AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE
NEW LANDMODERN ARCHITECTURE MEETS FUTURISTIC URBAN PLANNING, ALL WHILE EMBRACING THE WATER AND NATURE THAT SURROUNDS HOLLAND’S NEW LAND – JUST 30 MINUTES FROM AMSTERDAM.
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De Diagonaal 199, Tel. +31 (0)36 548 50 41, vvvalmere.nl
VVV Almere Tourist Offi ce is located just a 5-minute walk from Almere Centrum railway station.
Thinking about a special day out?
DiscoverAlmere
Modern Architecture 10.30 AM – 2 PM
After a welcome cup of coffee or tea and sweet accompaniment, you and your guide will set off through the centre of Almere. Almere ranks #1 on the list of contemporary architecture in ‘European New Towns’ – your guide will show you these architectonic masterpieces. After the walk, a delicious organic lunch will be waiting for you at Bagels & Beans. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you like: maybe an exciting shopping spree in the city centre or a visit to the new PIT Security Expo.
Price: € 25 per person, minimum 2 persons
The New Wilderness 10.30 AM – 3.30 PM
After a welcome cup of coffee or tea and sweet accompaniment, you will ride an escooter to the Oostvaardersplassen. Discover some of Almere’s unique loca-tions en route while your guide tells you about the city’s modern architecture and remarkable landscape. When you arrive at the Oostvaarders Experience Nature Centre, a full organic lunch will be ser-ved while you enjoy an amazing view of the Oostvaardersplassen. Discover ‘the new wilderness’ in Almere!
Price: € 70 per person, minimum 2 persons
Please book the excursions at least two days in advance.
De Diagonaal 199, Tel. +31 (0)36 548 50 41, vvvalmere.nl
VVV Almere Tourist Offi ce is located just a 5-minute walk from Almere Centrum railway station.
Thinking about a special day out?
DiscoverAlmere
Modern Architecture 10.30 AM – 2 PM
After a welcome cup of coffee or tea and sweet accompaniment, you and your guide will set off through the centre of Almere. Almere ranks #1 on the list of contemporary architecture in ‘European New Towns’ – your guide will show you these architectonic masterpieces. After the walk, a delicious organic lunch will be waiting for you at Bagels & Beans. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you like: maybe an exciting shopping spree in the city centre or a visit to the new PIT Security Expo.
Price: € 25 per person, minimum 2 persons
The New Wilderness 10.30 AM – 3.30 PM
After a welcome cup of coffee or tea and sweet accompaniment, you will ride an escooter to the Oostvaardersplassen. Discover some of Almere’s unique loca-tions en route while your guide tells you about the city’s modern architecture and remarkable landscape. When you arrive at the Oostvaarders Experience Nature Centre, a full organic lunch will be ser-ved while you enjoy an amazing view of the Oostvaardersplassen. Discover ‘the new wilderness’ in Almere!
Price: € 70 per person, minimum 2 persons
Please book the excursions at least two days in advance.
3
P.04 THE HISTORY OF NEW LAND Flevoland, the Netherlands’ youngest province, has a history dating to the Late Stone Age, and is a masterpiece of Dutch hydro-engineering.
P.08 ATTRACTIONS IN LELYSTADWorld-class museums, maritime history and luxury shopping in the heart of nature: Lelystad is a city of exciting contrasts.
P.12 PUBLIC TRANSPORT MAP
P.14 THE ARCHITECTURE OF ALMERE A feast for fans of modern architecture, Almere’s skyline elegantly fuses modern design with elements of nature.
P.18 THE GREAT OUTDOORSUnique nature reserves and an impressive artifi cial lake perfect for water-sports make Flevoland a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
P.22 CITY ESCAPESWithin 30 minutes of Amsterdam city centre, these inspiring city escapes offer a true taste of the Netherlands, old and new.
a number next to an attraction corresponds to the location on the map on pages 12-13.
