Best attractions and places to see around Zoetermeerse Plas include a diverse range of natural features and recreational opportunities. This area, often associated with the larger Noord Aa recreational zone, centers around a deep sand-extraction lake. It offers various water-based activities, walking and cycling trails, and designated swimming beaches. The region is characterized by its blend of natural landscapes and functional infrastructure, providing a varied environment for exploration.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Highlight • Monument
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Highlight • Lake
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Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Highlight • Natural
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Highlight • Bridge
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On this special bridge you are standing exactly at the three-country point of Stompwijk (Leidschendam), Zoeterwoude and Zoetermeer. The bridge was carefully designed and transported to its place over the water, an impressive piece of craftsmanship. From here you have a beautiful view over the polder landscape.
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https://degroeneontmoeting.nl/polderpad/zoeterdam/ Information from De Groene Ontmoeting.
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Pumping station De Nieuwe Polder. The level of the ditches is 5.70 metres below NAP and all rainwater must be pumped away towards the Oude Rijn in the north and the Rotte in the east. In the past, dozens of mills did this work, now a number of electric pumping stations. Sometimes this is still done from an old building, such as the Pumping station De Nieuwe Polder, which pumps the water from the Zoetermeerse Plas to the Noord Aa. Source: Historical Society Zoetermeer.
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You can skate around it, the path is not very smooth, but quite doable.
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The Zoetermeerse Plas was dug for sand extraction for the construction of 3 residential areas. The water has a depth of 25 to locally 30 meters and it can therefore suddenly become very cold at the surface due to currents. On the north side, the swimming beaches are therefore also demarcated to where the water is shallow.
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Plenty of action in and around the lake
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Beautiful bridge over the ring canal, which also forms the border between the three municipalities.
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The swamp forest, Prielenbos, has developed spontaneously and nature goes its own way here. Due to the large variation in vegetation this area attracts a wide variety of breeding birds. Despite the swampy environment, you can enjoy walking in some places in the Prielenbos. The boardwalk ensures that you don't get wet feet.
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The Zoetermeerse Plas area is rich in natural features. You can explore the deep sand-extraction lake itself, which offers designated swimming beaches on its north side. The Boardwalk Prielenbos allows you to walk through a unique swamp forest, observing diverse vegetation and breeding birds. Additionally, the Benthuizerplas is a nature reserve within the broader recreational area, and the Broekwegwetering extends into the city.
Yes, the area features notable man-made landmarks. The Geerpolder Pumping Station, also known as De Nieuwe Polder, is a historical monument crucial for managing water levels. You can also visit the Driegemeenten Bridge Zoeterdam, a uniquely designed bridge marking the point where three municipalities meet, offering scenic polder views.
The Zoetermeerse Plas area is ideal for various outdoor activities. You'll find numerous trails for walking, cycling, and rollerblading around the lake. Water sports are popular, with facilities for sailing, surfing, canoeing, and boating. There's even an underwater park for divers. For more structured routes, you can find many options for hiking and running in the vicinity.
Absolutely. The Zoetermeerse Plas is very family-friendly. The designated swimming beaches on the north side have shallow, child-friendly areas. The Boardwalk Prielenbos offers an accessible and engaging walk through a swamp forest. Many of the walking and cycling trails are suitable for families, and barbecue areas are available for outdoor meals.
Zoetermeerse Plas is a hub for water sports. On the 'Het Lange Land' peninsula, you'll find a marina, a sailing school, and a surf school. There are also facilities for canoeing and boating, with three trailer ramps around the lake. For a unique experience, an underwater park with submerged objects is available for divers.
Yes, the area offers extensive walking and hiking opportunities. The grounds around Zoetermeerse Plas feature numerous trails, including circular routes. The Boardwalk Prielenbos provides a unique walk through a swamp forest. You can explore a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate, with options like the 'View of the Zoetermeerse Plas – Ringvaart loop'.
The Zoetermeerse Plas is enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming, sunbathing on the beaches, and water sports. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking, cycling, and exploring the natural areas. The annual Rastaplasfestival and Dutch Dragons Dragon Boat Races are held during warmer months, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
While specific regulations for dogs on all trails vary, the Zoetermeerse Plas area generally offers dog-friendly paths for walks. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like Benthuizerplas, and to be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Please check local signage for any specific restrictions in certain areas or on beaches.
Yes, you'll find several dining options around the Zoetermeerse Plas. There are two restaurants on the north side of the lake, a Japanese restaurant on the 'Het Lange Land' peninsula, and a distinctive restaurant in the southwest corner built from stacked wooden poles. These offer convenient spots to relax and refuel after exploring.
The Driegemeenten Bridge Zoeterdam is a uniquely designed bridge that marks the 'three-country point' where the municipalities of Stompwijk, Zoeterwoude, and Zoetermeer converge. It's significant not only for its architectural design but also for the picturesque views it offers over the surrounding polder landscape, making it a popular viewpoint.
The Moerasparel Broekwegkade is a 'marsh pearl' habitat constructed by the municipality of Zoetermeer. These areas are designed to foster special plant species, which in turn attract diverse animal life such as reed birds, butterflies, and amphibians. The water plants in these marsh pearls also help purify water from the Zoetermeerse Plas, aiding in the prevention of blue-green algae.


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