Hofvijver Island The Hague – Our tiny uninhabited island
The oldest (and most beautiful!) part of The Hague are the buildings on the Binnenhof, with the houses of parliament. Right next to it is a body of water, the Hofvijver (royal pond). It’s actually not a pond, but an old dune lake that existed even before the city was build. During the year, the pond is sometimes used for events. The big fireworks on New Year’s Eve take place here, and in spring there’s even a (very short distance) rowing match on the water!
For me, the most fascinating part of the pond is the island in the middle. It's a tiny overgrown piece of land that has been there for centuries. Rumor has it that years ago soft drugs enthusiasts catapulted seed bombs onto the island, so that weed plants would grow on it.
Although it’s not allowed to visit the island, it has been occupied a number of times. Right behind the island you can see a small tower that houses the offices of the Prime Minister. Needless to say that the best way to demonstrate is to occupy the island!
I myself have been so lucky to visit the island a couple of times. A few years ago the Hofvijver froze over and was turned into a skating rink. We all went to the island to put on our skates. Afterwards you could still see a pair of skates hanging in a tree on the island. Too late to retrieve them after the ice was gone!
About this spot
Buitenhof
- 24 hours daily
€
free
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in The Hague
De Blinkerd – A refreshing dive
I find the swimming pool De Blinkerd one of the most relaxing places in The Hague and the building is interesting as well as it is a dome.
By
Marit
Kruisdijk
Koningsplein – A beautiful square
All around Koningsplein are houses built in the neo-renaissance style typical for the area, beautifully maintained with their front doors in bright colors.
By
Karoline
Welton
Het Balihuisje – 'Concept' cafe in trendy 'hood
"Het Balihuisje" is The Hague's attempt to keep up with the 21st-century version of urban chic. It aspires to be a hub of creativity as well as a cafe!
By
Adam
Frick
Café Blossom – Cosy neighborhood spot
Café Blossom is a lovely spot for breakfast, coffee and lunch. They offer interesting menu items for breakfast and lunch, like açaí bowls and pancakes.
By
Marit
Kruisdijk
Jamey Bennett – Experience shared dining
When you order the dishes you like to share, they put the dishes in the order that will give you the best experience. The food is amazing and so inspiring!
By
Marit
Kruisdijk
Pompernikkel – From breakfast to bakery
Pompernikkel is where you walk past in the mornings, spontaneously grab a coffee, devour an artisanal pastry, and bump into your neighbours.
By
Karoline
Welton
Gallerij Prins Willem V – Discover art in The Hague
With my Museumkaart, I discovered Gallerij Prins Willem V in The Hague. It showcases 17th-century art in a magical, quiet atmosphere.
By
Marit
Kruisdijk
Achtung! Lady – Second hand shopping
At Achtung! Lady. the atmosphere is calm, the staff are relaxed yet always happy to help and the items you can score there are always of great quality.
By
Karoline
Welton
Emma's Hof – A little slice of (green) heaven
Emma’s Hof has a free library, a playground for kids, lots of benches and sunchairs, an abundance of flowers and herbs, and more and more birds...
By
Karoline
Welton
Uitkijktoren Binnenhof – Dutch politics from above
There is no elevator, so you have to walk the entire way up, but the view is lovely, as you can see the Binnenhof and the surrounding areas, it is definitely worth a visit.
By
Marit
Kruisdijk
Download our app now and know your way!
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map
Know your way in Art & culture and navigate with ease!
✓ Full access to 0 local favorites. Zero tourist highlights.
✓ Get to know our 0 Spotters and ♥ their recommendations.
✓ Save favorites and show them on the map.
