Park de Maas

Park de Maas refers to the recreation area around the Maasplassen, a large complex of lakes beside the Maas river in Limburg, near Roermond. The lakes were created by gravel and sand extraction, which left a series of deep pits that filled with water, and they were then developed for leisure and nature. Together they form one of the biggest areas of open water in the Netherlands and are a popular destination for swimming, sailing and watersports, in a landscape that crosses the border with Belgian Limburg.

The water is the main attraction. The wide, open lakes catch the wind, and this makes them excellent for windsurfing and kitesurfing, as well as sailing and stand-up paddleboarding, and in summer the surface is busy with boats of all kinds. Several beaches with sand and shallow water have been laid out along the shore, with designated swimming areas, so that families can swim, sunbathe and play, and picnic areas and waterside parks offer green space for children. The atmosphere is that of a seaside resort in the middle of the country, with beach pavilions and terraces in season. Visitors who want to rent boats or take lessons will find operators at the main marinas.

Access is easy, and parking is free at several points, among them a car park near the Maasstraat. The area is busiest in July and August, especially on warm weekends, so come early or choose a weekday if you want space. There are no entrance fees for the public parks and beaches, though some facilities have their own opening hours and charges. Cycling is a good way to see the lakes, with routes along the shores and connecting to the Maas valley, and walkers can follow paths past reed beds, where birds such as grebes and herons can be seen.

Roermond itself has attractions that complement a day at the water. The old centre has the Munsterkerk, the cathedral of Saint Christopher, the Markt and the Stadhuis, and the city is the birthplace of the architect Pierre Cuypers, who designed the Rijksmuseum. A large designer outlet centre draws shoppers from across the region. The wider Maas valley has nature reserves, small villages and the hills of Limburg to the south.

The lakes suit families, water sports fans, cyclists and anyone who likes to be beside water. Bring sunscreen, beach gear and a windbreaker, since the wind can be strong even on warm days, and take note of local rules on swimming areas and boating.