This region is one of the best kept secrets of the Netherlands! Just 30 minutes driving from Amsterdam you will find yourself surrounded by nature, tranquility, stunning country estates, castles, quaint villages, as well as wide beaches and tough harbors!

Velsen is the municipality in Noord-Holland, in which Ijmuiden is located, divided by the North Sea canal. A very diverse area with several historic estates and nature reserves to explore and the location of this somewhat raw city of industry by the sea, which is quite underrated.

As the largest fishing port of the Netherlands, main harbor for many ferry and cruise ships and well-known as the location of one of the biggest steal producers of Europe, Ijmuiden generally has a lesser reputation, causing it to be highly underestimated, also by me!

Make sure to rent a bike to cycle around the stunning nature areas like Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, the Beeckestijn Estate, visit the Ruins of Brederode, Old-Velsen, and of course the wide beaches and port of Ijmuiden!

As the fishing industry has been a huge driving force behind the development the city, this is what made it prosper. It’s the ideal departure point for fishermen due to the proximity to fishing grounds, and a must visit if you like fresh fish and seafood.

IJmuiden has 3 beaches with something for everyone. We visited the main beach for sunset cocktails. The widest beach in the Netherlands with 5 different beach pavilions, open year round. Easily accessible with plenty of parking space and behind it a small boulevard overlooking the marina with several restaurants and stores. This beach also offers plenty of wind- and water sports options, such as surfing, kite surfing and blokarting.