Playgrounds

Renesse is a seaside village on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland in Zeeland, and it is one of the most popular family holiday spots on the Dutch coast. The playgrounds belong to that picture: rather than one named attraction, they are a scattering of play areas across the village, in residential streets, small parks and near the beach, which together make the place easy for parents with young children. The details differ from one spot to the next.

The outdoor playgrounds follow the usual Dutch pattern. Most have climbing frames, swings, slides and sandpits, often set in a patch of grass with a bench or two, and they are generally free and open all year. Those near the beach are the busiest in summer, since children can move easily between the sand and the play equipment, and parents can keep an eye on them while sitting in the sun. A few are fenced for the youngest children, and larger ones add balance beams, zip lines and spinning seats for older ones. Standards of upkeep are usually high, but it is sensible to check equipment before letting small children loose.

For days when the weather is poor, indoor play centres give an alternative. Funhouse Renesse is the name that comes up for indoor play, with soft-play zones, ball pits and games, and it is the kind of place where children can burn off energy while parents have a coffee. Indoor centres normally charge an admission fee, and prices, age limits and opening hours change with the season, so check ahead. Wellness centres, which are also a feature of the area, offer a different kind of rainy-day option for the adults.

The setting is the real attraction. Renesse Beach is a wide stretch of sand backed by high dunes, with beach pavilions, shallow water and space for sandcastles, kites and long walks. The surrounding island has forests, dunes and polders, and it is easy to explore by bicycle, with flat paths linking the villages. Zierikzee, the historic town with its old harbour and gates, is a short ride away, and the Oosterschelde National Park and the long Brouwersdam are close for those who want to explore further. In summer the village is lively, with terraces, ice cream stalls and events in the main street.

The playgrounds suit families with children from toddlers to early teens. Come in the morning in high season, when the beach and the play areas are quieter, and pack sun protection and a towel for the sand.