The Big Five of the Veluwe
November 14, 2023
- Things to do Netherlands
Naomi van Hagen
Content
What to do in Westland? Westland is perhaps one of the most surprising regions of South Holland. Between beach and greenhouses, you'll discover a unique mix of nature, hotspots and local attractions. You can settle down at cozy beach bars in 's-Gravenzande and Monster, bike or e-chop along the greenhouses, and of course sample the fresh local produce for which Westland is known. From a day at the beach to discovering hidden gems in the villages: in this article we share the best tips for Westland. So you know exactly where to go for the most beautiful sights and the best things to do in Westland!
Between beach and greenhouses: that's how versatile Westland is
Westland is known as The Glass City thanks to the many greenhouses that dominate the landscape. Here, flowers, plants, vegetables and fruits are grown that go all over the world, but the nice thing is that you can discover them yourself directly at the growers. Combine that with miles of beaches, vast dunes and cozy villages like 's-Gravenzande, Naaldwijk and Monster, and you get why the Westland is a surprisingly versatile destination. It is a place where you cycle among the greenhouses in the morning, plop down at a beach tent in the afternoon and end the day with a local regional product in your bag. Westland is guaranteed to surprise you with a mix of tranquility, space and liveliness.
What to do in Westland: our personal tips
Are you curious about what you can do in Westland? This region is bursting with surprising activities. You can tour the greenhouses and villages on an e-chopper, take a ride in a classic 2CV for that ultimate vacation feeling and get a breath of fresh air at the Zandmotor, a special nature reserve between Kijkduin and Ter Heijde. These are our personal tips!
For more inspiration and tips on what to do in Westland, you can also take a look at the website of Visit Westland.
1. Touring through dunes, villages and greenhouses on an e-chopper
Nothing beats the feeling of the wind in your hair as you ride along quiet roads between greenhouses, along winding ditches and through picturesque villages. Hop on a quiet, eco-friendly e-choppers and take an unforgettable ride through the green heart of the region. The electric scooters are not only cool and sustainable, but also have a hefty fun factor.
During the tour, you'll ride past vast meadows, through restful dunes and winding ditches, with the occasional cozy village around you where you can take a break.
You can rent e-choppers from De Zweth recreatie, including explanations and tips for a nice route through the area. The tours include a nice start with coffee or tea and freshly baked Dutch apple pie, so you will be well rested on the road.
2. Getting a breath of fresh air on the Zandmotor
For a breath of fresh air and endless vistas, head to the Zandmotor, a special nature reserve on the coast between Kijkduin and Ter Heijde.
What makes this place extra special is that it is an artificial peninsula: in 2011, 21 million cubic meters of sand was pumped here to strengthen the coast while creating new nature. Currents and wind slowly spread the sand along the coast, constantly changing the landscape. A living experiment of man and nature.
You can take a lovely walk while overlooking the sea. Children here have plenty of room to run, build sandcastles and play in the natural dune landscape. Birds and other animals are easy to spot, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers as well. Want to learn more about the Zandmotor during your visit to Westland? Then having a guided walk with Natural Westland (KNNV) is a great idea!
3. Powerkiting and disc golf on the beach
For those who like wind, sun and a little adventure, the beaches of Westland are a real playground. After all, you can do all kinds of fun activities here.
One of them, without a doubt, is powerkiting. Put your heels in the sand, hold your kite firmly and feel it being pulled meters into the air. It is a spectacular muscular battle with the wind, sometimes even "lifting" you a few meters off the beach. With modern powerkites and brief instruction from a professional, it is safe and incredibly cool to do.
Would you rather do something quieter, but still active? Then try disc golf on one of the beaches in Westland. This sport combines the fun of frisbeeing with the strategy of golf: throw your frisbee into the basket with as few throws as possible while walking along the beach. It is a relaxing way to enjoy being outdoors while taking in the waves and fresh sea air.
You can powerkite and disc golf under the guidance of Wato Events on beaches such as Monster, 's-Gravenzande and Ter Heijde.
