Vondelpark and WG-terrein walk

2.2 miles/ 3.5 kilometres

An uplifting spring walk if ever there was. Lots of welcome spring charm, daffodils, and cherry blossom. Am beginning to sound like Dana now but this walk really is wonderful on a sunny day. From the Leidseplein, you'll roam through the Helmer district and back via the Vondelpark. It's a walk of discovery leading you along interesting residential streets and through the ‘WG terrein’ which was once the site, both grounds and buildings, of the ‘Wilhemina Gasthuis’ (Hospital). The hospital buildings are nearly 100 years old and the atmosphere is secluded and interesting. Bursting with cherry colour in spring if you catch it in the right week.

Vondelpark and WG-terrein Walk (follow link to see in Google maps)

You can head back through the Vondelpark or you can leave the park and rejoin it later. The streets bordering the park have some lovely buildings so that's worth it too.

Near the Leidseplein, you'll traverse what's known as the Leidse Bosjes (little Leidse woods) be sure to admire the magnificent plane trees. One of these plane trees has a famous sculpture on one of its boughs – a little woodcutter sawing – this sculpture just appeared, artist unknown.

Where to stop and sup

• WG Café – Marius van Bouwdijk Bastiaansestraat 52

  Open daily from about 11.30 til late
  Gorgeous situation especially if it's warm enough to sit outside, nicely secluded from the din of traffic. Good for coffee/tea or lunch, but open for drinks and dinner too.

• De Roos – Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat (aka P.C.Hooftstraat)

  Open daily 8.30 – 22.00
  Get yourself some sustenance here on the edge of the park. They've lovely sandwiches, soup etc. and you go and order inside, they serve you there at the bar and you pay immediately which is very handy.

There are plenty more places in the park or in surrounding streets.