The best city hikes and walks around Ouderkerkerplas
4.3
(4869)
41,485
hikers
377
hikes
Hiking around Ouderkerkerplas offers diverse landscapes centered around a deep sand extraction lake, characterized by its brackish water and surrounding green spaces. The region features a blend of park-like tranquility, open meadows, and riverine paths, providing varied scenery for urban hiking trails. Ouderkerkerplas is part of the broader Groengebied Amstelland, connecting to extensive green areas and offering opportunities for exploration along rivers and through meadows. This area is also notable for its unique ecosystem, attracting a significant number of waterfowl…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
11
hikers
3.25km
00:49
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
16
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(10)
90
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
3.63km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Tip: take a dip
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The Herengracht is considered the city's most important canal. In the 17th century, the city's wealthiest merchants and most influential rulers and mayors lived here. Even today, an address on the Herengracht is considered prestigious and elegant.
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The National Monument on the Dam is an unmistakable landmark of the square. This striking monument was erected in 1956 as a memorial to the fallen of World War II. Every year on May 4th – Remembrance Day – two minutes of silence are held on the Dam in honor of these victims. Source: https://explorial.com/de/sights/amsterdam-the-dam-de/
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The National Monument is the most important national monument in the Netherlands. It is a memorial to the victims of the German occupation during World War II and a monument to liberation and peace. Located on Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, it consists of a 22-meter-high obelisk and a curved memorial wall, as well as several sculptures bearing the inscription "Never again!" Source: https://www.stadtrundfahrt.com/amsterdam/sehenswuerdigkeiten/nationaal-monument/
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The National Monument stands high in the center of Amsterdam's Dam Square and is the Netherlands' most important World War II memorial. The towering travertine obelisk is 22 meters high and pays tribute to the fallen Dutch soldiers from World War II and subsequent armed conflicts. On May 4, 1956, Queen Juliana (the daughter of Wilhelmina) unveiled a new monument.
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The Damrak is the original estuary of the Amstel River—a straight stretch of water. The river flowed into the IJ from a lock in the Dam. In the 19th century, the canal was filled in, except for the canal boat moorings on the west side, and now serves as a harbor. The gabled houses bordering the water are among the most picturesque in the city. Damrak is also the name of the adjacent street, which resembles a giant flypaper basket and awaits visitors arriving at the central station with cheap tourist hotels, fast-food restaurants, and souvenir shops.
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The Herengracht (German: "Herrengraben") is the innermost of the three canals forming part of the Amsterdam Canal Belt, laid out concentrically around the Old Town of Amsterdam. It lies west and south of the medieval city center; its extension across the Amstel River, the Nieuwe Herengracht (German: "New Herengracht"), extends east of the Old Town. The former medieval city moat, the Singel, runs parallel to the Herengracht canal, while the Keizersgracht canal runs outside. The Herengracht was built in two phases, around 1613 and 1664. Among its most famous monuments are the baroque city palaces built in the Gouden Bocht (German: Golden Arch) by some of Amsterdam's wealthiest families. Construction on the Herengracht canal began in 1612 on the initiative of Mayor Frans Hendricksz. Oetgens, city architect Hendrick Jacobsz. Staets, and city surveyor Lucas Jansz. Sinck.
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A canal tour is a must in Amsterdam :-)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available around Ouderkerkerplas?
There are over 350 urban hiking trails around Ouderkerkerplas, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. You'll find a wide selection, from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes near Ouderkerkerplas?
The urban hikes around Ouderkerkerplas offer diverse terrain. You can expect a blend of park-like tranquility, paths along the brackish lake, and routes that extend into broader green spaces within Groengebied Amstelland, often featuring flat, accessible paths suitable for urban exploration.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or a quick stroll?
Yes, many easy urban hikes are available. For a pleasant, short walk, consider the Mural Ammar Abo Bakr loop from Johan Cruijff ArenA, which is just over 3 kilometers and offers an accessible experience.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest to see on urban hikes in this area?
While hiking around Ouderkerkerplas, you can enjoy views of the picturesque lake itself, which is a deep sand extraction lake with unique brackish water. Keep an eye out for the striking 85-meter-high windmill 'the Amstelvogel' on the edge of the lake. The area is also known for its birdwatching opportunities, with various waterfowl and migratory birds often present.
Are there any longer or more challenging urban routes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more extensive urban hiking experience, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) – Herengracht loop from Amsterdam ArenA offers a challenging route of approximately 26 kilometers, providing a deeper exploration of the urban landscape.
Can I find circular urban hiking routes around Ouderkerkerplas?
Absolutely. Many of the urban trails around Ouderkerkerplas are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Hiking loop from Johan Cruijff ArenA, which provides a convenient circular option.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Ouderkerkerplas?
The urban hiking routes around Ouderkerkerplas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 4,300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse scenery blending urban elements with natural beauty, and the excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially around the lake.
Are the urban hiking trails around Ouderkerkerplas suitable for families?
Yes, many urban trails in the Ouderkerkerplas area are family-friendly, particularly the easier, flatter routes. The recreational area also features amenities like beaches and a playground, making it a great destination for a day out with children. Consider routes like The Sand Castle – Abstract Sculpture loop from Johan Cruijff ArenA for a manageable family walk.
Is Ouderkerkerplas a good spot for birdwatching during an urban hike?
Ouderkerkerplas is an excellent spot for birdwatching. The brackish lake rarely freezes, attracting a significant number of waterfowl, especially in winter. During migratory seasons, you can observe various wading birds and ducks. There are even birdwatching huts and a sand martin wall on the south side, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
Are there any urban hikes that offer a mix of city sights and natural elements?
Many routes in the area perfectly blend urban and natural elements. For instance, the Cruijff's childhood home – Eetcafé De Avonden loop from Amsterdam ArenA takes you through urban areas while still connecting to the green surroundings, offering a varied experience.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking around Ouderkerkerplas?
Ouderkerkerplas is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for walking, while autumn brings beautiful colors. Winter is particularly special for birdwatching, as the lake attracts many waterfowl due to its brackish nature preventing it from freezing easily. The flat terrain makes it accessible in most weather conditions.
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