4. Touring through Westland in a classic 2CV
Would you like to discover the Westland in a nostalgic and surprising way? Rent a classic 2CV! The recognizable crazy sound, the unique suspension and the character of the car will take you right back in time. No rush, but slow touring through beautiful landscapes, from greenhouses and polders to dunes and forests.
You can choose to take a special puzzle tour. During the photo puzzle tour you will look for answers to questions hidden in fifteen photos of places and objects along the route. Regularly you will have to get out of your car to find the right answers, allowing you to really get to know the Westland region. For the real thinkers there is the 'Kraak de Schatkaart' route: a challenge full of puzzles, treasure hunts and cryptic clues. Only by working well together and following the route will you find the key to the treasure.
A trip in the 2CV is an original way to experience the region. You can rent them at Eenden Tours Westland.
5. Discover the secrets of the Glass City by bike
Cycling, visiting a greenhouse and collecting your own fruits and vegetables in the meantime: with Bakkie Fietsen you'll experience Westland at its purest. As you cycle a scenic route through the Glass City, you step inside several horticultural companies along the way. Here you will discover how tomatoes are pollinated by bumblebees, you will learn about the rich grape history and see up close how innovative the Westland horticulture is.
At the front of your bike is a wooden crate: your "bakkie". Along the way, you fill it with the freshest local produce: juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, shiny eggplants, and tender lettuce. By the end of the day you cycle home with a crate full of vegetables, a head full of new impressions, and a smile on your face. It’s a sporty and tasty way to discover the secrets of Westland together with friends or family.
Innovation and taste at Koppert Cress
Westland is known not only for its greenhouses and local produce, but also for innovative horticultural companies that inspire the culinary world. Koppert Cress is a great example of this. This is all about natural, aromatic plants that chefs worldwide use to take flavor, aroma and presentation to the next level. The young cresses are fresher and more intensely flavorful than mature plants, making them a unique addition to dishes.
Although the company normally opens its doors primarily to large groups, chefs and special events, it is an inspiring example of how innovative Westland horticulture can be. During a visit to Koppert Cress, you get an idea of the creativity and precision it takes to turn small plants into such tasty top products. The Cressperience, as the company calls it, is a sensory experience in which all aspects of cress production come to life: from demonstration kitchens to taste tastings.
Planning a visit yourself is not a standard option for tourists, but it is certainly worth knowing that such extraordinary, progressive businesses are part of the Westland. It highlights how versatile this region is: from beaches and stalls to innovative culinary pioneers.
Fun hotspots in Westland: the best beach clubs
What's a day in Westland without a nice place to plop down at the beach? Luckily, the region has a few lovely beach bars where you can get a breath of fresh air, have a drink and enjoy the sun and sea.
At Elements Beach at Slag Vlugtenburg in 's-Gravenzande, the relaxed vibe greets you straight away. It’s all about that ultimate feeling of freedom: sink into a comfy lounge chair, order a refreshing drink or a summery cocktail, and let your gaze follow the rolling waves. The menu offers plenty of choice too, from healthy bowls to tasty bites to share.
Those who love a lively beach vibe should also visit Makani Beach in Ter Heijde. Here, a relaxing beach day flows seamlessly into a cheerful evening. Lounge in the sun or warm up by the fire, while enjoying delicious bites, craft beers and refreshing cocktails. There’s nothing quite like ending your day in Westland with your feet in the sand, a drink in your hand and the sun setting over the North Sea.
More fun tips for the region
Do you still have time (and appetite) left after all these tips? Then it is also super fun to further explore the region through the small stalls and farm stores. Here you get the tastiest fresh produce and colorful flowers straight from the grower. Discover our tips for the best stalls and farm stores in Westland and make your day out complete.
Fancy even more sea and beach? Combine your visit with a trip to the neighbors: discover our tips for what to do in Hoek van Holland and find a nice spot at one of the nicest beach bars in Hoek van Holland for a relaxing day.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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