CONTENTS
published by Amsterdam Marketing editor-in-chief Bart van Oosterhout art direction & basic design Loes Koomen project manager Pauline Saathof designer Sandra Nakken & Zlatka Siljdedic copy editor & writer Megan Roberts cover image Exposure cover photography Jasper Pluim
AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE
NEW LAND
WELCOME TONEW LAND!The Amsterdam Metropolitan Area owes everything to innova-tion, and it is still evolving. For centuries the population has waged a war with water, using dykes, dams, windmills and pumping stations to protect farms and towns. In the 20th century work began on reclaim-ing a large area of land from the former Zuiderzee, creating the province of Flevoland – the world's largest polder – and modern cities like Almere and Lelystad in the process. These New Land locations offer fascinating examples of cutting-edge architecture and creative developments. A popular seaside getaway, and rich in cultural history, is the Big Lake known as the Markermeer. Take to the water for sailing or lounge at a picturesque harbour terrace. The Oostvaardersplas-sen nature reserve, between Lelystad and Almere, comprises 56km2 of protected marshlands and fi elds, and makes for an amazing spot for a hike or a day of bird watching.www.iamsterdam.com/cityescapes
P.21 VISITOR INFORMATION
Transport tips, Visitor Information centres, where to stay, where to eat & more.
NEW LANDMINI e sory f w ld
Flevoland, the Netherlands’ youngest province, has a history dating to the Late Stone Age, and is a masterpiece of Dutch hydro engineering.
THE HISTORY OF NEW LAND
ISLANDS ON DRY LANDThe creation of Flevoland’s north-eastern polder transformed two historical villages of the Zuiderzee – Urk and Schokland – into ‘islands on dry land’. The villagers of Urk retain their unique cultural identity and dialect, and the island mentality remains: the inhabitants insist they live on Urk, not in it. Het Oude Raadhuis Museum tells the village’s story. Still a fi shing village at heart, when the Zuiderzee disappeared, the resourceful fi shermen of Urk simply moved to the North Sea. Schokland, which was a peninsula until around 1450 when the rising water of the Zuiderzee made it an island, is seen all over the world as a symbol of the Dutch fi ght against water. A visit to the Schokland Museum gives an impression of the village’s unique history. National monuments, the prehistoric Stone Garden and important archaeologi-cal fi nds (many now displayed in the museum) saw Schokland added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1995.www.visitfl evoland.nl/urkwww.visitfl evoland.nl/schokland
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Whenever and wherever you walk in Flevoland, you’re walking on the seabed. A system of
dykes protects the area from the surrounding sea level – which is, on average, five metres higher.In the 20th century, work began on reclaiming a large area of land – meas-uring more than 1,800 square kilometres – from the inland Zuiderzee, creating the Netherlands’ twelfth and youngest province, Flevoland, and modern cities like Almere and Lelystad in the process. The idea to drain the Zuiderzee had been raised as far back as the 17th century, but it took modern engineer-ing to complete the project. Today, the area’s remarkable history, a unique nature reserve, modern architecture and cosy beaches make New Land well worth a visit.Before the Zuiderzee was impoldered, it posed a looming and constant threat to the inhabitants of the surrounding area, with thousands of people losing
their lives during storm floods. In 1891, therefore, engineer Cornelis Lely – for whom the province’s capital, Lelystad, is named – became the architect of the biggest land reclamation project of all time. The Zuiderzee project began in 1924, with the 2.5-kilometre Amsteldiep dyke, which connected the mainland of Northern Holland to the island of Wieringen. Next was the Afsluitdijk (‘closure dyke’), which would connect the island of Wieringen to the Frisian mainland. This last seemed an almost impossible enterprise: a dyke in the middle of the sea. But by 1932 Dutch aquatic engineering prowess saw the Afsluitdijk completed. At a snail’s pace, the area was drained. Eventually, the waters receded, and in 1942 the Noordoostpolder was inaugurated, followed by Eastern Flevoland (1957) and Southern Flevoland (1968). This southern part, the Flevopolder, is the largest artificially created island worldwide.
