8x best places in the Netherlands for swimming in nature

This is a hidden gem around the corner from me, in the Gooi and Vecht region. Spiegelplas has something for every water lover. In some places, the lake, created by peat and sand extraction, is about 45 metres deep. Its clarity and the crazy objects on the bottom make it popular with divers. But for a cooling dip from one of the jetties or idyllic beaches, this is also the place to be. A lap around the lake is 10km with swampy forests on one side and a clear blue lake on the other.

When summer arrives, the canal near the Groningen village of Aduarderzijl is the place to be. The water of the Reitdiep is perfect for a cooling dip. And if you are a bit adventurous, jump into the water from the characteristic sluice. No need to, paddling is of course also allowed.

Europe's largest saltwater lake can be found between the islands of Goeree-Overflakkee and Schouwen-Duivenland: Lake Grevelingen. With the construction of the Brewer Dam, this former estuary was closed off from the North Sea. The salinity in the lake is maintained because of the seawater that enters Lake Grevelingen through the passage sluice. The water in the lake is crystal clear. A valhalla for water sports enthusiasts, divers and lovers of swimming in natural waters. If you watch carefully, you might even see a seal swimming by.

In the city triangle of Deventer, Apeldoorn and Zutphen you will find recreation area Bussloo. A natural lake with surprisingly clear water. With a circumference of over 8 kilometres, you can swim quite a bit. Or relax on one of the six surrounding beaches.

Perhaps not hidden gems for the people of Drenthe themselves, but for me it certainly was: at recreation site 't Nije Hemelriek you can swim in nature. Here you experience the feeling of being abroad in the middle of Drenthe. The lake is clear blue, the sand is white and around the lake a beautiful forest unfolds where you can take lovely walks.

Hidden between the ancient forests of the Veluwe you will find the Zandenplas, a large natural pool surrounded by white beaches and stately trees. An ideal place to rest after a brisk walk in the Veluwe. And here - unlike many other places - you are allowed to bbq. As the sun sinks behind the trees and the corn cobs blacken, toast balmy summer evenings in the middle of nature.

Recreational lake Henschotermeer is located in the middle of the forests on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, already one of my favourite places in the Netherlands. A lovely place to cool down on relaxing summer days. With the surrounding white sandy beach, this feels more like a holiday, and at dusk, you slide onto the terrace of the Oude Strandhuis. Sunset, live music and a fresh smoothie or beer. I say do it!

Finally, we have the recreation area De Bernisse on Voorne-Putten as a tip for swimming in nature. This is the habitat of many bird species. Get in your canoe, jump on your sup board and explore this unique recreation area while whispering so as not to disturb the animals. This is an area full of forests, wetlands, lakes and ponds. Recreational area De Bernisse is no less than seven kilometres long. Throughout the area you will find several beaches and jetties. Motorboats are not allowed. So it is nice and quiet swimming water.

Do you have any tips that should not be missing from this list of most beautiful swimming spots in Dutch nature? Tip them to us via Instagram!

Love,
Yalou & Laura