Kudelstaart brings together local history, routes, and water sports on the Westeinderplassen. The settlement emerged around 1200 as the peatland was drained and cultivated; in 1237, Kudelstaart was first mentioned under the name “Schoenedorp.” Its emergence around 1200 describes the early settlement, while the reference in 1237 records a later naming. Street layouts and historic buildings also offer insights into the development of the village.

Local History and Historic Buildings

The Kudelstaartseweg developed from a drainage and cultivation axis; this historic line is still clearly visible. The construction of Fort bij Kudelstaart also changed the settlement pattern: it divided the ribbon village into two parts. The center subsequently shifted from Vrouwentroost in the north to the south.

The R.K. St.-Johannes de Doperkerk has three aisles, a choir closed on three sides, and a partly recessed tower. The Inlaatsluis near Kudelstaartseweg 83 is part of the Stelling van Amsterdam. Fort bij Kudelstaart also belongs to this defensive system. Surrounded by a moat, it was built to defend an access route along the Kudelstaartseweg. The fort is not open to visitors.

The Westeinderplassen and Seasonal Landscapes

The Westeinderplassen cover about ten square kilometers. Nearby villages include Aalsmeer, Kudelstaart, and Leimuiden. Colorful tulip fields lie southwest of Kudelstaart, near the Westeinderplassen. They generally bloom in April; bear this in mind if the fields are to be a highlight of your trip.

Church Remains at Calslagen

Near Kudelstaart, on the Westeinderplas, are the remains of a church in Calslagen, with several gravestones. A low wall, a few courses of stone high, has been built on the former church site over the church foundations. Several gravestones from the original church floor lie within the original church space. Check locally before your visit to find out whether you can access the site.

Routes Through Kudelstaart and the Surrounding Area

A historic cycling and walking route passes through Aalsmeer, Kudelstaart, and Calslagen, taking in 36 historic sites. Stichting Oud Aalsmeer has installed 36 information boards along the route; the boards and QR codes provide background information. Signage details may change, so it is worth checking the route information before setting off.

The Fortenfietsroute is another route option. Its turning point is in Kudelstaart, by the Amstel, from where it leads back to Aalsmeer. This turning point differs from the route of the historic cycling and walking trail through the three places mentioned above. Check the route information before setting out to choose the route that suits you.

Activities on the Water

Waterskischool CopinSki is located in Kudelstaart, right on the Westeinderplassen, and caters to water-skiers and wakeboarders of all ages and skill levels. Check before traveling whether lessons and equipment are available. This lets you tailor your plans to the specific activity, without combining water sports and the village’s historic sites into a single outing.

Surfeiland Aalsmeer is also located near Kudelstaart, between the old centers of Aalsmeer and Kudelstaart. It offers water skiing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and flyboarding. The two water sports locations offer different activities; the historic route, meanwhile, visits sites and shares information along its own course.

Discover more destinations: Aalsmeer.

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