NETHERLANDS GUIDE

Discover Benelux | Top Places to Visit in the Netherlands in 2019 | The Ultimate Destination
“Nieuwkoop has always been a town of
crafts,” says Pelser. For centuries, it was
where reed cutters spent day after day
taking care of reed fields. Something you
can still witness by taking a boat trip on
the local lakes, where a guide will take you
past reed fields showing the various stages
of reed cutting (you will even be able
to try it yourself). The village also knows a
long history of forging, which is explained
in a small but incredibly charming museum
(Smederijmuseum Nieuwkoop). Located
under two ancient chestnut trees, you will
find an authentic cottage followed by an
original workshop where the rich history of
this beautiful craft comes alive immediately.
Nature
The location is a true gift as well, offering
natural facilities left, right and centre.
“The most amazing thing is that you can
really experience these nature reserves,”
Pelser states. “The Nieuwkoopse Plassen
(a group of man-made shallow lakes), are
fantastic for cycling, hiking and paddling,
with plenty of beautiful routes available for
days of entertainment. A recent trend has
Tulip fields in Nieuwkoop. Photo: Fam Flowerfarm
been stand up paddling (supping), which
is a really fun and active way to explore the
area with a group of friends. Ideal for office
parties too!” Other active ways of exploring
the waters are sailing and canoeing
(both available for rent) and – perhaps our
favourite – a unique GPS escape tour.
Wildlife
The environment is also full of wildlife, perfect
for nature photographers or bird spotters.
The lakes attract otters (which only
happens around very clean water), and are
home to the wonderful purple heron. You
may even be able to spot some deer and
foxes here, if you are lucky. What is more,
the area is known as one of the country’s
best spots for natural ice-skating. “On
those rare occasions that the ice is thick
enough, people from all over the country
come down with their skates. Those are
busy times for the village and it’s always
incredibly cosy,” says Pelser. Another reason
Dutch people love to visit Nieuwkoop
is Liemeer, a scenic nine and 18-hole golf
course which opened in 2007.
Ice skating by the windmills. Photo: VVV Nieuwkoop
Boats on the Nieuwkoopse Plassen.
Photo: Sjanie de Geus
Issue 62 | February 2019 | 43