HAPPENING SUMMER 2024 | Diergaarde Blijdorp introduces new summer activities, offering visitors a variety of events and new animal exhibits. The zoo aims to entertain and educate guests of all ages throughout the summer holidays.

New summer activities at Diergaarde Blijdorp

As the summer holidays approach, Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam has prepared an array of activities for visitors. The zoo is set to welcome guests with new animal exhibits and a series of events designed to provide entertainment and education for all ages.

Summer in Blijdorp

This summer, Diergaarde Blijdorp will feature numerous activities. Highlights include the arrival of new tigers, a pregnant lioness, the birth of an okapi, and the opening of the African Jungle Aviary. Visitors are invited to explore these new attractions and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the zoo.

Summer evenings

On 3, 10, 17, and 24 August, Blijdorp will extend its opening hours until 21:00 for Summer Evenings (ZOOmeravonden). Guests can enjoy live music on various terraces while sampling food and drinks.

Summer terrace

During the Open Monument Weekend on 13 September, Diergaarde Blijdorp will transform the forecourt of the Rivièrahal into a Summer Terrace (ZOOmerterras). This event will feature live music, dance, and a variety of refreshments. The terrace will open at 18:00, and entry is free.

Rotterdam Zoo summer terrace in 2022

Life-sized Playmobil

Until 1 September, the zoo will host life-sized Playmobil figures. Children, and adults alike, can enjoy a route through the zoo with an activity booklet available at the entrance. Participants can also join a treasure hunt for a chance to meet a zookeeper.

After exploring the zoo or completing the treasure hunt, visitors can relax at the Summer Square (ZOOmerplein) from 3 August. Located near the flamingos and geladas, this area offers summer treats and special drinks arrangements.

Directions to Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp)

Diergaarde Blijdorp is situated in the northern part of Rotterdam. The zoo is easily accessible by public transport, with trams and buses stopping nearby. For those travelling by car, parking is available on-site. The area around the zoo includes the Vroesenpark, a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

ROTTERDAM, 30 May 2024 – Mindful cycling routes have been introduced to promote mental health in and around Rotterdam. Launched by Swapfiets, these routes aim to provide a calming escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Mindful cycling routes introduced in Rotterdam

Swapfiets has launched specially curated cycling routes in and around Rotterdam. These routes have been introduced on World Bicycle Day and the start of Mental Health Week, aiming to highlight the benefits of cycling for mental well-being. Nearly half (48%) of Dutch adults have experienced one or more psychological disorders in their lifetime. By cycling more often, escaping the city's hustle, and heading towards greenery, individuals can not only strengthen their immune systems but also reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol. The routes (scroll down on this page to see them), are available on Google Maps and in the newly launched Toertje cycling app, and include tips and hotspots to help clear the mind along the way.

The benefits of cycling in nature

Cycling through a bustling city with crowded bike paths can be stressful. According to the Centre for Urban Mental Health, mental health issues increase with urbanisation, with 50% urbanisation linked to a rise in mental health problems. Moreover, in 2022, one in four workers aged 18 to 35 reported experiencing burnout symptoms. It is essential to seek relaxation and clear the mind occasionally. Regular cycling, such as commuting by bike, has been shown to reduce the need for medications for depression and anxiety. Combining this activity with a natural environment can further enhance these benefits.

"Cities are fantastic, but it is even more important that people feel good in them. Exercise is healthy, and cycling in nature is even better, as it helps reduce stress. Therefore, we invite everyone to cycle more often and consider their mental health," said Suzanne Berings, General Manager of Swapfiets Netherlands.

Discover 40,000 km of Dutch cycling paths

Three cycling routes start at the Swapfiets store in central Rotterdam and lead to vibrant greenery in city parks, remote spots for meditation, perfect places for a morning swim, and beautiful vistas in the surrounding countryside. Swapfiets provides useful tips for relaxation and includes dining hotspots along the routes, such as Het Zalmhuis in Capelle aan den IJssel and Bospaviljoen De Eekhoorn.

Thijs Zonneveld, Toertje ambassador and Beat Cycling Club rider, stated, "There is no better way to clear your mind than cycling in nature. We can only applaud this initiative by Swapfiets with its green cycling routes."

