Aerdenhout

Anyone planning a trip to Aerdenhout can think of the area in terms of two themes: the architecture of villas and country houses, and the landscape and walking routes. The architectural history ranges from a hunting lodge dating from the early 17th century to buildings from the postwar period. If you consider in advance whether architecture or outdoor activities should be more central to your trip, you can better prioritize your own interests.

Villas, Country Houses, and Architectural History

The hunting lodge De Koekoek, also known as Brouwershuisje, dates from the early 17th century and is located on the Koekoeksduin estate in Aerdenhout. Boekenrode is a stately country house with a wooden entrance and a tea house from the late 18th century. De Olifant is a low-rise residence from the 18th century with a straight cornice. The examples each have a different emphasis: the hunting lodge is notable for its early date, Boekenrode for its country house and tea house, and De Olifant for its low form and clean upper finish.

Villa Looyen was built in Aerdenhout between 1948 and 1950, to a design by the architect ir. B. Bijvoet. The Adventskerk was also built to an architect’s design: K.L. Sijmons designed the church, which was built in 1957/58. Both buildings were inspired by Le Corbusier: Villa Looyen by his villas, and the Adventskerk by his work. Their design features differ: Bijvoet used glass blocks in Villa Looyen, while the Adventskerk is distinguished by rough materials such as concrete and untreated wood. The garden and terrace around Villa Looyen were laid out by landscape architect Mien Ruys. The villa is considered a significant example of early postwar reconstruction architecture from 1940 onward.

De Kroft was built in 1917/18 by architect J.P. Smits as a home and workplace for himself and his family. The house was designed in the style of late-19th-century English country houses, particularly the work of R.N. Shaw and Sir E.L. Lutyens. It lies on the eastern edge of the Oosterduin villa park, where the beach-ridge landscape gives way to the beach plain landscape. Aerdenhoutspark offers another point of reference in time: it is Aerdenhout’s oldest villa district and was laid out from 1899 onward.

Naaldenveld and Outdoor Routes

Naaldenveld in Aerdenhout is a rugged inland dune managed by Landschap Noord-Holland. For trip planning, this landscape theme offers a different focus from the architectural history of the villas and country houses. The Rondje Aerdenhout (purple) walking route starts at Heemstede-Aerdenhout station and is easily accessible by public transport. Its name, color, and starting point offer clear guidance if you want to include a walking route in your plans.

North of Aerdenhout is Buitenplaats Elswout, with three marked walking trails. Further afield, the Haarlemroute passes through the three connected estates of Woestduin, Vinkenduin, and Leyduin. You can distinguish these routes by their respective starting points and courses: the Haarlemroute passes through the named estates, while Rondje Aerdenhout starts at Heemstede-Aerdenhout station.

There is also a specific point of reference for trips with a dog: designated off-leash areas are available in Aerdenhout. These include a footpath between Van Vollenhovenlaan and Leeuwerikenlaan, a wood between Juliana van Stolberglaan and Bentveldseweg, and Mr. H. Enschedépark. There is also a StationsHuiskamer at Heemstede-Aerdenhout station, with facilities for passengers where travelers can wait.

Match Your Interests to Your Hotel Search

Consider which of these themes you want your trip to focus on, and take your personal requirements into account when comparing options.

Discover more destinations: Bloemendaal, Vogelenzang, Overveen.

Go to the main travel overview: Bloemendaal.