North Holland Unveiled: 5 Hidden Gems to Discover

The hidden treasures of North Holland are waiting for you! Far from the hustle and bustle of the well-known hotspots, this province reveals a world full of undiscovered places. Think of charming, quiet villages, unspoiled nature, and historic gems that offer a fresh perspective on North Holland. Let yourself be taken to these unique, less-traveled destinations and experience the pure, authentic charm of this region!

Amstelveen, a charming town just south of Amsterdam, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! This green oasis combines the best of both worlds: the peace and space of a friendly municipality with the vibrant energy of the nearby capital.

To fully experience the cozy charm of this city, here are a few must-see highlights:

• Cherry Blossom Park
  Forget Japan – visit the Cherry Blossom Park in March/April, when 400 cherry trees are in full bloom. A fantastic sight to behold. For a tranquil experience, it’s best to visit in the morning.

• Amsteltuin Vineyard
  Ever wanted to dine among the vines? At Amsteltuin Vineyard, you can. After a day of exploring this charming town, end your day with a delicious glass of wine and local treats right in the vineyard.

• Ridammerhoeve Goat Farm
  Amstelveen is also a great choice for families with kids. Are your kids animal lovers? Then a visit to the Ridammerhoeve Goat Farm is a must. Sample local products like cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and buttermilk. You can even take a cheese-making workshop!

Den Helder, the rugged naval city on the North Sea coast, is a surprising destination full of adventure and history! Located at the tip of North Holland, where the fresh sea breeze greets you, this city offers a perfect mix of nature and maritime charm. Den Helder is the place for sea lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys Dutch coziness!

Recommended spots in Den Helder:

• Willemsoord
  Willemsoord is the perfect place for a fun day out. Once a shipyard for the Royal Navy, it now houses several museums like the National Lifeboat Museum and the Naval Museum. Kids can blow off steam at indoor play paradise Ballorig, and there are plenty of trendy eateries to relax in afterwards.

• Donkere Duinen (Dark Dunes)
  Nature lovers will enjoy walking through the Donkere Duinen. Active visitors can hike all the way to the beach. There’s also a fun petting zoo at the start of the trail—great for the whole family. Parking is available at De Helderse Vallei visitor center.

Heerhugowaard, a lively city in the heart of North Holland, is a surprising destination where nature and fun go hand in hand! Once a reclaimed polder landscape, this city is now a vibrant spot with a welcoming atmosphere.

With its central location near Alkmaar and the coast, Heerhugowaard is the perfect base for exploring North Holland. Come by and let this versatile city surprise you!

Highlights of Heerhugowaard:

• Polder Museum Het Oude Gemaal
  Discover the history of the polder at Het Oude Gemaal Museum. Through exhibitions, you’ll learn all about land reclamation and agricultural development in the region.

• Middenwaard Shopping Center
  The largest shopping mall in North Holland is found here in Heerhugowaard. You’ll need plenty of time to explore all the shops. Take a break at one of the many dining spots in between shopping sprees.

• Park van Luna
  Heerhugowaard’s recreation area is the Park van Luna. Perfect for relaxing walks or bike rides. At Luna Beach, you’ll find various water sports activities, and kids can enjoy themselves on the playgrounds.

Discover the enchanting charm of Hoorn, a historic harbor town on the sparkling IJsselmeer! Wander through the atmospheric streets filled with centuries-old warehouses, grand mansions, and cozy squares, and soak in the rich history that surrounds you.
Once a bustling VOC (Dutch East India Company) town, Hoorn still breathes the spirit of the Golden Age. With its mix of culture, charm, and natural beauty, Hoorn is the perfect destination for a day trip or longer stay!

Don’t miss these highlights in Hoorn:

• De Roode Steen
  De Roode Steen is a must-see square. Enjoy one of the many terraces with views of historical buildings and monuments. During festivals or city events, it even hosts a main stage.

• Oostereiland
  Created in the 17th century to expand port capacity, Oostereiland has had various uses over the years. Since 2002, it’s been restored and now features a cinema, the Museum of the 20th Century, a small-scale hotel, a brasserie, various businesses, and 25 residential apartments.

Welcome to Julianadorp, a hidden coastal gem in North Holland where peace, nature, and beach fun come together! This charming seaside village, near Den Helder, is known for its wide sandy beaches and rolling dunes – perfect for long walks and bike rides.

In spring, the surrounding area bursts into a vibrant sea of flowers, thanks to the nearby bulb fields – a spectacular sight! The village itself exudes a cozy atmosphere, with welcoming restaurants and small shops. For adventure seekers, there are plenty of options: from golfing on a nearby course to exploring nature reserves like Het Zwanenwater.

Unmissable spots in Julianadorp:

• Mariëndal Nature Reserve
  Looking to enjoy nature while in Julianadorp? Cycle to Mariëndal Nature Reserve. This wooded area is perfect for a family outing. In the adjoining Helderse Vallei, you can go canoeing or visit the petting zoo. Adventurous types can climb through treetop obstacle courses at 4, 6, or even 8 meters high—or fly through the air on a zip line like Tarzan!

• Hoenderdaell Estate
  Nestled in picturesque Anna Paulowna, about 20 km southeast of Julianadorp, lies Hoenderdaell Estate: a unique blend of nature park and animal sanctuary. Here you’ll encounter animals from around the globe, from Australian wallabies to Chinese leopards. The park also rescues orphaned lions, tigers, and bears, preparing them for reintroduction into the wild. A highlight is the hunt simulator, where meat zooms through a large hall on a pulley system, and big cats chase it at full speed—a breathtaking sight! You can also feed small parrots that land right on your hand for a fun moment.

  
  Outside the zoo, the estate invites visitors for walks through unspoiled nature. Spot Scottish Highland cattle, red deer, and emus roaming freely. Hoenderdaell offers a day full of wonder and adventure for all ages!

North Holland has so much more to offer than meets the eye, and with "North Holland Unveiled: 5 Hidden Gems to Discover," you’ve got the perfect guide to experience it yourself. Ideal for exploring the region from your holiday home. Grab your bag, head out, and be amazed by the hidden charm of North Holland – an adventure you won’t soon forget!