Amstelpark

The Amstelpark in Amsterdam is a true green gem located in the southern part of the city, an oasis of peace and beauty that enchants residents and tourists with its extraordinary variety of flora, its artistic structures, and numerous recreational spaces. This park, spanning over 47 hectares along the banks of the Amstel River, was originally created to host the 1972 Floriade, a prestigious international horticultural exhibition held in the Netherlands every ten years. Since then, the Amstelpark has maintained its charm, preserving many of the features introduced during the exhibition. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Amstelpark is its extraordinary biodiversity. The park hosts a wide range of plants from all over the world, including a splendid collection of rhododendrons that bloom in spring, transforming the park into a riot of colors and scents. In addition to the rhododendrons, the park also boasts a rose garden, a rhododendron valley, and a Japanese garden, the latter renovated in 2001 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of relations between the Netherlands and Japan. The Japanese garden, with its arrangements of stones, gravel, and bonsai trees, offers a place of quiet and reflection, a corner of tranquility that contrasts with the lively dynamism of the city. The park houses two art galleries: Het Glazen Huis and the Orangerie. Het Glazen Huis, or Glass House, is a modern structure that hosts contemporary art exhibitions, often focused on themes of sustainability and the environment. The Orangerie, in addition to serving as a greenhouse for tropical plants, transforms into an exhibition space for sculptures and artistic installations during the warmer months. These exhibition spaces within the park offer a unique fusion of art and nature, stimulating reflection and dialogue among visitors. The park is also rich in leisure facilities, making it an ideal place for families and children. One of the main attractions is the Amstelpark train, which travels through the park offering a fun and relaxing way to explore the various gardens and green areas. Children can enjoy the playground or visit the educational farm, where they can interact with domestic animals and learn more about rural life. Additionally, the mini-golf and numerous walking and cycling paths offer recreational opportunities for people of all ages. The history of the Amstelpark is closely linked to its origin as the site of the 1972 Floriade. This event saw the participation of countries from all over the world, which contributed with pavilions and themed gardens. Although many of these pavilions were removed after the exhibition, the park has retained its international spirit and focus on natural beauty. The Riekermolen windmill, dating back to 1636, is one of the park’s most fascinating historical elements. Originally located in the Riekerpolder, the windmill was moved to the Amstelpark in 1961 and represents an important testimony to Dutch heritage. Next to the windmill is a statue of Rembrandt, a tribute to the famous painter who often visited this area to draw the landscapes along the Amstel River. The Amstelpark is also an important meeting point for bird-watching enthusiasts. Thanks to its variety of habitats, the park hosts numerous bird species, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to observe and photograph a rich avifauna. The combination of ponds, meadows, and groves creates an ideal environment for many species, making the park a privileged place for bird watchers.