paths and uneven terrain that offers a stimulating ride.
If cycling is not your interest, you can traverse the trails on foot, enjoy a picnic, or partake in birdwatching, observing various butterflies and raptors that may frequent the area.
5. Zoetermeerse Plas
Situated in the northern region of Zoetermeer, this expansive body of water offers a diverse range of sights and activities.
The grounds surrounding Zoetermeerse Plas are extensive, providing ample trails for cycling and walking.
Additionally, the lakeshore includes several beaches, one of which is designated as a nudist beach, where relaxation in the sun is encouraged, or where guests can engage in paddling.
Moreover, various restaurants and cafes line the area, offering diverse dining options, along with numerous locations for water sports involvement.
If you enjoy boating, swimming, or jet skiing, this is the ideal destination for you!
6. Stadshart Zoetermeer
For those seeking a stimulating shopping experience, the Stadshart complex is an excellent location to explore a variety of retail options.
Conveniently situated at the city’s center, this complex has evolved over many years to house an impressive selection of shops and restaurants.
Shops such as C&A, H&M, Primark, and Esprit are included, as well as numerous smaller, independent businesses.
Furthermore, there is a fitness center, a public library, and a wide range of fast-food outlets and gourmet dining establishments available.
7. Aquapark Keerpunt
Located within Van Tuyllpark in the eastern part of Zoetermeer, Keerpunt Aquapark is a delightful spot for family fun.
This outdoor facility is most suitable for visits during the spring and summer months.
Guests can enjoy a variety of swimming pools, including a dedicated area for toddlers, a 75-meter high water slide, and an exciting water current for relaxation.
For those seeking energetic activities and a venue for a joyful afternoon, this water park is an excellent selection.
8. Ayers Rock Zoetermeer
Located merely a short distance from SnowWorld, the captivating Ayers Rock entertainment center awaits.
This expansive facility can accommodate up to 800 guests and offers a plethora of activities, including rock climbing, canoeing, an obstacle course, and even a mountain biking trail.
Inside, the center features a towering climbing wall rising to 17 meters, an archery range, and a dartboard for entertainment.
For active individuals and families, Ayers Rock provides hours of engaging entertainment.
9. Molen de Hoop
Across the Netherlands, several restored windmills can be found.
Given the country’s flat terrain, windmills have traditionally been utilized in various sectors.
Molen de Hoop, which translates to “Hope,” is a stone windmill dating back to 1897, solely serving the flour grinding and baking industries.
With blades reaching 24 meters and a distinctive whitewashed exterior, this windmill is an impressive sight.
Visitors can explore the windmill on select days to witness its operations, as it continues to grind flour, and a shop selling baked goods produced on-site is also available.
10. Take a Day Trip to The Hague
While Rotterdam is situated southwest of Zoetermeer, The Hague lies to its west and can be accessed in just 15 minutes by car.
Public transportation by bus and train offers easy access to the political center as well.
As the administrative hub of the Netherlands (though not the capital), The Hague boasts a rich historical narrative and is filled with impressive architecture and museums.
Notable attractions encompass the Binnenhof, the beautiful Ridderzaal hall, the Peace Palace, the Prison Gate Museum, and the Saint Jacob’s Church.
Additionally, the coastal resort of Scheveningen draws many visitors with its sandy beaches and amusement options.
11. Take a Day Trip to Rotterdam
Located just 20 minutes south of Zoetermeer, the bustling city and port of Rotterdam await exploration.
As the third-largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is a highly sought-after tourist destination, showcasing a myriad of attractions and points of interest.
Travel by train or bus, which takes approximately 40 minutes due to multiple stops, or drive, which is the most efficient route.
This vibrant city features highlights such as the Euromast viewing tower, the Erasmusbrug bridge, the Royal Zoo, and the expansive Europort.
Particularly, Europort is a must-see, and a boat excursion is highly recommended.
12. Zoetermeer Water Tower
Resembling a large pepper pot, this ornate water tower stands as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and can be viewed from various locations throughout Zoetermeer.
Constructed in 1927, the tower reaches just under 49 meters, with the reservoir at its pinnacle capable of holding 500 cubic meters of water.
This striking structure features an unusual and imposing design characterized by a hexagonal shaft, a domed roof, and a series of slender windows.
Although climbing the tower is not permitted, visitors can appreciate this architectural accomplishment and capture stunning photographs.
13. Oude Kerk
While the Oude Kerk may not rank among the oldest churches in the Netherlands, it certainly possesses considerable charm and character.
Situated centrally in the city, near the theatre and the Grote Dobbe, this church has been a fixture since 1785 and is designed in a cruciform shape.
The clock tower atop the structure features a circular design, housing a clock mechanism crafted by the esteemed clockmaker Harmannus Brouckman from Leiden.
The interior of the church boasts numerous glass windows which create an abundance of light, producing captivating shadows and contrasts on the wooden pulpit, organ, and seating.
14. Burggolf Zoetermeer
For avid golfers and those wishing to experience the sport, the Zoetermeer golf course serves as an exceptional venue.
This delightful course is located next to Westerpark and above Balijbos Park—an excellent arrangement for families, allowing you to enjoy a round of golf while your loved ones embark on their own adventures. A well-respected course in the South Holland region, it features diverse and challenging holes and surprises await at the 12th hole, where a substantial hill divides the course.
In addition to the course, there is an academy offering private lessons, as well as a charming clubhouse and restaurant.
15. Nelson Mandela Bridge
Few would suspect that a simple bridge could possess such aesthetic appeal and intrigue. This particular bridge, named after the renowned South African politician and activist Nelson Mandela, spans the busy A12 road in the southern area of Zoetermeer.
Originally constructed as an extension for the Floriade Horticulture Exhibition in 1992, the striking blue and yellow design was brought to life by architect J. Bak.
Take the time to admire the architecture of this bridge, characterized by its vivid colors and unique shapes, and consider ascending the escalators located at each end for an elevated perspective.