Marco te Brömmelstroet, Toertje ambassador and 'bicycle professor', added, "For more liveable cities, cycling is crucial. For our health and well-being, we should all leave the car more often and give more space to the bicycle. Cycling into nature is always a good idea."

The routes are available on Swapfiets.nl from 31 May and in the recently launched Toertje cycling app, an initiative of the Fietsersbond, BAM Infra Nederland, and CanvasHeroes. Toertje aims to make cycling easier and more enjoyable: find routes, discover nature, embark on adventures, and leave the car behind more often.

Cycling routes in and around Rotterdam

Route: A dive into the Kralingse Plas

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 8.6 km
View this route on Google Maps

Just a fifteen-minute bike ride from the centre of Rotterdam, you'll find Het Kralingse Bos. This is the largest forest in Rotterdam, located around the Kralingse Plas. You can cycle into this urban jungle via Park Rozenburg. There are many activities you can do in this natural area. This route takes you past a well-kept secret in this forest: the Heemtuin. You'll find this unique piece of nature behind the beach bath. Get off your bike and walk over the water via a narrow wooden plank. Here, you have a remarkable view over a peat bog. Bet you'll feel at peace here? You can also find fish ladders here where you can see young fish swimming.

Next, you can make a stop at BeachHouse Kralingen. This is a simple spot with wooden picnic benches at the front. What might be even more fun: bring your own picnic basket or a small BBQ. In Het Kralingse Bos, you can light a BBQ in certain spots by the water. This is indicated on the signs. A BBQ combined with a dip in the lake might just be the perfect summer day or evening. Via the Boezem, this route takes you back to the city.

Route: The mindful mills of Kinderdijk

Duration: 2 hours and 28 minutes
Distance: 41 km
View this route on Google Maps

On to a unique part of the Netherlands: Kinderdijk. Up for a good ride to the iconic windmills? This bike ride takes you along the water of the Nieuwe Maas and the city park Oude Plantage. If you fancy a spectacular lunch, pedal a bit further to Capelle aan den IJssel. At Het Zalmhuis, they serve the best bowls, bagels, and sushi. The route continues all along the water and through Krimpen aan den IJssel until you dive into the polder landscape of Krimpenerhout. A flat landscape with water as far as you can see. Cycling through this quintessentially Dutch piece of nature, you arrive at the place you undertook this journey for: Kinderdijk. Note that you need to take the ferry at Krimpen aan de Lek to cross over.

Kinderdijk is on the UNESCO World Heritage list because of its windmills, dikes, and pumping stations. A unique piece of Dutch history. Wandered around enough here? Then cycle on through Alblasserdam until you can cross the bridge towards Ridderkerk. Follow the road towards the Ringdijk, and from here, the way back to Rotterdam begins. You'll cycle through Donckse Bos and pass by an estate where you can see the sculpture Hercules and Antaeus. Via Van Brienenoordbrug, you cycle back along the water to the centre.

Route: The river-rich Rotte route via Hillegersberg

Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Distance: 23.4 km
View this route on Google Maps

Discover the Rotte, the ancient peat river that Rotterdam is blessed with. In fifteen minutes of cycling, you escape the city and see so much water and greenery around you that it leaves you speechless. You have arrived at the Bergse Voorplas. Stay on the route along the De Rotte stream, and you will come across the most beautiful windmills.

Your path continues from the Lage Bergse Bos to the Hoge Bergse Bos, full of perfect spots to clear your mind. Find a quiet place for forest bathing. This word comes from the Japanese shinrin yoku, which means ‘luxuriant stay under the trees.’ Here, you can do the 4-7-8 breathing technique, also called the “relaxing breath.” How do you do it? It can be done standing or sitting, with your eyes open or closed. Breathe in very calmly through your nose for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 7 seconds and then exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat this breathing a few times, and you’ll soon feel the calming effect.

Then, relaxed but energised, you jump back on your bike to find your way back to the centre of Rotterdam. To return completely satisfied, a visit to Bospaviljoen De Eekhoorn or Pannekoekhuis De Nachtegaal by the Kralingse Plas is the perfect ending.

Discover top spots for winter sports around Rotterdam, including year-round indoor skiing and snowboarding, plus seasonal ice skating events.