The world’s largest polder
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7MINI NEW LAND
LAND ART FLEVOLANDDuring the creation of the Flevoland polder the engineers and planners decided to mark the momentous occasion with art. They turned to an art form that spoke to their imagination: land art. As a result, a collection of six land art works by world-famous artists such as Robert Morris, Richard Serra and Daniel Libeskind were commissioned. And, unique in the world, these six pieces of land art can be visited in a single day. Discover these hidden gems by yourself (by car) or during an organised bus tour – and take in the amazing history of the creation of the Flevoland polder at the same time. In summer, organised bus tours are available, and the annual Land Art Live programme sees contemporary artists respond to the mammoth art works with temporary interventions. www.schouwburgalmere.nl/landart
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AGORA THEATERLelystad is full of contem-porary architecture. The impressive, colourful Agora Theater has been universally praised for its design, and has two beautiful halls that host performances of various genres all year round www.agora-lelystad.nl
rre & lold
TIPSee Almere’s architecture from an insider’s perspec-tive, with a guided tour – of the town centre or other neighbourhoods. www.vvvalmere.nl
ARCHITECTURE & FLEVOLAND:ARCHITECTURE & FLEVOLAND:Do you like revolutionary architecture Do you like revolutionary architecture and modern urban development? and modern urban development? Then your visit to Flevoland could Then your visit to Flevoland could turn into a real adventure. Some turn into a real adventure. Some city blocks in Lelystad and Almere city blocks in Lelystad and Almere are exhibitions in their own right, are exhibitions in their own right, featuring breathtaking visual featuring breathtaking visual spectacles of architectural bravery.spectacles of architectural bravery.www.visitfl evoland.nl/architecturewww.visitfl evoland.nl/architecture
NEW LANDMINI ros n lsd
BATAVIAWERFIn the ‘Batavia Yard’ shipyard, workers reconstruct ships from the Golden Age that were important to the Netherlands’ maritime history. In April 1995, the Batavia, the most authentic reconstruction of a 17th-century VOC ship ever made, was launched after ten years of construction. A sort of Golden Age Titanic – big, expensive and supposedly unsinkable – the Batavia, fi lled to the brim with cannon and goods for the colonies, crashed into a reef off the shores of western Australia during its maiden voyage in 1629. The Batavia’s crew was then beset by mutiny and murders before another ship arrived to rescue those who had survived all the mayhem. The replica is on show all year round. Work is now underway on the reconstruction of De 7 Provin-ciën, a 17th-century battleship once captained by Michiel de Ruyter. The Batavia Yard is dedicated to the conservation of cultural heritage and traditional crafts, making it a great place to see skills of yesteryear in practice.Oostvaardersdijk 1-9, Lelystad www.bataviawerf.nl
World-class museums, maritime history and luxury shopping in the heart of nature: Lelystad is a city of exciting contrasts.
ATTRACTIONS IN LELYSTAD8
NATIONAL OLD-TIMER DAYLelystad’s annual National Old-timer Day is a free classic car rally, which takes place on the third Sunday in June (which also happens to be Fathers’ Day). The Batavia Boulevard between Batavia Stad and Batavia Harbour will be lined with 400 vintage cars, ready for a wonderful family day out.21 Junewww.visitfl evoland.nl/oldtimer
BATAVIAWERFANNIVERSARYThis year, the Batavia Werf cel-ebrates its 30th birthday. On 4 October 1985 the foundation keel of the Batavia ship was laid, and so throughout Octo-ber (especially on the week-end of 3 and 4) is packed with activities revolving around Michiel de Ruyter, the naval hero of the Dutch Golden Age. Not to be missed!Octoberwww.bataviawerf.nl
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BATAVIAHAVENThe Bataviahaven is a unique, modern, well-equipped port; a port where there is room for exhibitions, events and regattas, but which is also an interesting destination for charter boats, cruise ships and passers-by. In short: a harbour full of space for new initiatives. The harbour offi ce is open from 1 April, 08.00-20.00. This is where you pay your port fees – and of course, you'll also fi nd information about the area and the many tour-ist attractions in Lelystad and the surrounding area.www.bataviahaven.nu
NETHERLANDS INSTITUTEFOR MARITIME ARCHAEOLOGYNext door to Bataviawerf (see page 08), the archaeological ship depot of the Netherlands has more than 30,000 objects from shipwrecks on display. Highlights include a 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck found near Utrecht and a barge that was excavated here in Lelystad. Oostvaardersdijk 01-04, Lelystad www.visitfl evoland.nl/RACM
TIPThe sites of shipwrecks throughout Flevoland are marked by poles topped with a boat. The New Land Museum has a bicycle route map, which takes in all the shipwreck locations (see the wrecks in the area on the map: www.visitfl evoland.nl/shipgraveyard).
