In Heemstede, parks and historic buildings tell the story of very different eras. This is particularly evident in Groenendaal: the park forest lies on original inland dune terrain and combines open and wooded areas, deciduous and coniferous trees with older woodland plots, specimen trees and groups of trees. As a largely preserved, extensive park forest dating from the second half of the 18th century, Groenendaal is also a national monument (Rijksmonument).
Discover the history of Groenendaal Park
Among the park’s early features are the Lindenkom, with an adjacent hill and sightlines. A historic viewpoint hill has also been preserved; the Belvedere was later built on it. The character of the park can therefore be seen not only in its different tree populations, but also in its design. If you are out walking, a hiking route leads through Groenendaal. It is suitable for mobility aids and strollers; if obstacles prevent passage, an alternative is provided. Part of the route passes through an area where dogs are not allowed.
Visits are subject to a clear time limit: access to Wandelbos Groenendaal and stays there are permitted only between sunrise and sunset. The Manpad Route offers a different view of the surroundings: it is a cycling route along the edge of the inland dunes and passes Huis te Manpad, built in the 17th century. Before setting out, it is worth checking the route, as temporary detours may change.
Huis te Manpad and its gardens
Huis te Manpad is a historic country estate in Heemstede. The Amsterdam merchant Cornelis Mattheuszn. Heuts had the house built between 1634 and 1640. Formal design elements from the 18th century have been preserved in the park, including a central sightline and parts of the avenue pattern. Particularly distinctive is the more than 200-metre-long serpentine wall, planted with old fruit varieties. Elements of 19th-century landscape design can also be found here.
The park around Huis te Manpad can be visited by request. The island with the privately inhabited house is not accessible to the public. This distinction is important for planning: visiting the park and accessing the house are not the same thing. The Manpad Route passes the historic house, while a request is required to visit the park grounds.
Experience nature in Park Meermond
Park Meermond offers a different focus. It lies on the Spaarne, behind the municipality’s public works yard and beside the meadows of Hageveld. Designed as a nature playground, it has a play forest and a sustainability trail. Information boards along the trail cover topics relating to the environment and surroundings, allowing a walk to be combined with small insights into the landscape. The park is also suitable for enjoying nature and picnicking.
The main entrance and parking are located at Cruquiusweg 49. You can reach the park on foot or by bicycle via the recreational path from Hageveld. Park Meermond is open daily from sunrise to sunset; check the latest access information when planning your visit. This differs from the arrangements for the park around Huis te Manpad: in Meermond, the entrance, address and access options are provided, while visits to Huis te Manpad are by request.
Mill, church and local impressions
De Nachtegaal is a round grain mill of the gallery-mill type (stellingmolen). Construction began in 1760 and was completed in 1761. The mill’s structure has been listed as a national monument (Rijksmonument) since 21 April 2000. The mill also has industrial-archaeological value as a reminder of the earliest industrial activities in Heemstede. In the old district of De Glip, it shapes the view at the bridge over the Glipperzandvaart.
The Oude Kerk also connects several layers of history: it was built in 1625 on the remains of a 14th-century Marian chapel. The single-aisle Late Gothic church houses the tomb monument of Adriaan Pauw, dating from 1656, and a one-manual organ by A. Paradijs, dating from 1752. It is still used for church services and is also suitable for concerts and lectures.
For another glimpse of local life, a market is held in Heemstede every Wednesday. Kinderboerderij ’t Molentje is a visitor-friendly children’s farm with animals and activities. Its visitor centre can be hired for creative workshops for small groups: no more than twelve people per morning or afternoon session. So in Heemstede, alongside park forests and garden art, you can also discover offerings that are part of everyday community life.
Discover more destinations: Heemstede, Langedijk, Muiden, Hilversum, Graft-De Rijp, Wieringermeer, Drechterland, Haarlemmermeer.
To the regional travel overview: North Holland.
