Wandelnetwerk Noord-Holland

We should be glad that the municipality of Heemstede bought Wandelbos Groenendaal in 1913 when excavation for bulb cultivation was imminent. It’s a combination of several estates and homesteads from the 17th and 18th centuries. This collection of the Hope banking family once reached from the Haarlemmermeer to the Leidse Trekvaart. Tree avenues were planted and water features and fountains were built. When a windmill was no longer sufficient for water management in the 'garden', they ordered the first steam engine manufactured in the Netherlands (1781). The folly on the raised hill provided a lovely view. Great artists such as Rembrandt and Ruisdael also portrayed this panoramic view in etchings, drawings and paintings.

• The Bosbeek Route (blue) in Heemstede leads to the Bosbeek country estate, the one-time main house of Groenendaal for the Hope family. It has housed a care centre since 1950. The name of Meerzicht (lake view) country estate refers to the nearby Haarlemmermeer at the time. The route follows the former bank of the lake.
• The Heksen Route (purple) in Heemstede meanders towards the wooded hill of Heksenheuvel. When the forest is closed after sunset, it’s time to dance. Short detours from the route offer the opportunity to visit the petting zoo or the Belvederèberg.
• The Groenendaal Route (black) in Heemstede explores the corners of the Groenendaal walking forest. Dogs are not allowed on this route.

The Country Estate Path (green-yellow) between Heemstede, Vogelenzang and Bennebroek is included in the network, go to www.landschapnoordholland.nl.

There are also yellow, red and blue posted routes.