SHIP CEMETERYThe former Zuiderzee is one of the largest ‘dry’ ship graveyards in the world. As many as 435 shipwrecks, with an inventory of nearly 33,000 objects, were re-vealed when the polder was drained. Behind these anony-mous numbers are, of course, ex-ceptionally heroic stories, inde-scribably diffi cult moments at sea. Ships, including their cargo, equipment and crew, perished over the course of centuries as a result of overwhelming storms, unexpected shoals, sandbars and congested channels. www.visitfl evoland.nl/graveyard
NEW LAND MUSEUMPresenting a broad outline of the history of Flevoland, from the prehistoric Swifterbant people to the largest reclamation project ever: the Zuiderzee Project (The South Sea Project). The collection includes 6,000-year-old archaeological fi nds from the days when Flevoland was still an extensive marshland, as well as archives with thousands of documents, photographs, fi lms and soundtracks, implements, equipment, engravings and paintings. There’s plenty for children to do, including presentations that let them step into the shoes of a dyke builder, archaeologist or lockkeeper. Educational experiments and games teach them about one of the Netherlands’ key challenges: water management. Oostvaardersdijk 113, Lelystad www.nieuwlanderfgoed.nl
Aviodrome in Lelystad tells the story behind Dutch aviation. From the first ever flight in an airplane, to the modern aerospace industry. More than 100 beautiful aircrafts can be viewed from the outside and closely inspected on the inside. One thing is certain: time flies at Aviodrome!
Address: Pelikaanweg 50, 8218 PG, Lelystad, www.aviodrome.nl
Aviation Theme Park Aviodrome
The best flight
destination in the
Netherlands!
SteP iNtO A huGe BOeiNG 747
tAke the PiLOt’S SeAt iN the FLiGht SimuLAtOr
Be cAPtivAteD iN the 4D theAter
check iN FOr A SiGhtSeeiNG FLiGht ABOve LeLyStAD
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TIPIn the summer months of July and August, visitors to the Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet can make use of a shuttle service. The shuttle bus – which runs once a day - is a direct connection between Amsterdam Central Station (across St. Nicolaas basilic) and Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet. The cost per person is €15,- round trip.
MINI NEW LAND ros n lsd
BATAVIA STAD AMSTERDAMFASHION OUTLETA shoppers’ paradise, the Batavia Stad is a lakeside fashion outlet mall. Bargain hunters fl ock here from around the country to seek out big brands and discounted goods – from fashion to perfumes, kitchenware to sporting goods – from prestigious designers including Calvin Klein, Guess, Hugo Boss and dozens of others in more than 100 shops. The Batavia Stad also has six eateries that range from a Subway to the more refi ned café-restaurant Sailor’s. For a breather, take a wander away from the stores and admire the outdoor art, including Antony Gormley’s massive ‘Exposure’ sculpture that overlooks the water.Bataviaplein 60, Lelystad www.bataviastad.nl
AVIODROME LELYSTAD AIRPORTDelve into a century of aviation history at this 6,000m2 museum, cover-ing all aspects of airplanes and the develop-ment of fl ight – all the way from the Wright Brothers’ fi rst successful aircraft up to the present day. Explore a host of 70 historical aircraft, including Baron von Richthofen’s WWI triplane, a Spitfi re and a KLM 747. You can also play air-traffi c controller in a re-created fl ight tower or watch aviation fi lms in the mega-cinema.This summer, visitors can also take a peek into the cockpits of various aircraft, which is normally prohibited, and get under the skin of a real pilot (27-28 June & 26-27 September).Pelikaanweg 50, Lelystad www.visitfl evoland.nl/attractions
Beemster-polder
OostvaardersPlassen
Markermeer
Nijkerkernauw
Amst
IJmeer
AlmereStrand
Weesp
Wormer
Midden-beemster
Oosthuizen
Almere Haven
Almere
Lelystad
Monnickendam
Volendam
Edam
Marken
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Muiden, P+R Terrein
Muider-slot
Busstation ‘t Oor
Almere Centrum
De Kemphaan
Station LelystadBataviahaven
Aviodrome
Amsterdam Central Station
Station Almere Poort
AlmereOostvaarders
BataviaStad
Lelystad Airport
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UrkSchokland
Muiden
New LandNew Land
Amstelveen
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Amsterdam CityAmsterdam City
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OostvaardersPlassen
Markermeer
Nijkerkernauw
Amst
IJmeer
AlmereStrand
Weesp
Wormer
Midden-beemster
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Almere Haven
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Lelystad
Monnickendam
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Amsterdam Amstel
Muiden, P+R Terrein
Muider-slot
Busstation ‘t Oor
Almere Centrum
De Kemphaan
Station LelystadBataviahaven
Aviodrome
Amsterdam Central Station
Station Almere Poort
AlmereOostvaarders
BataviaStad
Lelystad Airport
A6
A6
A6
UrkSchokland
Muiden
New LandNew Land
Amstelveen
Big LakeBig Lake
Amsterdam CityAmsterdam City
0 1 2 3 4 5 km
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Attractions Agora Theater Bataviawerf New Land Museum Netherlands institute for Maritime Archaelogy Batavia Stad Amsterdam Fashion OutletAviodrome Lelystad Airport Schouwburg AlmereThermen La Mer Boei2 Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan Pancake Restaurant Dubbel Op City Farm PIT Museum Fun Forest Almere Natuurpark Lelystad Natuurbelevingcentrum De Oostvaarders Buitencentrum Oostvaardersplassen Het Belevenissenbos Cablepark Almere
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A feast for fans of modern architecture, Almere’s skyline elegantly fuses modern design with elements of nature.
