Fort of Hoofddorp: hidden treasure in Haarlemmermeer

Renovation

Since 2020, the fortress has reopened after a major renovation. The many authentic details have been preserved, but significant investments have also been made in sustainability. Cultural activities take place on the island, such as performances in the open-air theater and exhibitions in the former rooms and casemate. Restaurant Fort NOXX has taken up residence on the top floor and there are two different meeting rooms.  

Defense Line of Amsterdam: water line in Hoofddorp 

The Fort of Hoofddorp is just like that Fort near Vijfhuizen en Fort at Aalsmeer part of the waterline Defense Line of Amsterdam. Due to the lower location of Hoofddorp in the Haarlemmermeerpolder, this fort has a different layout than usual. The fort is one of the two forts with a storey, has a retractable dome and only one casemate.  

There was room for 200 soldiers in the fort. There never were, because the defense plan of the water line was never deployed. Due to the rise of airplanes and with it a war in the air, the water line became superfluous. The fort is of course also on the UNESCO heritage list. Read more on this about the Defense Line of Amsterdam in Haarlemmermeer. Tip: cycle all the way down the Geniedijk, which connects the three forts in Haarlemmermeer.  

Windmill at Fort of Hoofddorp 

As you approach the fort you will probably see Molen de Eerstelling sooner. The blades protrude above the concrete walls of the fort. What is special about this flour mill is that it was not originally located here. The 100.000 kilo heavy mill is the first mill to be moved in its entirety to the place where it now stands. Flour is still ground in the traditional way. The flour is for sale to bake at home. The miller is happy to tell you about his beautiful profession.  

Guided tour at the Fort of Hoofddorp 

You can enter the fortress island every day. On the first Saturday of the month and on special days, such as Open Monuments Day, you can join a guided tour. Doesn't that suit you? Then go with the podcast in which architect Serge Schoenmaker tells you all about the grand renovation. You can of course make a separate reservation for a group tour. 

Culture and nature on the fortress island 

The showpiece of the fortress island is the Wild Garden. This is located on the roof of the fort and is clearly visible from the heart of the fort. In the garden, 800 plants of 50 different species have been planted by a group of volunteers. The garden will bloom in the spring. This creates a true hotspot for insects and butterflies. A hidden treasure where you can sit out of the wind in the sun at one of the picnic tables! Bats also live on the fortress island. Fort van Hoofddorp works together with Poppodium Duycker for concerts in the open-air theatre. Keep an eye on the agenda for an up-to-date overview.  

Restaurant Fort van Hoofddorp 

Would you like to have a bite to eat in a special environment? Restaurant Fort NOXX breathes the industrial atmosphere and is open from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch, drinks and dinner. The menu includes well-known classics such as carpaccio and steak. There is also plenty of choice for vegetarians. Do you want to enjoy the water? A few tables have been placed downstairs on a terrace on the canal. Ducks, swans and geese sneak past you while you enjoy a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a beer.  

There are two special rooms for a business meeting or presentation. Do you want to combine it with an active team building session? That is also possible! Are you coming to the Fort of Hoofddorp by car? Then it is best to park in the center of Hoofdorp. You can enter the parking garage at the Burgemeester van Stampplein. From there it is a few minutes walk to the Fort.