Top 20 Lakes around S-Gravenhage
Lakes around S-Gravenhage, also known as The Hague, offer diverse natural and recreational experiences. The city, known for its cultural significance and proximity to the coast, provides access to both urban water features and expansive nature reserves. These areas feature a mix of historic ponds, recreational lakes, and dune lakes, catering to various outdoor activities. The landscape combines urban settings with green spaces, making it a versatile region for exploring lakes.
Best lakes around S-Gravenhage
- The most popular lakes is…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Meijendel Dune Lakes
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Meijendel Dunes and Dune Lakes
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Broekpolder Nature and Recreation Area
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Staelduinse Forest
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Bentwoud Nature Reserve
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Popular around S-Gravenhage
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Tips from the Community
I'm enjoying browsing through your photos over coffee, but I really need to go for a walk here again soon. Especially now that summer is over and it's much quieter. It's a wonderful area, worth visiting more than once!
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You are allowed to take your dog with you, as long as it is leashed. There are two hills with semi-natural stairs that are pretty steep.
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The Berkheide and Meijendel dune areas are home to an enormous diversity of plant and animal species due to the varied vegetation, moisture content, and lime content. This includes rare plants and herbs, as many as 250 bird species, a huge variety of insects, and even the sand lizard and the natterjack toad.
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The Broekpolder was once a peat meadow polder with a number of dairy farmers. The word 'broek' (brouck) refers to the original peat bog at this location. Vlaardingen was a growing city in the 1950s and there were plans to make housing possible in the Broekpolder. To achieve this, the area first had to be raised. This was done between 1958 and 1976 with dredged material. Later, this soil layer turned out to be too polluted to be able to realize a residential area here. Housing construction was therefore off the table. The area was then given a green design. It was partly planted with production forest and for another part nature did its own work. The polder was thus given a new life as a nature and recreation area.
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The Broekpolder is a beautiful 400 ha. large and green nature and recreation area. You can walk, cycle, mountain bike, skate, play and do sports here. Close to the city of Vlaardingen and surrounded by the water of the Vlaardingse Vaart and the Vlieten, it is a very valuable green spot for residents in the region. The Broekpolder offers a diverse landscape of polder, forest and large lakes where many water birds live and winter. The Broekpolder is also the habitat of a large herd of Scottish Highlanders. In addition, there are more than 30 sports clubs for young and old. The four Vlaardingen scouting groups have also been given a new joint home in the Broekpolder. Source: https://www.broekpolder-vlaardingen.nl/over-ons
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One of the few "forests" near Rotterdam. This route is designed so that as much as possible can be walked on footpaths. There is only one steep climb.
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Nice piece of forest for both walking and cycling
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It is a beautiful walking area, but of course on a Sunday with nice weather, very busy with families and children. Not bad in itself, but if you are looking for silence, you better go on a weekday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around S-Gravenhage?
S-Gravenhage offers a diverse range of lakes, including historic urban ponds, recreational lakes for swimming and watersports, and serene dune and forest lakes within nature reserves. You'll find a mix of urban settings and green spaces, catering to various outdoor activities.
Are there lakes suitable for swimming near The Hague?
Yes, several lakes near The Hague are excellent for swimming. Plassen Madestein within The Hague offers fresh water and small beaches. Just outside the city, Dobbeplas is popular for its clear water and sandy bottom, while Vlietland and Valkenburgse Meer also provide opportunities for swimming and other water activities.
Which lakes are best for nature lovers and wildlife spotting?
For nature enthusiasts, the Meijendel Dune Lakes, located within the Meijendel nature reserve, are ideal. This area is known for its diverse plant and animal species, varied vegetation, and unique dune environment. Similarly, Bentwoud Nature Reserve, with its young forest, lake, river, and wetlands, is home to many special birds, butterflies, and plants.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities for children?
Absolutely. Dobbeplas is a great choice for families, featuring a gentle slope into the water, ample sandy areas for building sandcastles, and a water playground on the beach. Plassen Madestein also offers sunbathing spots and sports areas, along with a farm and lunchroom, making it perfect for a family day out.
Where can I find historical sites or cultural attractions near lakes in S-Gravenhage?
The Hofvijver, located in the heart of The Hague, is a small, historic lake bordered by significant landmarks such as the Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament) and the Mauritshuis museum. It offers iconic views and is a central point for experiencing the city's rich history and architecture. Additionally, Staelduinse Forest includes historical sites alongside its natural beauty.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near these lakes?
Many lakes around S-Gravenhage are surrounded by excellent routes for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails in areas like Meijendel Nature Reserve. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the North Sea Cycle Route passing through the dune areas. You can find more options for running, gravel biking, and hiking on the running trails and gravel biking guides for S-Gravenhage.
Are there lakes with amenities like restaurants or cafes nearby?
Yes, several lakes offer convenient amenities. Dobbeplas has a restaurant called De Vang with a patio, perfect for a meal or drinks. Valkenburgse Meer features Brasserie Buitenhuis, where visitors can enjoy refreshments with lake views. Plassen Madestein also has a farm with a lunchroom, 'Pluk!'.
Which lakes are good for watersports like boating or windsurfing?
Vlietland is well-known for its wide range of watersports activities, including boat rentals, making it a great place for an active day out. Valkenburgse Meer also provides opportunities for windsurfing in addition to swimming.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around S-Gravenhage?
Visitors particularly appreciate the varied natural landscapes, from dense forests and wetlands to unique dune environments. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for walks, the opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the family-friendly amenities. The combination of natural beauty and recreational options, often close to urban centers, is highly valued by the community.
Can I find quiet spots for tranquil walks around the lakes?
For quiet walks, areas within nature reserves like Meijendel Nature Reserve offer serene paths, especially during weekdays. While popular, the vastness of places like Bentwoud Nature Reserve allows for peaceful strolls through its extensive network of paths.
Are there any lakes that are easily accessible by public transport from The Hague?
Yes, Plassen Madestein is easily accessible by bus or bicycle from The Hague. Many other lakes in the vicinity can also be reached via a combination of public transport and a short walk or cycle.
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