EVENTSAlmere hosts many events throughout the year – from the hardcore and house Free Festival to beach festival ZAND, plus vintage car rallies and funfairs. Almere is also home to Europe’s oldest long-distance triathlon, the Challenge Almere-Amsterdam, in which international athletes compete (www.challenge-almere.com). The Schouwburg theatre , meanwhile, has a rich programme of theatre, dance, music and more (www.schouwburgalmere.nl), and in the summertime there are theatrical performances on the beach (www.visavis.nl). And outside the theatre Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan, theatre company Suburbia presents the show ‘Ploegen’.For a full calendar of events, see www.vvvalmere.nl.
THE ARCHITECTURE OF ALMERE
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WHERE INNOVATIONS THRIVEAlmere is a young city with a short but very special history. Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, Almere has a 42-kilometre coastline and beautiful scenery, but it is perhaps best known for its daring contemporary architecture.From the moment of its establishment in 1976, Almere has been one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. Since its initial development as a suburban area east of Amsterdam, it has grown to achieve the status of the Nether-lands’ most exemplary ‘new town’. In almost 40 years it has attracted more than 195,000 residents and 13,000 businesses, with great diversity in religion, ethnicity and culture.
THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUSARCHITECTSIconic Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, with his fi rm OMA, conceptualised the design of Almere centre to be exceptionally pedestrian friendly. Spaces rise and fall, widen and narrow, creating a curved surface so
the ‘fl at city’ is interrupted by an accumulation of functions. Koolhaas’s design creates a soft dynamic that underpins individual architecture statements from the world’s most famous architects. Pritzker Prize-winner Christian De Portzamparc designed the Citadel, a dual-purpose block that fi ts into Rem Koolhaas’s multi-layered urban plan. Below are public car network and car parks, while above the 50 shops on the high street, colourful houses are distributed around a large convex meadow.Tokyo architect Kazuyo Sejima designed the glass-rich municipal theatre and cultural centre on the shore of the Weerwater as a tranquil oasis. The colourful mural by artist Michael Lin was inspired by African fabrics. Don’t miss the award-winning new library, with its hip interior design – all curved shelves with integrated seating, workspaces, lighting and info terminals – by of-the-moment architects, Concrete.
TIPIn Almere architecture and shopping go hand in hand. The modern city centre is open for business seven days a week and features a wide selection of over 400 shops, including all the major brands. Relax after a successful day at the shops with a visit to one of the city’s charming restaurants. www.vvvalmere.nl
LAND ART FLEVOLAND
Six monumental art works by world famous artists
VISIT
TOURS
March - OctoberEvery last Sunday of the month INFORMATION
www.schouwburgalmere.nl/landart
Exposure, Antony Gormley (photo: Jordi Huisman)
NEWDIY TOURS!
LandArt_IAmsterdam_62x93 mm d.indd 1 09-12-14 15:33Discover the world of safety at PIT
Experience what the police, the fire brigade and ambulance service do on a daily basis to make our lives as safe as possible. Take a look in a real prison cell, put out a digital fire and investigate a crime scene.
