Zandvoort is one of the most popular beach towns in the country. From Amsterdam Central Station, the train will take you there directly in under half an hour, and from Haarlem Central Station, you are only ten minutes away from feeling the sand between your toes and enjoying an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life!
Some interesting facts:
- When the weather is nice, Zandvoort can attract up to a hundred thousand beachgoers in a single day! In 1983, singer Willem Duyn satirized the busy atmosphere on trains to Zandvoort in a hit song with comical lyrics that recount multiple episodes of chaos on the train.
- Prior to becoming a busy tourist destination, Zandvoort’s economy relied predominantly on fishing. It wasn’t until the 19th century that Zandvoort achieved a reputation as a seaside resort.
- The main beach is approximately nine miles long. Dotting the seaside, are more than thirty beach clubs offering food and entertainment.
- A much-visited attraction is Circus Zandvoort, a lively entertainment center and casino that opened in 1991 and provides fun for people of all ages. Designed by Sjoerd Soeters, a renowned postmodern Dutch architect, the building draws attention with its bold architecture. The structure of the building mimics a traditional tented circus.
- One of the most noteworthy buildings in Zandvoort is the town hall, dating to 1912 and a designated heritage building since 2001. Especially attractive is its facade, reminiscent of an open book or a butterfly.
- After a 36-year hiatus, Circuit Zandvoort, the town’s motor racing track is home again to the Dutch Formula 1 Grand-Prix. The track is used for many international motor racing events, and even hosts running and cycling events.
- Zandvoort’s sand dunes, which protect the low-lying hinterland from the sea, are famous for their wildlife and tranquil trails, ideal for cycling, running and long walks.
For more details about Zandvoort, read our Travel feature in Issue 35 of Dutch the magazine.
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