Things To Do
in Blaricum
Blaricum is a tranquil village in North Holland, nestled in the Gooi region between Laren and Huizen. Its landscape blends thatched cottages, wooded lanes, and expansive green spaces. The area is ideal for cycling, strolling, and relaxed countryside escapes just a short distance from Amsterdam.
With a village atmosphere and easy access to nearby towns, Blaricum offers a charming mix of rural charm and cultural options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll through the village center, admiring the iconic white cottages and cobblestone lanes. Stop at a local café for fresh coffee and homemade pastries while soaking in the serene atmosphere. Chat with friendly shopkeepers to learn about Blaricum’s rich history and community spirit.
Visit the Blaricum Heimatmuseum to delve into traditional Dutch rural life, exploring antique furniture and folk costumes. Wander through the nearby old churchyard and read the inscriptions on centuries-old gravestones. Pause at a park bench to enjoy the gentle rustling of leaves and local anecdotes shared by passing residents.
Dine at a family-run brasserie serving seasonal specials like wild asparagus and local game. Enjoy a glass of Dutch wine or a craft beer on the terrace as daylight fades. End the night with a moonlit walk along the village square, appreciating the quiet charm of Blaricum after hours.
Set out on foot along the gentle woodland paths surrounding the village, breathing in the crisp morning air. Pause to spot songbirds and rabbits among grazing sheep in open meadows. Photograph dew-kissed wildflowers before continuing toward a hidden pond.
Rent a bike and cycle the winding heathland routes that connect Blaricum to neighboring hamlets. Stop for a farmhouse lunch of artisanal cheese and hearty bread under a canopy of birch trees. Chat with the farmer about traditional grazing practices while watching cows meander in the pasture.
Return to the village and relax at a cozy pub famed for its local ales and friendly locals. Sample an open-faced sandwich topped with smoked eel and pickled vegetables. Exchange travel stories with fellow guests by a crackling fireplace before retiring for the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in town center (monthly) | $1100-1700 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful countryside and easy access to nature
- Safe and family-friendly
- Close to Amsterdam and regional towns
- Cycling-friendly with scenic routes
- Limited nightlife within the village
- Some services close earlier on Sundays
- Higher prices in Gooi region
- Public transport can be less frequent at night
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemiddag" - Good afternoon
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is de trein?" - Where is the train?
- "I don’t understand" - Ik begrijp het niet
Places to Visit in Blaricum
Visit one of these nice places.
Thatched cottages, cobblestone lanes, and a traditional Dutch church provide quintessential village photography opportunities.
Open meadows, pine forests and winding lanes offer moody landscape shots, especially at golden hour.
Calm wetlands, heathlands and forest edges ideal for nature photography and wildlife.
Food in Blaricum
Blaricum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Dutch potato dish with smoked sausage; great in harvest markets and traditional Dutch eateries.
Must-Try!
Large, thin pancakes served with sweet toppings or savory fillings at cafés and family-run eateries.
Classic Dutch apple pie often found in bakeries and cafés; pair with coffee for a traditional bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly outdoor market in nearby Laren offering produce, cheese, baked goods and street snacks.
Seasonal market in the Gooi area where you can sample local produce, honey, and artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people are friendly and direct; a simple hello or good day is appreciated. Keep conversations direct and polite.
Bikes have right of way in many areas; ride on the right side of cycle paths where indicated and ring your bell when passing pedestrians.
Respect residential privacy; keep noise down in the evenings, especially in quiet residential streets.
Tipping is modest and situational; in restaurants follow local cues if service charge is included.
Safety
Tipping in Blaricum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are customary but not obligatory; rounding up at a restaurant or small extra for good service is common. Service charges are often included in larger establishments.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is still used but less common. Contactless payments and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common; many places also accept iDEAL for online payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with golden afternoon light; excellent for outdoor dining, cycling, and lakeside photos. Be prepared for occasional rain showers and crowds at popular spots.
Vibrant leaf color and harvest markets; moderate temperatures ideal for walking and photography in softer light.
Colder days with short daylight; cozy cafés and potential frost or snow; fewer crowds and atmospheric scenes.
Blooming trees and fields; pleasant cycling weather and plenty of garden and nature photography opportunities.
Blaricum at Night
Hiking in Blaricum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and heathland with well-marked trails and birdlife.
Wetlands and lake habitats ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.
Water-centric trails around the lakes with scenic viewpoints and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Blaricum by plane.
Main international gateway; about 40-60 km from Blaricum; easy to reach by train, bus, or car.
Smaller regional airport used for domestic and charter flights; further from Blaricum but accessible by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The area is known for its high standard of living and stable communities.
Strong local schools and family-friendly amenities.
Some expatriates and professionals who work in Amsterdam or Utrecht.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played; local clubs in the Gooi region.
One of the most popular ways to get around; extensive cycling routes through forests and countryside.
Common sport in Dutch towns, with local clubs and youth programs.
Community courts and clubs in Laren and Hilversum.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blaricum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in the area provide vegetarian options; look for veg mains and veggie sides; ask for zonder vlees or zonder kaas if needed.