Geniedijk: the green connection of Vijfhuizen, Hoofddorp & Aalsmeer

Not just any dike

The Geniedijk in Haarlemmermeer is part of the Defense of Amsterdam. This is a defense line that was constructed between 1880 and 1920 by the defense. The dike was part of a clever system of canals, dikes, locks, dams and areas that could be deliberately flooded.

The idea behind it was brilliant: by flooding the land around the line, a layer of water was created that was too deep to walk through, but not deep enough for boats. This made the area inaccessible to the enemy. The arrival of the airplane unfortunately made this strategy obsolete, but the forts, dikes and waterworks were preserved. The Geniedijk is still a reminder of a special piece of Dutch defense and hydraulic engineering history.
 

Forts along the Geniedijk 

The Geniedijk takes you past three historic forts. The dike starts at the Fort of Vijfhuizen on the Cruquiusdijk. And continues to the Fort near Hoofddorp to where the Geniedijk ends, at the Fort at Aalsmeer on the Aalsmeerderdijk. Also the lesser known Fort de Liede and Fort near Heemstede found in Haarlemmermeer. These are part of a precursor of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, the Posten van Krayenhoff.  

Green backbone as a cycle route 

The Geniedijk is no longer used for military purposes, but it is an ideal place for recreation. The Geniedijk runs like a green ribbon through the centre of Hoofddorp and is a popular cycling and walking route. The cycle path connects the adjacent neighbourhoods and recreation areas. Here you can enjoy an oasis of peace, with a view of beautiful fields with sheep and cows. It is also an important ecological connection. Along the dike you will find various types of plants, birds and small mammals. It is also an important migration route for animals, such as the butterflies and bats that migrate along the Geniedijk through Hoofddorp.  
 

Genius park and orchard 

The Geniepark is located around the eastern part of the Geniedijk, between Hoofddorp station and the Ringvaart. This park will be further expanded in the coming years, especially over the A4. As a new green heart, the Genie Park offers space for culture, recreation and relaxation in the midst of activity.  

In 2015, 260 fruit trees were planted in Genie Park. You can pick your own fruit in the orchard, such as apples, plums and walnuts. So don't forget to bring your basket in the summer and join the harvest!