Description
Ah, De Kom van Weesp – one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems that us locals absolutely adore! As someone who’s called Amsterdam home for years, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the city center to enjoy this peaceful oasis. Located in the charming town of Weesp, just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam, De Kom is a picturesque lake that’s perfect for a relaxing day trip.
Picture this: a serene body of water surrounded by lush greenery, historic buildings, and those iconic Dutch windmills. It’s like stepping into a postcard! The lake itself is part of the old fortifications that once protected Weesp, and you can still see remnants of its defensive past scattered around the area.
But don’t let the tranquil atmosphere fool you – there’s plenty to do here! Whether you’re into leisurely strolls, water activities, or simply soaking up the authentic Dutch atmosphere, De Kom van Weesp has got you covered. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like watching the sunset over the water while enjoying a local beer or some traditional Dutch snacks. It’s moments like these that make me fall in love with this country all over again!
Key Features
Now, let’s dive into what makes De Kom van Weesp so special. Trust me, there’s more to this place than meets the eye!
- Scenic Walking Paths: The lake is surrounded by beautiful walking paths that offer stunning views of the water and the town. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a morning jog if you’re feeling energetic.
- Historic Windmills: You can’t miss the three windmills that dot the landscape around De Kom. They’re not just for show – one of them, Molen De Vriendschap, is still operational! If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, you might even get to see it in action and buy some freshly ground flour.
- Water Activities: In the warmer months, De Kom becomes a hub of activity. You can rent a boat, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or even go for a swim if you’re brave enough (the water can be a bit chilly, even in summer!).
- Picnic Spots: There are plenty of grassy areas around the lake that are perfect for picnicking. I often grab some local cheese, bread, and maybe a Weesper Mop cookie (a local specialty) from the town center and enjoy a lazy afternoon by the water.
- Fishing: For the anglers out there, De Kom is a popular spot for fishing. Just make sure you have the proper permits before casting your line!
- Bird Watching: The lake attracts a variety of waterfowl and other birds. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Ice Skating: In the winter, if we’re lucky enough to get a good freeze, De Kom transforms into a natural ice rink. There’s nothing quite like gliding across the frozen lake with the historic town as your backdrop.
One of my favorite things about De Kom is how it changes with the seasons. In spring, the surrounding trees burst into bloom, creating a colorful backdrop. Summer brings out the boats and sunbathers. Autumn paints the landscape in warm hues, perfect for photography. And winter… well, let’s just say there’s something magical about seeing the lake dusted with snow.
Best Time to Visit
Now, you might be wondering when’s the best time to visit De Kom van Weesp. The truth is, each season has its own charm, but if I had to pick, I’d say late spring to early autumn is when this place really shines.
May to September offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 15¬∞C to 25¬∞C (59¬∞F to 77¬∞F), perfect for strolling around the lake or enjoying a picnic. Plus, this is when you’ll see De Kom at its liveliest, with locals and visitors alike making the most of the sunshine.
If you’re visiting in April or May, you might catch the tail end of tulip season. While Weesp isn’t known for its tulip fields like some other parts of the Netherlands, you’ll still see plenty of colorful blooms in the gardens around the lake.
Summer weekends can get busy, especially if the weather’s good. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday or early in the morning. There’s something special about watching the mist rise off the lake as the town wakes up.
That said, don’t write off the cooler months entirely. October can be beautiful, with the changing leaves reflecting in the water. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during a cold snap in winter, you might get to experience the quintessentially Dutch activity of ice skating on the frozen lake. Just be sure to bundle up!
One thing to keep in mind – we Dutch have a saying: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” Our weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to bring layers and maybe a small umbrella, just in case.
Oh, and if you’re planning your visit around a Tuesday, make sure to check out the local market in the Nieuwstraat. It’s a great place to pick up some local treats for a lakeside picnic!
How to Get There
Getting to De Kom van Weesp is a breeze, and half the fun is in the journey! As a local, I’ve made this trip countless times, and I never get tired of it. Here’s how you can reach this little slice of Dutch paradise:
By Train: This is probably the easiest and most scenic option. Trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Weesp, and the journey takes only about 15 minutes. From Weesp station, it’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to De Kom. Just follow the signs or ask a friendly local – we’re always happy to help!
By Bike: If you’re feeling adventurous (and very Dutch), why not cycle? The route from Amsterdam to Weesp is about 15 kilometers and takes you through some beautiful countryside. It’s mostly flat (as is most of the Netherlands), but do watch out for the wind – it can turn a leisurely ride into quite the workout!
By Car: If you have access to a car, it’s an easy drive from Amsterdam. Just head east on the A1 motorway and take the exit for Weesp. It’s about a 20-minute drive, depending on traffic. Parking in Weesp is generally easier than in Amsterdam, but do check the signs for any restrictions.
By Bus: There are also buses that run from Amsterdam to Weesp, but honestly, the train is usually quicker and more reliable.
Once you’re in Weesp, finding De Kom is straightforward. The town is small and walkable, with plenty of signs pointing towards the lake. If in doubt, just head towards the windmills – you can’t miss them!
A word of advice: if you’re coming from Amsterdam, consider making a day of it. Weesp itself is a charming little town with plenty to explore. Before or after your visit to De Kom, take some time to wander the historic streets, try a Weesper Mop cookie (trust me on this one), or visit the local brewery housed in an old church.
And here’s a little insider tip: if you’re visiting in summer and fancy a unique way to see De Kom, check out the boat tours on “The Vuurlinie”. It’s a special boat built by local volunteers, and it offers a fantastic perspective on the lake and the surrounding area.
So there you have it – your guide to De Kom van Weesp, one of Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city, a taste of authentic Dutch life, or just a beautiful spot to while away an afternoon, De Kom has got you covered. As we say in Dutch, “Geniet ervan!” (Enjoy it!)