Paola Westbeek
Thereβs no denying how good spring feels. With the arrival of warm, sunny days, we crave lifeβs simple pleasures, like watching how nature blooms at our cityβs parks and gardens, cycling with the wind in our hair, or spending a leisurely afternoon on the water feeling those first blissful rays of sunshine. And what better way to revel in these delights than with someone special at our side! Rotterdam offers plenty of romantic ways to make the most out of the months ahead. So shake off the cold and get ready to welcome this brand-new seasonβ¦ Γ deux!
Sail Away
With the most impressive skyline in the country, flamboyant architecture and one of the worldβs largest harbours, one could safely say that Rotterdam has it all β and a great way to experience its many wonders is from the water.
No trip to Rotterdam would be complete without a cruise aboard one of Spidoβs six spacious ships. Departing from the foot of the Erasmus Bridge, a 75-minute tour will take you past some of our top attractions such as the Euromast, Hotel New York and the SS Rotterdam. If desired, you can combine your trip with a four-course dinner at Restaurant Ketelbinkie, situated on the ground floor of De Rotterdam (one of the cityβs most prestigious buildings) and boasting a nostalgic decor with brick walls, tall ceilings and plenty of charm.
Another option would be to go sailing on Kralingse Plas, located in a 200-hectare recreational area of forests perfect for all kinds of activities. At The Boathouse, one of the various lively restaurants situated around the lake, you can rent a boat (no license required) and head out on your own. We recommend surprising your loved one by taking along a cosy blanket, finger foods, flowers and bottle of bubbles!
Revel in the Beauty of Nature
Spring means blossoming trees, tulips, hyacinths and daffodils. The return of the sun and the scent of fresh grass lure us outdoors to experience nature awakening from its long winter sleep. Rotterdam offers plenty of places to watch this spectacle unfold, and one of them is definitely Het Park, a lush oasis of calm just a stoneβs throw from the Euromast. Why not pack a picnic basket with sandwiches, fresh fruit, the seasonβs first strawberries and a bottle of chilled rosΓ© and spend the afternoon there with someone special?
If both of you enjoy cycling, the 30-kilometre Polderpadroute starts at Rotterdam Central Station and leads you through a breathtakingly beautiful area between the Schie and Rotte rivers dotted with verdant pastures, grazing cows, dikes and the animated sounds of chirping birds.
Another great idea is to head for a romantic stroll through the pretty park and botanical gardens of Trompenburg Tuinen & Arboretum. Situated on Honingerdijk and spanning eight hectares, this horticultural haven boasts approximately 4,000 kinds of plants, flowers, shrubs and trees. The landscaped gardens invite you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and simply feast your eyes on an explosion of colour. And donβt forget to look out for the wisteria. At Trompenburg youβll find it in variety of shades infusing the air with its delicate scent. Before rounding off your visit, you might want to stop for cake and coffee on the terrace of Trompenburgβs tea house.
Indulge the Senses
As the saying goes, βApril showers bring May flowers,β but no need to let a little rain put a damper on an amorous rendezvous. Instead, whisk your partner off for a special meal, a few drinks at a panoramic spot, or a day of pampering at the spa.
At Restaurant Frits, youβll both be in for a delicious surprise with a stunning eight-course menu consisting of artfully prepared seasonal dishes which can be paired with carefully chosen wines. Not only does this take the guesswork out of fine dining, but most importantly, it leaves you ample time to savour each otherβs company.
Optionally, you can sip cocktails together while watching the sun set over the city at NHOW Hotelβs seventh floor terrace, one of the best places to take in the exceptional views over the mighty skyline.
For a real treat, leave your stress behind and enter a world of relaxation and beauty at Elysium Wellnessresort, situated just under 30 minutes away from the city centre in the town of Bleiswijk. Youβll be spoiled for choice with a wide selection of treatments, but highly recommended are the Duo All-Inclusive, which features a full day with use of all facilities as well as food, drinks and a purifying charcoal mask. Or, book the Duo Seasonal Body Mask, complete with a facial mask and exquisite head massage. And donβt forget to check out the enchanting Laguna where waterfalls and a magical atmosphere will invigorate you and help you both ring in the spring with renewed energy. It certainly doesnβt get more romantic than that!
