Omnium sport, recreation, pool

Omnium is the sports and leisure complex of Goes, the main town of Zuid-Beveland in the province of Zeeland. Its best-known part is the swimming pool area, which offers several pools, water slides and play zones for families, as well as lanes for people who want to swim laps. The complex also houses sports halls and fitness facilities, and it works as a social centre for the local community, but for visitors the pools are the main reason to come.

Indoor pool complexes with play features are an important part of the Dutch leisure landscape. In a country where the weather can be unpredictable, a warm pool with slides is a reliable family outing, and many towns have one. A leisure pool of this kind normally has a lap pool for sporty swimmers, a shallow area with fountains and toys for toddlers, a wave or current pool, and one or more slides for older children. A whirlpool or sauna may be available for adults who want to relax, and a cafe overlooks the water.

Some leisure pools have a tropical-style zone with plants and humid warmth, so check the operator's website for any themed areas. Planning is wise because public swimming hours, lane swimming times and lesson schedules vary through the week, and clubs and school groups use the pools at certain times. Prices and opening hours change, so look up the current timetable, and consider booking online during school holidays when queues can build.

Goes offers other things to do on the same day. The Maria Magdalenakerk dominates the market square, the Stadshaven is a pleasant harbour for a stroll, and the Stoomtrein Goes-Borsele, a heritage steam railway, runs on selected days. The surrounding island is a landscape of orchards, polders and dikes, with cycling routes and beaches within reach, and the Oosterschelde coast is a short ride away.

The pool suits families with children, swimmers and anyone looking for a rainy-day activity. Bring a swimsuit, towel and a coin or token for the lockers, and be aware of the rules about hygiene, such as showering before entering the water. Younger children should be supervised at all times.