Feel like getting away for a while? With a long Easter or Whit weekend ahead, now is the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway in the Netherlands. That extra day off makes a few nights away feel like a real mini holiday. You really don’t have to travel far to discover beautiful places and fully relax. Before you know it, you’ll be at your holiday destination, making the most of your time off. We’ve listed the best spots and activities for a weekend away, all in and around our Dutch parks. Will you go for the sea, nature or the city?

Weekend getaway by the sea

A weekend at the coast is always a good idea! The fresh sea air, the sound of the waves and the stunning views give you a whole new boost of energy. Whether you want to blow away the cobwebs, try watersports or soak up the sun: sometimes a dose of ‘vitamin sea’ is exactly what you need.

Where to stay?

  • Park Zandvoort: Relax in comfortable hotel rooms and cottages with a private terrace, while listening to the sea in the background. You can walk straight onto the beach! Choose a Wellness Hotel Suite for extra relaxation and completely recharge in just one weekend.
  • Port Zélande: Book a luxury cottage, Premium apartment or lodge tent overlooking the Grevelingen Lake. The ideal destination for families and watersports enthusiasts looking for a weekend full of adventure and relaxation on and around the water.
  • De Eemhof: Opt for a Waterfront VIP Apartment or Houseboat for a unique weekend right by the water, including your own private hot tub for extra relaxation. The perfect place to retreat after a day on the water.

     

What to do?

Our parks on the Dutch coast have everything – and more – for a wonderful weekend away. On sunny days, you can try all kinds of watersports. Spend an afternoon kitesurfing, discover the underwater world with a diving lesson or take on the waves while wakeboarding. Or go sailing for the ultimate feeling of freedom at sea!

Prefer to take it easy? Enjoy a relaxing beach walk, have a long lunch at a beach club or pick out the best sun lounger. Order your favourite drink and watch everyone enjoy beach life from a distance. What more could you need?

Is the weather a little less kind? At Center Parcs, that’s no problem at all! The Aqua Mundo offers plenty of water fun. Relax in the wave pool or look for action in the white water rapids. Always wanted to surf? Try the Flow Rider (surf simulator) at De Eemhof – if you dare. Can you stay on your board?

What to see?

To make the most of your weekend, it’s fun to explore the surroundings of our seaside parks as well. Here are our tips for the best sights nearby:

 

The beach and Circuit Zandvoort

From Park Zandvoort, you can walk straight onto the beach. Feel the sand between your toes, take a refreshing dip in the sea or go for a long beach walk. Ready for a break? Settle down at one of the cosy beach pavilions – plenty to choose from! Looking for more action? Visit Circuit Zandvoort, just around the corner.

 

Brouwersdam and the Grevelingenlake

Just 5 minutes from Port Zélande, you’ll find the Brouwersdam and the Grevelingen Lake. That means plenty of great outings! Spot seals at the Brouwerssluis or walk the Bunker Route on the north side of the Brouwersdam. Love watersports? On the Grevelingen Lake you can waterski, surf, sail and much more. End the day with windswept hair and a well-earned drink at a cosy beach club.

 

The Eemmeer and Neeltje Jans

Within 25 minutes of De Eemhof, you’ll be at Neeltje Jans, where you can admire the impressive Delta Works up close. Discover everything about the power of the sea in the museum and let the kids splash around in the water playground. Want to see seals up close? Visit Neeltje Jans for a seal show and learn more about these special animals.

Weekend getaway in the forest or nature

If you really want to unwind, nature works wonders. In the silence of the forest or the tranquillity of the countryside, you can fully switch off and enjoy the moment, without the distractions of everyday life. A weekend away can truly feel like a reset. Which destination is at the top of your list?

Where to stay?

  • Het Heijderbos: Experience a unique jungle stay in the Jungle Cabanas or choose an Adventure Cottage for a special weekend away. Here, you’ll truly feel far from home!
  • De Kempervennen: Stay in a luxury VIP Eden Cottage with a Finnish sauna for ultimate relaxation. Or book a Houseboat to discover what it’s like to live on the water!
  • Het Meerdal & Limburgse Peel: Book a child-friendly Pony Cottage, right next to the riding arena. Step out of bed and go straight to cuddle the ponies – the sweetest neighbours you could wish for! Or choose a Kids Cottage, packed with fun for little ones. The renewed Comfort and VIP cottages are set right in the greenery; ideal for families and nature lovers.

What to do?

