Hillegom: Paths by the water, flowers and local history

When looking for a hotel in Hillegom, you can assess the town based on which aspects of the destination interest you: circular routes by the water and through the town centre, bulb fields, flower experiences, local history or the De Vosse swimming pool each offer different options. The following places and activities can help you plan your stay around a particular theme.

Circular routes by the water and through the countryside

The circular route “Ommetje Bollenstreek 04 – Hillegom aan het water” leads from Hillegom’s old town centre along the harbour to the Ringvaart, through a park and past the Heemtuin. Along the way, it offers views across the meadows of the Elsbroekerpolder. By contrast, the circular route “Ommetje Bollenstreek 03 – Ommetje Oude Beek” follows the Hillegommerbeek, also known as the Oude Beek. It loops around the Zanderijpolder, passes the NS railway station and continues into Hillegom centre via Stationsweg. The routes therefore differ in their landmarks: Ommetje 04 focuses on water, the park and meadows, while Ommetje 03 follows the stream and passes through the polder on its way into the centre. Check the route information before setting out.

The bulb fields can also be explored on foot or by bicycle from Hillegom. This gives you a choice between signposted circular routes with named landmarks and exploring the fields at your own pace. If you prefer to follow a described route, the two Ommetjes offer specific landmarks; walking and cycling are listed as ways to get around the bulb fields.

Flower experiences and Landgoed De Zuilen

Landgoed De Zuilen features a 35,000 m² walking park and a terrace with Roman and Greek statues, fountains, arches and columns. The estate is at Zandlaan 18, 2181 HS Hillegom, on the border with Bennebroek. These features give the site a variety of distinct elements: the walking park is described in terms of its size, while the terrace is defined by its sculptures and architectural forms.

From 1 April to 31 May, tulips, daffodils and hyacinths take centre stage at Landgoed De Zuilen. At Annemieke’s Pluktuin in Hillegom, visitors can pick their own tulips; the approximate season runs from March to late April or mid-May. The periods overlap, but are not the same: tulip picking may begin as early as March, while the stated season at De Zuilen starts on 1 April. Check the exact seasonal dates before your visit.

Local history and orientation

The area around Kerkplein in Hillegom has been designated a municipally protected village landscape. The village pump and the adjoining courtyard tell the story of the ancestors of Hillegom’s current lord, Jan Six X. The courtyard is now used as the town hall. Hillegom is also considered the place where today’s Bollenstreek originated. These features bring together a protected part of the town, a local family history and the history of the region.

The Mindfulness Labyrinth is located in Molenduintje on Wilhelminalaan. It opened on 20 January 2025 and is associated with mindfulness and mental health. Alongside the paths, flower culture and historic sites, the local offering therefore also includes a clearly designated place focused on these themes.

Swimming at De Vosse

De Vosse swimming pool features a heated competition pool, a leisure pool and a paddling pool. The competition pool is 50 metres long; the leisure pool measures 30 by 40 metres and has a slide. Public recreational swimming is available at Sportfondsen De Vosse, which also has a slide and a high diving board. The pool dimensions and different pool types give you a clear overview of the facilities. Check opening hours and seasonal operation before you travel.

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