Spaarnwoude

Spaarnwoude is a large recreation area in Haarlemmermeer created from former farmland, combining forests, lakes, and polder landscapes together. The site features multiple swimming spots, including sandy beach areas and different water bodies for swimming and water activities.

The area was created in the 1960s when landscape architect Jacoba Mulder transformed farmland into a park with extensive forests and water features. This transformation turned working agricultural land into a versatile public recreation space.

The Forts Route spans 6.24 kilometers through Haarlemmermeer, connecting multiple defensive structures that form part of the Amsterdam Defense Line.

The area can be explored easily on foot or by bicycle, with good paths through forests and alongside water bodies. The infrastructure is well developed, with clear signage and various routes for different abilities.

A pyramid-shaped viewing hill called Big Spotters Hill rises from the otherwise flat landscape and is used year-round for training and observation. This unexpected elevation change provides a striking contrast to the flat polder surroundings.