It's the middle of summer - read: vacation time! - and then there is nothing better than going out with your children or nephews and nieces. Cool off in the Wantijbad, go on an adventure in the Elzen, visit Weizigt or enjoy the best nature activities in and around the Biesbosch Center.
Cozy up with the kids this summer!
Experience summer at Weizigt
Animal lovers and nature lovers beware! This summer there is lots to do at Weizigt. Come cuddle with the animals at the City Farm and learn all about the fascinating life of bees in the Apiary. In the vegetable garden and the Climate Greenhouse you can see how vegetables and herbs grow and in the pond near the Aquarama you might even find a salamander! For the youngest visitors there is the renewed water discovery area where you can play with water and sand. Weizigt regularly holds educational activities. For example the 'Animal Quarter' where in fifteen minutes you learn everything about an animal at the City Farm. Or join us for an informative walk through the Gardens. For parents with young children this summer there is 'Waking up at Weizigt' and the Toppie Mini-Inloop. Weizigt's grounds are open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., so that's going to be a lot of fun this summer!
On an adventure in Speelbos de Elzen
In the Hollandse Biesbosch lies Speelbos de Elzen. Here young and old can enjoy being active in the green. The theme of water plays a big role in the play forest, which comes in handy when temperatures rise this summer. Be active and cool off at the same time! Together with your child, try the swing and scramble rope across one of the creeks, balance on the stepping stones or splash around at the water pump. But even if your children prefer not to get wet, they can still play here. Stimulate their senses on the sensory path, get moving on one of the play and sports equipment or climb an old-fashioned tree with your little ones. There are benches and picnic tables available in Alder, so taking a break between romps is extra cozy.
Cooling off in the Wantijbad ...
The Wantijbad is a really nice place to be this summer. There is a 50-meter pool for bandits, a sunbathing area for sunbathing, a slide and diving board. So there is something for everyone at this outdoor pool! For track swimmers who faithfully make their meters, but also families who are looking for a day to cool down. During the summer there are various extra activities. The Wantijbad has been an important part of the Dordrecht community since it opened in 1936. It is not only a place for sports and relaxation, but it is also a social meeting place for young and old. Come discover it for yourself this summer!
... and at The Mushroom
Also fun: visit the splash pool in Wantijpark, De Paddenstoel. Whether it is open depends on the weather. The temperature must be at least 22 degrees or higher and the weather must be open and dry. You can check if it is open via the WhatsApp channel of the Municipality of Dordrecht. And if it is, enjoy it to your heart's content with your children!
Celebrate summer in the Biesbosch
In and around the Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht there is plenty to experience this summer. From the BeverBos and picnicking to renting a canoe, boat or sup. And how about the barefoot trail or a scavenger hunt on the Griend Museum Trail? The summer vacations are just around the corner and what could be more fun than exploring nature with the whole family? The Biesbosch Center offers lots of fun activities especially for children.
There is something fun for everyone to do this summer in and around the Biesbosch.
The Beaver Forest: on a Beaver Safari
For example, there is the Beaver Forest. Go on a real beaver safari! Right next to the visitor center is the BeverBos, where you and your children can discover how beavers live. Do you really want to explore? With the help of the treasure hunt through the BeverBos you and your children can learn a lot about these big beavers! Take a look inside a recreated beaver lodge, watch for beaver tracks from the observation tower and let your children build their own beaver lodge. If they finish all the tasks then they can call themselves real beaver scouts. The Beaver Scavenger Hunt is on sale in the Green Shop for €1.50.
Scavenger hunt Griendmusepad: crossing with Zonnepont 7
Also fun: take Zonnepont 7 to a nature island, here you go independently with the treasure hunt booklet. Along the way you will discover all kinds of facts about the Biesbosch. The scavenger hunt booklet is for sale in the Groenwinkel for €1.
Adventure on the water and in nature
Canoeing, supping and whisper boats
For a real adventure, take the whole family out on the water. Canoes, supps and whisper boats are available for rent at the Biesbosch Center. Sail through narrow creeks and discover nature from the water. A unique experience, which can also provide the necessary coolness this summer.
Barefoot trail: feel nature
For a special experience, there is the barefoot path. Here children can explore different natural surfaces barefoot. A fun way to really feel nature, this is an ideal activity to explore this summer.
Another tip for the adventurous kids: go climbing and scrambling in the climbing forest!
Picnicking: time for some goodies
After all that adventure, it's time for relaxation. In the Biesboschnature, there are plenty of great places to enjoy a delicious picnic. Find a quiet spot by the water, spread out your rug under the trees or use one of the picnic tables along the hiking trails. Don't forget to bring your binoculars or camera, because with any luck you'll see a beaver swimming by or an osprey flying overhead!