For more information, please contact [email protected] or call 0031 (0)36 844 6637
PIT is an interactive experience about
safety and security, only 20 minutes
from Amsterdam
TYHAGold Anchor
Award Scheme
TYHAGold Anchor
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17e rre f ereNEW LANDMINI
PIT MUSEUMAn interactive exhibition on safety and the emergency services that keep the Netherlands safe, PIT was created when the Dutch Police Museum and the National Fire Museum merged. Visitors discover the importance of emergency workers and get involved with interactive exhibits, where you can extinguish a digital fi re and experience what it’s like in a police cell. There are also vintage fi re engines and police cars to be admired.Schipperplein 4, Almere www.vvvalmere.nl
RELAXATIONHad enough of the crowds? In the forests of Almere is luxurious day spa Thermen La Mer , which offers a variety of facilities plus wellness and beauty treatments. If you prefer your relaxation a little more active, Boei2 rents sloops and BBQ FunDonuts from where you can discover a different side to Almere. Or fi nd peace in nature at Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan , where you can shop for organic, fair-trade produce, enjoy the beautiful forest and romp in the Zuiderzee play woods. Onsite restaurant Dubbel Op serves delicious pancakes, and the city farm is great for kids .www.vvvalmere.nl
TIPExplore Almere by bike. Rentals are available at the Visitor Information Centre (www.vvvalmere.nl/rental). Or take a guided Segway tour with Segs in the City, taking in the city’s iconic architecture, parks and natural surroundings (www.segsinthecity.nl).
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Enjoy the stunning maritime attractions of the Netherlands’ Big Lake. The IJsselmeer, Markermeer and IJmeer form an
impressive artifi cial lake – formerly the Zuiderzee before the Afsluitdijk was built in 1932, closing it off from the sea (see page 05). This large mass of water is perfect for sailing, with the province of Noord-Holland along its west coast and Flevoland and Friesland to the east. Many companies rent boats or host guided voyages aboard catamarans, clippers and historic sailing ships. Swimming, surfi ng and sunbathing are also popular summertime attractions. But there’s plenty to do for landlubbers, too, including the wonderful nature reserve, enjoying fresh fi sh, local cuisine and socialising on the waterside.
Unique nature reserves and an impressive arti� cial lake perfect for water-sports make Flevoland a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
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FUN FOREST ALMERE
The sky’s the limit as you take to the trees at the Fun Forest in Almere’s Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan. With four routes through the trees and long, white-knuckle zip lines (up to 150 metres in length), it’s the perfect day out for the whole family. For children aged eight and over (minimum height 1.3 metres). The reception of Fun Forest is located in the new Forestry Commission outdoor centre, which has a great restaurant. Kemphaanpad, Almere www.funforest.nl/almere
NATUURPARK LELYSTADDiscover endangered spe-cies in a beautiful setting. Natuurpark Lelystad is, for many rare breeds such as the wild Przewalski’s horse, an important link on the way to a life in the wild. There is an exten-sive system of hiking and cycling trails plus plenty of picnic areas. The visitor centre offers information on tours and packages, and there’s a shop where you can rent bikes. www.visitfl evoland.nl/natuurpark
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TIPEnjoy the Big Lake by boat. No ordinary boat, Brigantijn Bounty offers a unique sailing experi-ence. An authentic tall ship, visitors can either get stuck in and help sail the ship or relax in 17th-century luxury (www.zeilschipbounty.nl). Oxalex, meanwhile, organises water-related events for up to 450 in conjunction with traditional sailing ships, and also provides a ferry service from Amsterdam to Almere and Lelystad (www.oxalex.nl).
CABLEPARK ALMERECalling all (water-based) thrill-seekers! Spend a day whizzing around the Weerwater Lake on waterskis or a wakeboard, aided by a kilometre-long cable track that enables speeds of up to 30km/h. After working up an appetite, grab a seat on the restaurant terrace and take in the tremendous views of the Almere skyline. Advance booking recommended; closed in winter.Bergsmapad 1, Almere www.cableparkalmere.nl
