landgoed De Beek

Envision a hidden oasis. A tranquil escape nestled near the bustling energy of Amsterdam. This, my friends, is Landgoed De Beek. Landgoed De Beek is a 16-hectare nature reserve. It’s a sanctuary of mixed woodland and serene water features. Managed by the Goois Natuurreservaat, Landgoed De Beek offers a peaceful retreat. It’s a stark contrast to the nearby A1 motorway. The Oud-Blaricummerweg, connecting Bussum and Huizen, actually bisects this tranquil haven. Landgoed De Beek and the adjacent Oud Bussem were once part of the larger Bosch van Bredius. Back in the 17th and 18th centuries, Landgoed De Beek showcased a formal, geometric design. Think French garden architecture with its straight lines, star-shaped woods, ornate decorations, and reflective water basins. The creation of the woodland garden around De Beek house cleverly incorporated existing drainage ditches. It also used the natural sloping terrain. A natural spring, likely the source of the name “De Beek” (The Brook), provided a constant source of water. Interestingly, in 1925, sand extraction began on the site of what is now a plant nursery, significantly altering the landscape. After World War II, many sections were replanted, restoring some of the landgoed’s former glory. Since approximately 1948, the Goois Natuurreservaat has diligently managed this area, which had fallen into neglect during the war. Today, Landgoed De Beek is characterized by its captivating water features, majestic deciduous trees, and vibrant rhododendrons. The presence of stinzenflora, a unique collection of early spring flowers, adds another layer of beauty to this hidden gem. Sand extraction played a significant role in shaping Landgoed De Beek. Starting in the mid-18th century, sand was excavated for road construction and building projects in Amsterdam. This led to the creation of the zanderijsloten, or sand dredging ditches, which connected to existing waterways. The extracted sand also fueled the brick-making industry at a nearby factory on Jan ter Gouwweg in Naarden. The sand was transported by boat. A loop-shaped waterway was ingeniously designed to allow boats to turn around, creating an island in the process. This inaccessible haven, known as Reigerseiland (Heron Island), lies on the other side of the Oud Blaricummerweg and remains a part of the Landgoed De Beek area. Two houses situated between De Beek and Reigerseiland originally served as estate staff quarters. They also functioned as tollhouses for the road connecting Naarden/Bussum to Blaricum/Huizen, adding a touch of human history to this natural landscape. So next time you’re in Amsterdam, escape the city buzz. Discover the tranquility of Landgoed De Beek.