Have you ever strolled through a park designed like an island kingdom? Welcome to Park de Schinkeleilanden. This Amsterdam gem lies west of the Olympic Stadium along the Schinkel River. It’s easily reached via the Jan Wils Bridge from the Olympic Quarter.
Before its transformation in 2005-2010 Park de Schinkeleilanden had a different life. Two islands between the Schinkel and Stadiongracht canals were partly storage areas. The southern part housed De Schinkel sports park. The Amsterdam Ice Skating Club and even a summer campsite were located south of the IJsbaanpad. Today the Frans Otten Stadium stands proudly there.
The park’s current design is the brainchild of the Amsterdam landscape architects Sant en Co. They cleverly divided the area into four unique islands. Each island offers something different. There are areas for recreation and sport. The Electric Museum Tramline forms the eastern border. A lovely detail is the Piet Kranenbergpad. This path opened in 2007. It’s a continuous bicycle and pedestrian path. It stretches from Havenstraat near Haarlemmermeer Station to the Amsterdamse Bos.
Think of the careful landscaping. The avenue of pear trees. The weeping willows and swamp cypresses. These create an unforgettable visual experience throughout the year. The rustling Italian poplars act as natural dividers between islands. They separate the tennis island from the football island.
Park de Schinkeleilanden is more than just a green space. It’s a carefully planned environment that blends recreation with nature. It’s a testament to thoughtful urban planning and respect for history. So explore the unique character of each island. Discover the beauty of Park de Schinkeleilanden. Enjoy your exploration of this Amsterdam hidden gem.