OOSTVAARDERSPLASSEN:THE NEW WILDERNESSThe Oostvaardersplassen is a unique nature reserve located between Lelystad and Almere. Comprised of 56km2 of protected marshlands and fi elds, it serves as a migration area for birds and makes for an amazing spot for a hike or a day of bird watching. Its ‘locals’ include not just residents of the feathered kind but wild varieties of deer, cattle and Konik horses. The nature fi lm De Nieuwe Wildernis (The New Wilderness) was fi lmed on the Oostvaardersplassen, a spectacular production that captured wildlife on the nature reserve over a period of two years. Download the dedicated iTour in advance of your visit (www.izi.travel) – the perfect accompani-ment to a day exploring this exceptional nature reserve. Stop by one of the two visitor centres – one in Almere, the other in Lelystad – to join an organised tour.Natuurbelevingcentrum De OostvaardersOostvaardersbosplaats 1Almere Buiten Buitencentrum OostvaardersplassenKitsweg 1, Lelystad www.visitfl evoland.nl/oostvaardersplassen
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HET BELEVENISSENBOSLelystad boasts the largest (40 acres), most adventurous and instruc-tive ‘play woods’ in the Netherlands, consisting of several sub-areas, each with its own atmosphere and special activities. From the small streams to the watery landscape of ‘Meander’, foraging trails, climbing trees, zip lines, rope swings and bush-camping facilities, youngsters from six to 16 will especially enjoy the Belevenissenbos. www.visitfl evoland.nl/belevenissenbos
DISCOVER NEW LAND
HOW THE DUTCH LIVE ON THE BORDER BETWEEN LAND & SEA:
LAND RECLAMATION, VOC ERA, MARITIME ARCHAEOLOGY
Shipbuilding in the era of the VOC:
visit the replica of the ‘Batavia’
The history of the largest land-
reclamation project ever: the Zuyderzee
Project
More than 400 shipwrecks
were discovered on the bottom of the former Zuyderzee
WWW.NIEUWLANDERFGOED.NL / WWW.BATAVIAWERF.NLOOSTVAARDERSDIJK, LELYSTAD (NEXT TO BATAVIA STAD FASHION OUTLET)
AMSTERDAM
LELYSTAD
21MINI sor oronNEW LAND
Everything you need to get the most out of your visit.www.visit� evoland.nl
VISITOR INFORMATION
GET OUT OF TOWN BUS PASS+€10
VISITOR INFOCENTRES AMSTERDAM A I amsterdam Visitor Centre Stationsplein 10 (across from Central Station)+31 (0)20 702 6000 www.iamsterdam.com
B I amsterdam Visitor Centre Schiphol Airport (Arrivals 2 at Schiphol Plaza)+31 (0)20 702 6000www.iamsterdam.com
LELYSTAD C VVV Lelystad (city centre)De Promesse 4, Lelystad+31 (0)320 276 627www.vvvlelystad.nl
D VVV Lelystad (Batavia Stad)Bataviaplein 60, Lelystad+31 (0)320 292 900www.vvvlelystad.nl
ALMERE E VVV AlmereDe Diagonaal 199, Almere+31 (0)36 548 5041www.vvvalmere.nl
GETTING THERE LELYSTAD From Amsterdam Central Station, trains to Lelystad Central take approxi-mately 40min. You get a fantastic view of the Oosvaardersplassen from the train.
ALMERE From Amsterdam Central Station, trains to Almere take approximately 20min Alternatively, bus 327, from Amsterdam Amstel Station, goes to Almere Haven in approximately 40min.
SELECTION OF ACCOMMODATION LELYSTAD APOLLO HOTELLELYSTAD CITY CENTRE86 rooms, two restau-rants, within walking distance of the centre.Agoraweg 11+31 (0)320 242 444www.hotellelystad.nl
FLEVO MARINAUnique fl oating chalets in the harbor of Marina Flevo.IJsselmeerdijk 2+31 (0)320 279 811www.fl evomarina.com
LELYMARE LOGIESSituated in the organic agricultural area of Lelystad.Beginweg 35+31 (0)6 5389 7741www.lelymarelogies.com
ALMERE LODGERIE HET GROENEGEHEIMLuxurious forest lodges with veranda & free WiFi.Michauxpad 16+31 (0)36 540 3175www.lodgerie.nl
VAN DER VALK HOTELALMERE315 rooms, fi tness centre & restaurant; free parking & WiFi.Veluwezoom 45+31 (0)36 800 0800www.hotelalmere.nl
SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS LELYSTAD RESTAURANT’T DIJKHUYSJETaking seasonal inspira-tion from the sea and land.Oostvaardersdijk 57+31 (0)320 262 022www.dijkhuysje.nl
RESTAURANT GRANDCAFE APPLAUSLocated in the stunning Agora Theater, serving Mediterranean dishes.Agorabaan 14+31 (0)320 239 248www.restaurantapplaus.nl
ALMERE BOATHOUSEOn the banks of the Noorderplassen Lake; international cuisine.Noorderplassenweg 150+31 (0)36 530 5000www.boathouse.nl
HET VEERHUISIn the harbour, using fresh, local produce.Havenhoofd 7+31 (0)36 521 5833www.hetveerhuys.nl
I AMSTERDAM CITY CARD
Get free access to more than 40 of Amsterdam’s major museums, a canal cruise through the city centre and free public transport on all metro, bus and tram lines operated by GVB Amsterdam.
