Westerpark

Situated in the vibrant city of Zoetermeer in the South Holland province, Westerpark is a sprawling natural oasis that offers a serene escape from urban life. This 150-hectare park, developed in the early 1970s alongside the residential area of Meerzicht, was initially intended to be a city park. However, to reduce maintenance costs, it was designed with low-maintenance trees and shrubs, transforming it into a more natural landscape rather than a meticulously manicured urban park. The park's creation, which cost around 24 million guilders, has resulted in a diverse and dynamic environment that invites visitors to explore its many unique areas.

Discover the Diverse Landscapes of Westerpark

Westerpark is divided into several distinct sections, each with its own character and charm. The park features wooded areas, flower meadows, lakes, a nature garden, and sports fields. The landscape design incorporates elements of the original polder layout, which can be seen in the arrangement of the groves and watercourses. The southern and western hills provide a natural barrier against the noise from the nearby A12 highway, creating a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Activities for Every Interest

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a sports lover, or simply looking for a place to relax, Westerpark has something for everyone. The park boasts three cycling and walking routes, a fitness trail, and a bridle path for horseback riding. The numerous water bodies within the park are perfect for activities such as fishing, pedal boating, rowing, and canoeing. For those seeking a bit of fun, the park also houses a bowling center where visitors can rent rowboats, pedal boats, and whisper boats.

A Playground with a Historical Twist

Adjacent to the bowling center is a large playground that requires a small fee for entry. This playground features a pirate fort built atop a German bunker from World War II, which was part of the Atlantic Wall. This unique combination of play and history provides an exciting experience for children and adults alike.

Golfing Amidst Nature

Golf enthusiasts will find joy at BurgGolf, located at the end of Heuvelweg within Westerpark. This facility offers an 18-hole golf course and a 3-hole practice course. The well-maintained greens and fairways provide a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

The Enchanting Nature Garden

One of the highlights of Westerpark is the Nature Garden, situated on one of the park's islands. Spanning approximately 1.5 hectares, this garden was designed to showcase the traditional landscapes and ecosystems of Zoetermeer. It features summer and winter grain fields, an orchard, a reed and bulrush marsh, flower-rich hay meadows, ditches, hedgerows, a fallow corner, and a willow coppice. The garden was created by the municipality of Zoetermeer in collaboration with local residents from Meerzicht, drawing inspiration from the heemtuin concept of Jac. P. Thijsse.

A Living Laboratory

Initially managed as a wild plant garden in the 1970s, the Nature Garden has since evolved into a natural garden where nature can develop within the framework of natural management. This transformation has turned the garden into a living laboratory for natural green management. Many plant species introduced to the garden have since spread to other parts of Westerpark and Zoetermeer. Over the years, numerous animals from the surrounding area have also made the garden their home. The Nature Garden is largely maintained by volunteers who carry out tasks such as pollarding, pruning, mowing, and weeding.

Sports and Recreation

Westerpark's sports fields, located near the A12, offer ample space for various activities, including archery and football. These facilities provide a great opportunity for visitors to engage in physical activities while enjoying the park's natural beauty.

Accessibility and Amenities

Westerpark is designed to be accessible to all visitors, with separate routes for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The park has limited car access, with small parking areas that can accommodate up to thirty cars each. This thoughtful planning ensures that the park remains a tranquil haven for everyone to enjoy.

In conclusion, Westerpark in Zoetermeer is a multifaceted natural park that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Its diverse landscapes, historical elements, and recreational facilities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature, engage in sports, or simply unwind in a beautiful setting.