Leerdam: A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands

Located in the province of South Holland, Leerdam is a charming city that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. With its picturesque canals and historic buildings, it's a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the authentic Dutch way of life. In this travel guide, we'll explore the top tourist attractions that Leerdam has to offer.

Aqua Zoo Leerdam

One of the most popular attractions in Leerdam is the Aqua Zoo. Located in Lingesteynplantsoen, this zoo is home to a wide variety of aquatic animals such as sharks, stingrays, piranhas, and many more. Visitors can walk through the underwater tunnel to experience the marine life up close. The Aqua Zoo also offers interactive shows and feeding sessions, making it an excellent destination for families with children.

URL: www.aquazoo-leerdam.nl/

The Glassworks Leerdam

Leerdam has a long tradition of glassmaking, and the Glassworks museum is an excellent representation of the city's heritage. Visitors can learn about the history of glassmaking and watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces. The Glassworks museum also hosts exhibitions showcasing the works of contemporary glass artists.

URL: www.nationaalglasmuseum.nl/

Nationaal Glasmuseum

For those who want to explore the world of glassmaking further, the Nationaal Glasmuseum is a must-visit attraction. Located in Lingedijk, this museum displays an extensive collection of glass objects dating back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can learn about the different techniques used in glassmaking and try their hand at blowing their glass creations.

URL: www.nationaalglasmuseum.nl/

Dutch Bridgemuseum

Located in Watertorenlaan, the Dutch Bridgemuseum is a unique attraction that celebrates the art and engineering of bridges. The museum has a vast collection of bridge models and exhibits, showcasing the different types of bridges and their history. Visitors can also learn about the challenges of building a bridge and the innovative solutions used to overcome them.

URL: www.bridgemuseum.nl/

Muizentoren

The Muizentoren, also known as the Mouse Tower, is a historical tower in Leerdam that dates back to the 14th century. The tower was once used as a prison and a torture chamber before being converted into a residence. Today, the tower is a popular landmark in Leerdam and offers a stunning view of the city's skyline.

Vijfheerenlanden Route

The Vijfheerenlanden Route is a popular cycling route that takes visitors through the scenic countryside of Leerdam. The route starts in Industrieweg and winds through the picturesque villages of Vianen and Lexmond. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Dutch polders and spot various bird species.

URL: www.zuidhollandslandschap.n...

Stichting Statenbijbel- en Boekenmuseum

The Stichting Statenbijbel- en Boekenmuseum is a unique museum dedicated to the history of the Dutch Bible. Located in Lingedijk, the museum displays an extensive collection of Bibles, including the first Dutch translation of the Bible from the 16th century. Visitors can learn about the cultural and religious significance of the Dutch Bible and its impact on the country's history.

URL: www.statenbijbelmuseum.nl/

Uilen- en Dierenpark De Paay

The Uilen- en Dierenpark De Paay is a wildlife park located in Doctor A. Kuyperweg. The park is home to various animal species, including eagles, otters, monkeys, and kangaroos. Visitors can also attend interactive shows and feeding sessions and learn about the animals' habits and behaviors.

URL: www.depaay.nl/

De Huibert

De Huibert is a nature preserve located in Huibertweg. The area offers a beautiful natural landscape consisting of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can go for a hike or a bike ride, spot various animal species, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

URL: www.zuidhollandslandschap.nl/

Kennedymars 80 Van De Glasstad

For the adventurous souls, the Kennedymars 80 Van De Glasstad is a challenging hiking trail that covers 80 kilometers of Leerdam's countryside. The route starts in Quirinus de Palmelaan and takes visitors through the scenic landscapes of the Dutch polders, woodlands, and rivers. The hike is held annually and attracts thousands of hikers from around the world.

Voetbalplek

Located in Park Lindestraat, the Voetbalplek is a recreational area where visitors can play football or other sports. The area is surrounded by greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual game with friends or family.

Het Minidome

The Het Minidome is an indoor playground that offers a fun-filled day for kids of all ages. The playground is located in Voorstraat and features a variety of attractions such as trampolines, slides, and obstacle courses. The Het Minidome also has a cozy cafeteria where parents can relax while their kids play.

URL: www.minidome.nl/

Groene Wissel 149

The Groene Wissel 149 is a hiking trail that starts in Stationsweg. The route takes visitors through the scenic countryside of Leerdam, offering beautiful landscapes and stunning views. Along the way, visitors can stop at the charming villages of Heukelum and Asperen and explore their historical buildings and landmarks.

Kasteel Heukelum

Located in Heidensweg, Kasteel Heukelum is a medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century. The castle has a rich history and was once a residence of the Dutch nobility. Today, the castle is open to visitors, who can enjoy a guided tour of the castle's rooms and learn about its historical significance.

URL: www.kasteelheukelum.nl/

Fort Asperen

Fort Asperen is a historical fortification located in Langendijk. The fort dates back to the 19th century and was once a part of the Dutch Waterline defense system. Today, the fort is open to visitors, who can explore its underground passages, gunpowder magazine, and barracks.

URL: www.fortbijasperen.nl/

Houten Speelpark

The Houten Speelpark is a unique outdoor playground that offers a fun-filled day for kids. Located in Park Patrimoniumstraat, the playground features various attractions such as climbing towers, slides, and swings. The playground is made entirely of wood, making it an eco-friendly attraction.

Natuurcentrum De Schaapskooi

The Natuurcentrum De Schaapskooi is a nature center located in Overboeicop. The center offers various educational programs and exhibitions on the local flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about the different habitats in the Leerdam area and spot various animal species such as sheep, cows, and pigs.

URL: www.natuurcentrum.nl/

Bossenwaard bij Vreeswijk

The Bossenwaard is a beautiful natural area located near Vreeswijk. The area offers stunning landscapes consisting of wetlands, forests, and meadows. Visitors can go for a hike or a bike ride and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

URL: rhcrijnstreek.nl/bronnen/lo...

Bunker 599

Bunker 599 is a unique attraction located in Diefdijk. The bunker was built during World War II as part of the Dutch defense system. Today, the bunker is open to visitors, who can explore its underground passages and learn about its historical significance.

URL: forten.nl/forten/doorgezaag...

Molen Botersloot

The Molen Botersloot is a historical windmill located in Grotewaard. The windmill dates back to the 18th century and was once used to grind corn. Today, the windmill is open to visitors, who can enjoy a guided tour and learn about its history and operation.

URL: www.molendatabase.nl/nederl...

Sluis- en Stuwcomplex Hagestein

The Sluis- en Stuwcomplex Hagestein is a hydraulic engineering marvel located in Lekdijk. The complex controls the water level in the river Lek and is essential in preventing floods in the area. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour and learn about the complex's operation and history.

Everdingerwaard

The Everdingerwaard is a beautiful natural area located near Leerdam. The area boasts stunning landscapes consisting of wetlands and meadows. Visitors can go for a hike or a bike ride and spot various bird species.

URL: utrechtslandschap.nl/everdi...

Recreatieterrein Lingebos

The Recreatieterrein Lingebos is a natural area located in Poelweg. The area offers various recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can also relax in one of the picnic areas and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

URL: www.staatsbosbeheer.nl/Natu...