SUITSUIT RECOMMENDS | 10 SPRING GETAWAYS

Spring is here! The days are getting longer, flowers are starting to blossom, and the sun shows itself more often. Despite the days still being cold at times, we are eager to celebrate the new season. Are you planning a spring trip but need some inspiration? Or are you ready to do something different than the familiar spring cleaning? Keep reading!

1. STARGAZING

There is nothing like dreaming away at twinkling starry skies and bright planets. The spectacles of light have never been as vivid as in an observatory! There are several beautiful observatories in the Netherlands, such as Sterrenwacht Sonnenborgh in Utrecht or Sterrenwacht Tivoli in Oudenbosch. Visit a Sterrenwacht and experience a starry evening.

2. A CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE

In the mood for an atmospheric and unique film evening? Accessible gems are hidden all over the Netherlands. Consider Studio/K in Amsterdam, a film house run entirely by students. Thanks to its monthly changing theme, with accompanying feature films and inspiring documentaries, there is something for everyone. Or visit Cinema The Movies in Dordrecht's historic city centre. Its atmospheric and authentic halls are the perfect setting to fully immerse yourself in beautiful films. From arthouse to public cinema. The films that run there are carefully chosen, with the condition that each film shown is produced  from creative urge rather than profit.

3. WALK FROM STATION TO STATION

A sunny day calls for a fresh outdoor walk. Have you had enough of the park in your own area and want to explore another nature park or city? Walk kilometres via one of the dozens of station walks. From ancient forts for history buffs to a breath of fresh air in the dunes. Or would you rather make your way through old city centres to a beautiful country estate? Choose your own path and decide on the location and the number of kilometres!

4. SWAP YOUR CLOTHES

Spring cleaning but make it fun! Dare to take a critical look at your wardrobe and organise a clothing swap. You might be able to make a friend happy with that one blouse that is collecting dust. Gather your friends, clothes, and some snacks and drinks. It’s a lot of fun , good for your bank account, and better for the environment. 

5. 30 MINUTES OF BEAUTIFUL SOUNDS

Dream away for half an hour to the most compelling sounds at a lunch concert. The image of classical music is becoming less old-fashioned thanks to the increasing accessibility of (classical) concerts. Thus, several theatres scattered throughout the Netherlands organise free lunch concerts. Attend a rehearsal or enjoy a chamber concert at The Royal Concertgebouw, in Amsterdam or De Doelen, in Rotterdam. Important to note; it is often necessary to book a ticket online in advance.

6. GET A BREATH OF FRESH AIR AND RECHARGE

A day at the seaside, in this cold? Yes! You avoid a lot of parking problems thanks to the peace and quiet and you often park for free. That peace and quiet and the fresh air are also extremely good for your mental and physical well-being. You will be amazed at how empty the beach is when KNMI does not promise summer beach weather. All the space you need to let your thoughts run wild and get back in the car or train inspired and recharged. Another advantage: hot chocolate with whipped cream tastes exceptionally good after a day of fresh air.

7. A BAKER FOR A DAY

Valentine's Day has passed, but you can spread love anywhere and at any time! A nice spring day is the perfect time to bring out the baker in you. Bake a supply of biscuits, cakes, or pies and pack them in a pretty (biscuit) tin or greaseproof paper bags. Surprise one or more of your friends and let them taste the love you put into your baking. You can find plenty of spring recipes online, with sweet honey or fresh and sour lemon curd, for example. Delicious!

8. EXPERIENCE TROPICAL ATMOSPHERES

The ideal outing when you want to imagine yourself in tropical spheres: a butterfly farm. This is also great for a rainy spring day, since you are indoors - but still outdoors! Before summer starts, see the most wonderful butterflies such as the paper or owl butterfly. These farms feel like a holiday day in the tropics.

9. STROLLING THROUGH CASTLE GARDENS

Good news for explorers of beautiful domestic places: next spring, most castles and castle gardens will open their gates to the public. Wander around the gardens of Paleis Het Loo near Apeldoorn, full of impressive fountains and beautiful greenery. Or discover the large park of no less than 55 hectares at Kasteel de Haar. The surrounding (rose) gardens are good for hours of walking fun or an  exciting photo shoot with your friends. Enjoy bright green lawns, raked paths and trees gently beginning to bloom.

10. PICKING DELICACIES

An absolute must for any seafood lover: oyster picking. As long as there is an 'R' in the month and it is low tide, you can pick oysters in various places in the Netherlands. Head to Zeeland, Texel or Groningen and pick them at the edge of the elongated dykes. Tip: put on (rain) boots and sturdy gloves and take a hammer and flat screwdriver with you. Often the oysters are stuck to or under stones. Picking is free, but there is a limit: don't pick more than 10kg per person. Read more about it in the blog we wrote earlier!