AMSTERDAM& REGION DAYTICKET
Discover Amsterdam and the surrounding area with the Am-sterdam & Region Day Ticket – a spe-cial 24-hour public transport pass valid on metros, trams and buses operated by GVB, Connexxion and EBS (this ticket is only valid for travelling to Almere).
Special offer:combine the Amster-dam & Region Day Ticket with the I am-sterdam City Card. Explore the Amster-dam area and its at-tractions and save money by picking up the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket for just €10*.
*This offer is exclusively available at the I amsterdam Visitor Centres
DISCOVER NEW LAND
HOW THE DUTCH LIVE ON THE BORDER BETWEEN LAND & SEA:
LAND RECLAMATION, VOC ERA, MARITIME ARCHAEOLOGY
Shipbuilding in the era of the VOC:
visit the replica of the ‘Batavia’
The history of the largest land-
reclamation project ever: the Zuyderzee
Project
More than 400 shipwrecks
were discovered on the bottom of the former Zuyderzee
WWW.NIEUWLANDERFGOED.NL / WWW.BATAVIAWERF.NLOOSTVAARDERSDIJK, LELYSTAD (NEXT TO BATAVIA STAD FASHION OUTLET)
AMSTERDAM
LELYSTAD
NEW LANDMINI y es
� ere’s more to Amsterdam than you may think. Discover the rest of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area. Within 30 minutes of the city centre these inspiring city escapes o� er a true taste of the Netherlands, old and new.
Castles & GardensRetreat to the Amstel River countryside, fortress stretch and leisure lakes to soak up maritime and military history. This region is especially rich in historical river estates and extravagant castles to be admired or explored. FREE entrance to Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot (Muiden; pictured below) with the I amsterdam City Card.
Amsterdam BeachExperience the bustling beach and check out a variety of shops, restaurants and beach clubs in Zandvoort. The wind water beach in IJmuiden aan Zee is great for thrill-seekers looking to try their hand at water sports. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking or cycling through the iconic Dutch dunes.
Flowers of AmsterdamBe a part of contemporary tulip mania just a short hop from Amsterdam. Find fl ower parades, the world-famous Keukenhof fl ower garden, the world’s largest fl ower auction in Aalsmeer and bulb fi elds bursting into glorious colour.
Authentic HaarlemEnjoy a perfect trip to Haarlem, an authentic city of remarkable history and culture right on Amsterdam’s doorstep, whose beauty provided inspiration for many Golden Age painters. Fill your day with excellent shopping, spectacular museums and sunny terraces, all set amongst monumental buildings.FREE entrance to the Frans Hals and Teylers museums & more with the I amsterdam City Card.
Old HollandWindmills spin in the breeze at the Zaanse Schans, church bells ring out and cows wander around Old Holland’s farmhouses. Amsterdam Waterland and smalltown harbours Marken, Volendam and Monnickendam showcase traditional skills such as shipbuilding, fi shing and cheese making.FREE use of the Volendam to Marken ferry, entrance to the windmills and the Zaanhopper ferry at the Zaanse Schans with the I amsterdam City Card.
See www.iamsterdam.com/cityescapes for more excursion tips.
CITY ESCAPES22
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You’re invited
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SHOP AS A VIP & ENJOY 10% ADDITIONAL SAVINGS*Mention the codeword „ NEW LAND” at the Information Centre of Batavia Stad Amsterdam Fashion Outlet to receive your personal VIP Voucher. Valid until 30 September 2015.
BATAVIASTAD.COM
ADV_CTA_BS2015_148x210_CORR.indd 1 20-05-15 09:29
w w w . v i s i t f l e v o l a n d . n l / n e w l a n d
For more information about Flevoland you can visit our website:
tips!
schokland: An island on dry land (first
Dutch UNESCO World Heritage Site)
new land Heritage Centre:
The museum’s central theme is the
largest land reclamation project ever
oostvaardersplassen: The biggest
wetland nature reserve in the
Netherlands
Urk: This fishing village has existed
for more than a thousand years
architecture: The city centres of
Almere and Lelystad attract
architecture aficionados from all
over the world
flevolandFlevoland is the result of the biggest impoldering project ever undertaken. Where once was only water, today you can see all kinds of different special attractions at an area that exists six metres below sea level.
the largest polder in the world
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