The Late-Winter Survival Guide: Beating the Grey the Dutch Way
The Lowdown
It’s that time of year when you seriously consider moving the family to some sun-kissed Spanish utopia. Any mum who has survived a winter in Amsterdam knows the feeling (and their February Google history will confirm it). Of course, once spring arrives, all is forgiven and we fall in love with our city all over again. But the honest truth? The stretch after Christmas, before spring finally shows its face, is a long, hard slog. Here are knowing, mum-approved, three top tips to surviving the final grey stretch — because spring will arrive, we just have to get there.
Lean Into Winter
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Winter in Amsterdam is the gift that keeps on giving…and giving, so why not simply embrace it? Of course, it takes a little more motivation when the air outside is freezing and layering up feels like a full-time job, but getting outside into nature and the big outdoors (yes, Amsterdam does have some!) is the surest and fastest way to get a much-needed energy boost — and some precious headspace.
Need Some Inspiration?
If you are feeling the need to escape Amsterdam’s urban hum, head to the Amsterdamse Bos, the ideal setting for a nature-filled walk. Whether you’re wandering solo with a podcast for company, with baby and pram, with a partner, or with a friend, this vast forested park is the closest you’ll get to a countryside stroll without the drive out. Top tip: start at the delightful Bosbaan Café, so you can loop back afterwards for a well-deserved coffee — or wine, depending on your mood!
Seriously Consider a Mini Staycay
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Feel like the Voorjaarsvakantie isn’t going to be enough to satisfy that urge to escape the grey city? Why not consider squeezing in a weekend trip, but closer to home? The Dutch are true masters of the (actually very nice) family holiday park, with plenty of indoor activities for kids and adults alike. Winter months can actually be some of the best times to enjoy these parks—which, conveniently, are often only a short car journey away.
Need Some Inspiration?
For such a small country, the Netherlands sure does pack in the holiday parks—but sitting on the throne is Landal, and reigning supreme is their park; Hof van Saksen. Why? Because it sets the bar for all others (not just in the Netherlands): state-of-the-art facilities, gorgeous modern cottages designed for families with kids and endless indoor activities to keep everyone entertained. Still craving a little ‘me time’? There’s a Spa & Wellness Centre. Basically, everyone wins.
Curious? Read the full write-up here
Bring the Warmth Home — Embracing Dutch Gezelligheid
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So how do people get through the long Dutch winters without losing their sense of balance? Simple: the warmth missing outside is created indoors and when it comes to interiors, it’s all in the little touches. Think soft lighting, warm throws, thoughtfully designed corners… the kind of spaces that make you want to curl up with a book, or just stare blissfully at nothing for five whole minutes.
The secret to perfecting Gezelligheid is not to overdo it — subtle enough to leave room for headspace, but cozy enough that you’ll actually want to nestle down…at least until the kids come charging in.
Inspiration:
If you’re after a one-stop hit of gezellig interior inspiration, Loods 5 is hard to beat. Wandering this gigantic showroom on the outskirts of Zaandam has a way of suspending all sense of time (and restraint). Expect endless aisles showcasing hundreds of brands and independent designers — every cushion, throw, lamp and textile you could ever need… and several you definitely don’t. You might pop in for just a couple of cushions and somehow leave wondering whether a full wicker-basket collection for hats and gloves was absolutely essential (it was). Part of the fun is getting a little carried away — Loods 5 is the perfect place to indulge in interior daydreaming.
