Buitenkaag: picturesque village on the Kagerplassen

In the southernmost tip of the Haarlemmermeerpolder, on the Kagerplassen, you will find the village of Buitenkaag. This small village has only around 480 inhabitants (2021). The village was first called Leeghwaterbuurt, named after the Leeghwater pumping station – a special national monument – ​​and only got its current name in the 60s. Read more about this picturesque village in Haarlemmermeer here.
Marina at the Kagerplassen.

Leeghwater ferry and pumping station

In Haarlemmermeer, every town has its own iconic building that makes it easily recognizable. The village of Buitenkaag is easily recognizable by its ferry. This bicycle ferry takes you from the village of Kaag to Oud Ade and is the only connection between Kaag and the surrounding area. It's ideal for exploring the beautiful Buitenkaag area by bike or enjoying a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants.

Another iconic location in Buitenkaag is the Leeghwater Pumping Station. This steam pumping station served as a test pump for draining the Haarlemmermeer lake. Afterward, pumping stations in Lijnden and Cruquius were also built, which ultimately drained the Haarlemmermeer lake.

What to do in Buitenkaag?

The picturesque village is the perfect place to spend a few days. During the summer months, Buitenkaag is a popular tourist destination. Here you can enjoy the view of the Kagerplassen, sailing around in a boat or walking through the beautiful surroundings.  

Another point of interest is the Sint Joannes Evangelist church complex. This church building was built in 1930 in the special style of the Amsterdam School. There are also several restaurants in Buitenkaag, such as Matt's Brasserie, where you can enjoy a delicious snack and drink with a view over the water. When will you come by?