Now that you’re surrounded by beautiful nature, you’ll want to make the most of it. Head out for a walk or bike ride through the natural landscapes. You’ll be amazed at just how beautiful our country is! For adventurers, there’s plenty of action too. Archery, zip lining, climbing – at Center Parcs, it’s all possible.

If the weather isn’t great, you can continue your adventures indoors. There are plenty of indoor facilities waiting for you! Visit the Aqua Mundo for water fun in the white water rapids, snorkelling pool, hot tubs and slides. Or spend an afternoon bowling, playing mini golf or enjoying games in Gametown.

What to see?

Our parks consist of 90% forest and water and are located in the most beautiful natural areas of the Netherlands. Step out of your cottage and immediately enjoy the greenery around you! Feel like exploring further? Discover the nearby national parks and nature reserves. These are our favourite spots for a day trip:

 

National Park De Maasduinen

From Het Heijderbos, you can walk straight into National Park De Maasduinen. An opportunity you don’t want to miss, because it’s stunning here! This vast nature reserve is full of beautiful forests, lakes and dunes. Follow one of the many walking routes and enjoy the peace and space around you.

 

Strabrechtse Heide

Staying at De Kempervennen? Just 15 minutes from the park lies the Strabrechtse Heide. Another natural gem you won’t want to miss! This heathland offers plenty of walking and cycling paths where you can enjoy tranquillity and sweeping views. Who knows, you might even be enthusiastically greeted by the local residents: a flock of Kempische heath sheep.

 

National Park De Groote Peel

You can wander endlessly in De Groote Peel. This vast nature reserve has it all: marshes, forests, pools and heathland. Follow the wooden boardwalks and soak up the peaceful surroundings. De Groote Peel is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as many special bird species call this area home.

Weekend getaway to the city

While some people recharge in nature, others love immersing themselves in the buzz of the city. Fancy a city trip, but still want to enjoy peace and quiet? In our parks, you’ll experience the best of both worlds. Stay surrounded by nature, yet reach the vibrant city centre in no time. The perfect combination!

Where to stay?

  • De Eemhof: Treat yourself to the very best with a luxury Waterfront apartment overlooking the marina. That view never gets old, does it?

  • Parc Sandur & De Huttenheugte: Book a spacious detached cottage or a Wonder of Nature cottage (De Huttenheugte) for ultimate tranquillity in a water-rich setting.

  • Park Zandvoort: Choose a Wellness Suite for optimal relaxation after a day in the city, or go for a Beach Chilla in a beach theme for the ultimate coastal vibe.

     

What to do?

There’s always something happening in our parks! Enjoy spectacular shows and discover the many culinary options in the Market Dome. Children can let off steam in countless places, such as the Action Factory, the High Adventure Experience or at the children’s farm with its adorable animals. Ready to unwind after a day of shopping or sightseeing? Head to the wellness area or sauna, or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

What to see?

Love combining a stay in nature with the liveliness of a city? Our parks are always within easy reach of vibrant cities full of life. Wander through historic streets, visit museums, discover unique boutiques and enjoy fantastic restaurants and cafés. Everything you need for an amazing weekend away! These cities are definitely worth a visit:

Haarlem
Park Zandvoort is just a stone’s throw from Haarlem. Within 15 minutes, you’ll be in the historic centre of this charming city. Wander through its quaint streets with characteristic cobblestones and canals, and discover the Grote Markt and the Golden Streets. You’ll find cosy cafés, lovely boutiques and fascinating museums for a perfect day out.

Amersfoort
About 40 minutes from De Eemhof lies Amersfoort. You’ll notice how charming this city is as soon as you enter its historic centre. Admire the beautiful canals, ancient city walls and the iconic Koppelpoort. You can also shop to your heart’s content – from vintage treasures to the latest fashion in the cosy shopping streets.

Emmen
From Parc Sandur & De Huttenheugte, you’ll be in Emmen within 10 minutes, a friendly city with a wide range of shops and restaurants. The ideal destination for a day trip if you’re craving a bit of city buzz. Visiting with children? A trip to Wildlands Adventure Zoo is guaranteed to be a hit!

Plan your weekend getaway in the Netherlands at Center Parcs

Is a long weekend coming up, like Easter or Whit? Make it special and head off for a spontaneous break! Gather your favourite people and plan your weekend getaway. Whether you’re heading to the sea, nature or the city: our cottages are the perfect base for your mini escape. Discover all our parks and plan your perfect weekend getaway in the Netherlands.

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