When we think of nature in the Netherlands, most people say: the Veluwe. But there is so much more. Also closer to home. Because yes, not everyone has the time (read: desire) to drive more than an hour. So let's start in the Randstad. We present to you: Suitelodges Gooilanden yes, right in the Gooi. Between heath, forest and water, in the most wonderful lodges.

Some are located on the water, others have a jacuzzi, but they have one thing in common: lots of outdoor space, a sleek but natural design and no concrete blocks in sight. The Loosdrechtse Plassen are really around the corner and give you that nice, relaxed holiday feeling right away.

The area is naturally known for boating, swimming, and other water sports, but here you will also find the 'Gooise Natuurreservaat', a starting point for walking and cycling routes that take you along country lanes and past country houses. Be sure to make a stop for the kids at OERRR, a nature playground where they can let off steam. Or, stop by Restaurant de Tuinman at Buitenplaats De Hoorneboeg on the weekend for a delicious lunch.

Our tip: skip the city, breathe in the fresh air and make beautiful memories outside. Because the city won't run away.

Okay, now really out of the Randstad. Sometimes that's just what you need. In the north, a different wind really blows. Yes, on to the greenest province of our country: Drenthe! There lies Park de Zeegser Duinen, in the middle of the beautiful Drentsche Aa National Park.

Here you are truly one with nature. This is one of the most unspoilt nature reserves in the Netherlands. And you should make use of it. During the day you can romp around (with or without the kids), build dams in the streams, swim, paddle board – everyone is a child again. Back home you can jump under the outdoor shower, and in the evening the fire pit is lit. If you can hold out until the night: be sure to look up. The starry sky here is amazing. No idea what you are looking at? Download the Star walk-app.

And of course: here too, plenty of fine lodges plus luxury villas for 8 people, and wow, these are really spacious and unique. With a beautiful kitchen, including a cooking island (sometimes even a wine fridge). The place for kitchen princes and princesses! But also inside everything is tip-top, not only the kitchen, but the entire interior: chef's kiss. But then outside: gigantic gardens with outdoor wellness, outdoor kitchens (yes, you can also cook outside) and large, cozy fireplaces. So, stock up on marshmallows!

There was a very nice surprise from Dutchen. Because whoever books Elements by Dutchen on Terschelling puts everything on pause. You dock and land (literally and figuratively) at Elements.

Elements is Dutchen's newest getaway. Opened in 2026, it is wonderfully small-scale and, as you have come to expect from Dutchen, every detail has been considered. The design of the apartments and spacious hotel rooms is inspired by the elements that make Terschelling so delightful: wind, sun, and sea.

Here, too, you experience a seamless transition from inside to outside. Large windows offer views of the swaying dune grass and immediately invite you to take off your shoes and run along the beach. Every detail has been considered to stimulate your senses: from high-quality wellness to relaxed Casual Fine Dining.

Want to know more? Read on here!