Whether you are a skiing novice or an experienced snowboarder, the area around Rotterdam offers a plethora of options to enjoy winter sports. From the extensive facilities at SnowWorld Zoetermeer and De Uithof in The Hague to the local charm of Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam and Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn, there's something for everyone. Plus, with Schaatsbaan Rotterdam and the Ijsvrij Festival, the city transforms into a winter paradise, providing plenty of opportunities for fun and recreation. So, gear up and hit the slopes or the rink this winter!

SnowWorld Zoetermeer: the ultimate indoor ski destination

SnowWorld Zoetermeer is a prime spot for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, featuring four slopes and the steepest indoor slope in Europe. With temperatures inside kept at a brisk -5°C, you can experience perfect snow conditions year-round. SnowWorld offers lessons for all levels, with over 300 certified instructors providing around 148,000 hours of lessons annually. Whether you're a beginner looking for trial lessons or an experienced skier seeking to refine your skills, SnowWorld has a course for you.

De Uithof, The Hague: a multifunctional sports centre

De Uithof in The Hague is another excellent destination, boasting facilities for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more. The centre features a 211-metre ski slope with real snow, ensuring a realistic skiing experience. De Uithof also offers a range of lessons, from beginners to advanced levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the slopes safely and confidently.

Ski and snowboard schools

Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam

Located conveniently within Rotterdam, Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam is ideal for those looking to take lessons without travelling far. The centre provides a range of courses for both skiing and snowboarding, catering to all ages and skill levels. With its modern facilities and experienced instructors, it's a great place to start your winter sports journey.

Alpine Sports, Den Hoorn

Just a short drive from Rotterdam, Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn offers a variety of training programs for skiing and snowboarding. Known for its friendly atmosphere and expert instructors, Alpine Sports is perfect for those who prefer a more personalised approach to learning. They provide individual lessons as well as group courses, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs.

Ice skating in Rotterdam: seasonal highlights

For ice skating enthusiasts, Schaatsbaan Rotterdam is a must-visit during the winter months. The rink opens annually from December to February, providing a festive atmosphere with various skating events and activities. It's a fantastic place for families, friends, and even solo skaters to enjoy a day out on the ice.

The Ijsvrij Festival in Rotterdam is another highlight of the winter season. This festival combines ice skating with cultural events, food stalls, and live music, creating a vibrant winter wonderland. It typically takes place during the holiday season, offering a unique way to celebrate the festive period in the heart of Rotterdam.

For more detailed information on ice skating locations, prices, and events, check out our article on ice skating in Rotterdam.

ROTTERDAM, 7 May 2024 – The world's first urban surf pool in Rotterdam will open its waves to surfers this summer, offering a new way to experience the water. Preparations for the RiF010 surf pool are almost complete, with tests and fine-tuning already underway.

Rotterdam welcomes urban surf pool

The RiF010 surf pool is set to become a new landmark in Rotterdam, with waves rolling through the Steigersgracht. The project, which began construction in late 2022, has made significant progress with the concrete basin now filled and the wave machine connected. By the beginning of July, surfers will enjoy the first urban surf pool globally, featuring two designated spots: 'the Bay' for beginners and 'the Reef' for more experienced surfers. Surfing sessions will be available with varying wave heights to cater for all skill levels.

Testing phase underway

Testing of the wave installation began after Ascension Day, and final adjustments are being made to ensure the waves match their computer simulations. SurfLoch's Erik van Ettinger, who designed the reef where the waves will break, expressed optimism that the system will work as intended. Sensors strategically placed within the basin measure wave height and performance, allowing the team to refine the system.

Sustainable and social initiatives

Sustainability is a key focus for the RiF010 surf pool. The facility operates on renewable electricity, and water is filtered using energy-efficient micro-sieves. The beach house, constructed on the Vlasmarkt, houses a surf shop and a surf bar/restaurant that overlooks the waves, providing a relaxed environment for surfers and spectators alike. The RiF010 Foundation aims to introduce Rotterdam schoolchildren to surfing and water sports via school activities, while also making the sport accessible to all ages.

Official opening in July

The RiF010 surf pool will officially open on 6 July 2024, marked by an international surfing competition, the Rotterdam Surf Open. Surf enthusiasts and visitors can look forward to seeing the best Dutch and international surfers in action.

Location and directions

RiF010 surf pool is situated at Vlasmarkt 1, adjacent to the Markthal and easily accessible by public transport or car. The surrounding area, known for its vibrant market, architecture, and lively atmosphere, provides an ideal backdrop for the new facility.