The best family-friendly hikes and walks around De Poel
4.4
(1766)
11,177
hikers
340
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around De Poel are characterized by a serene lake environment, surrounded by diverse natural features. The region features well-maintained paths that traverse primeval marshlands and birch forests, offering glimpses into unique flora and fauna. De Poel is an unpoldered peatland, part of the ecological main structure of North Holland, providing generally flat terrain suitable for leisurely walks.
Best family friendly hiking trails around De Poel
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Groene Hart –…
Last updated: August 22, 2026
4.6
(18)
83
hikers
7.37km
01:52
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
See https://www.laagholland.com/nl/locaties/3799843985/hervormde-kerk-zuiderwoude
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Beautiful church built in 1877, a national monument. See https://www.laagholland.com/nl/locaties/3799843985/hervormde-kerk-zuiderwoude
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The church is open at weekends and you can view an exhibition there
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Popular round for people from the area. Here you can relax.
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come here often, nice village and pleasant people.
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A beautiful view of the historic Monnickendam, where old facades, narrow streets and the characteristic church tower determine the cityscape. From the water or the quays you can enjoy the charm of this former fishing town, where the atmosphere of the Golden Age is still palpable. Ideal for a walk along the harbor and a step back in time.
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Pumping station De Poel was built south of Monnickendam on the lake De Poel. The pumping station drains the Waterlandse boezem. The pumping station and the pumps date from the twenties of the last century and were due for replacement and expansion, and there was also a desire to add a fish passage. For a new pumping station slightly north of the old one, the landscape integration and the recognisability of the building were important. The whole is constructed from stony disks of a wide size that mark the position and the area and also accommodate various functions. The strict horizontal termination of the disks establishes the relationship with the vast environment between land and sea. On the Gouwzee side, a terrace has been constructed on both sides of the cycle path with a view on all sides. On the Poel side, the space between the disks is closed off with a technical room in a glass 'showcase'. The other necessary functions, such as transformer room, toilet and workplace are housed in the concrete disks. Pumping station De Poel was designed in the monumental dike by KBNG architects, taking into account the spatial quality policy of the province in conjunction with the openness of the surrounding landscape. One of the goals of the design is to maintain the open character of the area and to contribute positively to the characteristic landscape. The appearance is robust, as a fortification and made of typical Dutch materials such as brick, glass and concrete.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around De Poel?
De Poel offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 220 easy routes, perfect for families looking for a pleasant outing. In total, there are more than 330 hiking tours in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes around De Poel?
The terrain around De Poel is generally flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for families. You'll find paths winding through scenic lake views, primeval marshlands, and birch forests. The area is known for its accessible walking and cycling paths, suitable for all skill levels.
Are there any notable landmarks or natural features to look out for on these trails?
Absolutely! De Poel itself is a beautiful lake, a remnant of 19th-century peat excavations. You can also explore unique primeval marsh and birch forests. Keep an eye out for the tower of the St. Urbanus Church in Bovenkerk, which is a highlight along some routes. In spring, the Bloesempark (Cherry Blossom Park) to the northwest is a stunning sight with its 400 cherry trees.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in De Poel?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.34 stars from over 1500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene natural beauty, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse landscapes that make it enjoyable for all ages.
Are there circular routes suitable for families around De Poel?
Yes, circular routes are very popular here! A classic family favorite is the 'rondje Poel,' a walk around the lake that can be completed in about 45 minutes. Many other routes also offer circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
De Poel is generally a dog-friendly area, and many paths are suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What is a good easy route for families looking for a shorter hike?
For an easy and relatively short family hike, consider the Hemmeland Recreation Area – View of the Gouwzee loop from Waterland. It's just under 5 km and offers pleasant views, perfect for a relaxed outing with children.
Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments near the trails?
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, the area around De Poel and nearby Amstelveen offers various options for refreshments. You'll find places to grab a bite or a drink before or after your hike, especially in the more developed areas surrounding the lake.
What's the best time of year to visit De Poel for family hiking?
De Poel is beautiful year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring is particularly lovely when the Bloesempark is in bloom and the Oeverlanden burst with wildflowers. Summer provides lush greenery and opportunities for watersports, while autumn brings golden hues to the landscape. Even in winter, if temperatures allow, the frozen lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating.
How can we get to the family-friendly hiking areas around De Poel using public transport?
De Poel is well-connected by public transport. Various bus lines serve Amstelveen, with stops conveniently located near different access points to the lake and its surrounding trails. We recommend checking local public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings to plan your visit.
Where can we park our car when visiting De Poel for a family hike?
There are several parking facilities available around De Poel, particularly near popular access points and attractions in Amstelveen. Look for designated parking areas close to the lake to ensure convenient access to the trails. Some areas might have paid parking, so it's good to be prepared.
Most popular routes around De Poel
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