Discover nature: Top spots

Want to enjoy the tranquility of nature and see some wildlife? Here a selection of the top spots in The Hague to do so:

Palace garden

The Paleistuin (Palace garden), which belongs to the Noordeinde Palace, dates from approximately 1609. Part of the garden is open to the public. The garden has an attractive pond, walking paths, benches and valuable old trees and lawns, which are used as play and sunbathing areas. Rest your body and soul in the garden after a hectic day of shopping in the city.

Meer en Bos

Centuries ago this was a forested area with the Segmeer, a lake well stocked with fish. The area was purchased in 1600 by a fisherman who developed the lake. Later a country estate was established with ornate gardens. Nowadays only an old farm and garden wall remain.

The area features a zandwal (an ancient desert dune), dry ditches, old paths and a 16th/17th century farm. Meer en Bos is ideal for both short and long walks. Cycling is not permitted. The Meerwoning restaurant is a nice place to relax after a walk.

The Uithof

The Uithof represents a surprising transition between city and country. Together with the Madestein recreational park it forms a green buffer between the city and the greenhouse area of Westland.

The Uithof features woods, reed land and water, pastures, meadows, and a green zone with homes and recreational facilities. The nature in the Uithof is lush with some 355 species of plants, such as the giant horsetail, sedge grass and marsh lousewort. Besides walking or cycling you can also enjoy yourself in the tennis complex and on the ice rink or in the climbing hall. The area also offers a canoe centre and riding stables.

Acoustic landscape

A noise barrier along Leidschenveen delineates an area sown with flowering herbs. Young people can skateboard as well as play basketball, football and tennis here. There are also four slides. Take a stroll through the rose garden, the orchard and the perennial garden. The area is encircled by a fishing pond and with walkways that are handicapped accessible.

More information about The Hague's parks and country estates can be found on the Dutch-language municipal website: Parken en landgoederen.