Temperatures are at an all-time high and that can only mean one thing: time to find somewhere to cool down! And what better place to do that than in the beauty of nature? Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a dip in the nicest natural water that the Utrecht area has to offer. Where do you like to go for a swim?
Haarrijnse plas (Vleuten)
After a nice bike ride of about 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at the Haarrijnse Plas. Here you’ll nearly feel like you’re at an actual beach! Swimming is possible in the allotted area and there’s not an entrance fee. The perfect spot to spend a summer’s day. Also nice: enjoy the sunset from the terrace at Key West Beachhouse while enjoying a nice drink.
Plas Laagraven (Nieuwegein)
Have you heard of Down Under yet? The restaurant in Nieuwegein is situated on the shores of Plas Laagraven, where it’s a delight to swim. Don’t fancy a dip? Take a seat on the terrace, order a nice glass of wine and enjoy your view of wakeboarders skidding across the water. Exciting!
Zwembad de Kikker (Groenekan)
In Groenekan you’ll find ‘swimming pool’ de Kikker. Don’t be misled by its name, cause you’ll be swimming in natural water, not a pool. You can buy a week’s pass, but for now there is a waitinglist. So sorry about it, you will have to wait with the rest of us.
Loosdrechtse Plassen (Loosdrecht)
A little bit out of the way, but it’s worth the trip! The best place to swim is De Strook, where boats dock throughout the day to take a little break from exploring the lakes. This isn’t a sandy beach, so to get into the water you’ll have to jump in and climb out!
Henschotermeer (Woudenberg)
The Henschotermeer is about a 20 minute car ride outside of Utrecht city. Did you know the Henschotermeer was named one of the most beautiful pieces of nature in the Netherlands last year? Now you know. In between the high trees (some of them palm trees) you’ll feel like you’re on holiday for a bit. This place is also perfect to combine with a nice hike, because the forest surrounding the lake is a beautiful place to relax.
Maarsseveense plassen (Maarsseveen)
The Maarsseveense plassen are also easy to reach by bike, or even with the bus. The bus will take you there in 30 minutes from the city centre. What is nice about this spot is that it’s surrounded by beautiful nature so you can really escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There’s playground equipment in the water and even a slide, so no need to get bored! End the day with pancakes at De Pannekoekenbakker and it will be a perfect day at the water.
