Discover the largest artificial forest in the Netherlands, a sprawling green oasis three times the size of Central Park with lakes, cycling paths, and outdoor activities.
Amsterdamse Bos
The Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is the largest artificial forest in the Netherlands, spanning approximately 1,000 hectares - about three times the size of New York's Central Park. Located just outside Amsterdam in Amstelveen, this vast green oasis offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from cycling and walking to swimming, rowing, and simply enjoying nature.
About the Forest
History
Origins:
- Created between 1914 and 1925
- Designed as a public works project during unemployment
- Originally called "Bosch" (meaning "forest" in Dutch)
- Planting began in 1914
- Official opening in 1925
Purpose:
- Provide employment during WWI
- Create green space for Amsterdam
- Establish recreational area
- Improve air quality
- Flood control
Scale:
- 1,000 hectares total
- 10 million trees planted
- 3x size of Central Park
- Contains several lakes
What Makes It Special
- Massive size - Largest artificial forest in Netherlands
- Varied terrain - Forests, meadows, lakes
- Outdoor activities - Something for everyone
- Close to city - Easy to reach from Amsterdam
- Free access - No admission fee
- Wildlife - Rich biodiversity
Features
Lakes
The Bosbaan:
- Rowing lake
- 2.2 km length
- Olympic dimensions
- Rowing clubs
- Scenic course
Other Lakes:
- Swimming lake (naturist area nearby)
- Small lakes for fishing
- Ponds throughout
Forests
Tree Species:
- Oak
- Beech
- Pine
- Maple
- Many exotic species
Undergrowth:
- Bluebells (spring)
- Ferns
- Wild garlic
- Heather areas
Meadows
Open Areas:
- Large grass fields
- Picnic areas
- Play fields
- Open spaces for games
Trails
Walking Paths:
- Hundreds of kilometers
- Marked routes
- Scenic loops
- Accessible for all
Cycling Paths:
- Extensive network
- Connected to city
- Popular with commuters
- Through traffic allowed
Activities
Cycling
Why Cycle Here:
- Extensive paths
- Beautiful scenery
- Connected to city
- Various difficulty levels
Routes:
- Family routes
- Longer tours
- Scenic loops
- Commuter paths
Bike Rentals:
- Available at edges
- Various types
- Electric bikes
Walking
Options:
- Short strolls
- Long hikes
- Themed walks
- Nature trails
Highlights:
- Lake views
- Forest sections
- Meadow areas
- Wildlife spotting
Water Activities
Rowing:
- Bosbaan lake
- Clubs available
- Equipment rental
- Lessons offered
Swimming:
- Designated areas
- Clean water
- Safety patrols
- Season only
Canoeing/Kayaking:
- Lake paddling
- Rentals available
- Guided tours
Sports
Organized Activities:
- Tennis
- Football
- Hockey
- Golf
- Rugby
Facilities:
- Sports fields
- Courts
- Clubs
- Equipment rental
Picnics
Best Spots:
- Meadow areas
- Near lakes
- Shaded spots
- Designated areas
Tips:
- Bring supplies
- Leave no trace
- Fires not allowed
- Enjoy!
Visitor Information
Getting There
By Bike:
- From Vondelpark: ~20 minutes
- Bike paths all the way
- Great option in good weather
- Rentals available
By Bus:
- From Amsterdam: Lines 199, 347, 357
- From Amstelveen: Various routes
- Frequent service
By Car:
- Parking at main entrances
- Several parking areas
- Free in some areas
- Fees in others
Best Time to Visit
Seasons:
Spring:
- Bluebells (April-May)
- Fresh green leaves
- Bird activity
- Pleasant temperatures
Summer:
- Warmest weather
- Longest days
- Swimming
- Peak usage
Fall:
- Autumn colors
- Mushroom season
- Fewer crowds
- Good photography
Winter:
- Quiet atmosphere
- Bare trees beauty
- Walking trails
- Holiday events
Duration
- Quick visit: 1-2 hours
- Half day: 3-4 hours
- Full day: 5-6+ hours
Services
Restaurants/Cafés
In the Bos:
- Restaurant "Het Bosch"
- Café "De Bosbaan"
- Various kiosks
Nearby:
- Amstelveen options
- Restaurant area
Facilities
What to Find:
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Information points
- First aid
Sports Clubs
Various clubs have facilities:
- Rowing clubs
- Tennis clubs
- Football clubs
- Hockey clubs
- Golf club
Wildlife
Birds
- Herons
- Kingfishers
- Woodpeckers
- Various waterfowl
- Songbirds
Mammals
- Squirrels
- Rabbits
- Deer (occasionally)
- Foxes (rare)
Plants
- Bluebells (famous)
- Wild garlic
- Ferns
- Various mushrooms
Nearby Attractions
Close By
- Amstelveen - City nearby
- Museums - Close to museum quarter
- Shopping - Amstelveen shopping
Practical Information
Location
Between Amsterdam and Amstelveen:
- 10 km from city center
- Easy access
- Multiple entrances
Contact
- Phone: +31 20 626 12 52
- Website: www.amsterdamsebos.nl
Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Free access
The Amsterdamse Bos offers endless possibilities for outdoor recreation in nature, just minutes from the city center. Whether you want active sports, peaceful walks, or family activities, this massive forest has something for everyone.