Nature
A collection of places where you can relax & recreate in nature.
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Wiktoria + 3
- Studentlife Team: “It is a perfect spot for a date or quality time with friends. Located between the International Campus and the city centre, Wilhelminapark is always full of students having picnics or going for walks. In the summer you should definitely try ice cream from Vorst, which is just around the corner.”
- Jiani : “We held our Welcome Week at this park, and there was plenty of space for a variety of outdoor activities. You can bring a blanket for a picnic, and there is also a beautiful view of the pond and trees, making it an exceptional place to enjoy a good time with friends in good weather! I met my classmates here, enjoyed some beer, and soaked up the sun on a lovely afternoon.”
- Wiktoria: “I have a soft spot for this place since a lot of social events took place there during my first year of studying in Utrecht. ”
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Fayruz + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Griftpark has so much to offer, from a basketball court to skate park and a “city petting zoo”!”
- Thomas : “A beautiful park, perfect for a picnic with friends. It also has an interesting history. Until 1960, it was the most polluted place in Utrecht due to the gas factory that was built there.”
- Fayruz : “As I wander aimlessly around Griftpark, I forget about my stress. I just focus on the green scenery, the ducks leisurely swimming in the pond, and the trees. If you take a break from studying, I highly recommend taking a stroll in the park, as it can be a rejuvenating experience for the soul.”
- Date idea
Botanical Gardens
Great for a visit in between classes, as all UU students have free access to the gardens- By Stephan + 6
- Sanne: “It's cool that your're so in the middle of the Botanical Gardens”
- Isa: “This place gives you the feeling of not being on campus for a moment, perfect for a break between studying”
- Stephan: “When the weather is nice, I like to come here and enjoy the beautiful gardens and the good weather.”
Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Berne + 1
- Studentlife Team: “Visiting this park is the best way to reconnect with nature and boost your well-being by surrounding yourself with animals like chickens, sheep, and ducks.”
- Berne: “In every season the juliana park is a nice place to walk. And in the summer you can have a picnic among the chickens”
Fortress bij Rijnauwen
Together with Amelisweerd, this is Utrecht's most popular outdoor area.- By Stephan + 1
- Berne: “It’s hard to miss Fort Rijnauwen if you go on your morning runs around the forest in Amelisweerd. The history behind the walls adds a bit of character to the forest and its beautiful flora and fauna. The sunset walks there are amazing too, definitely check it out in the early months of May, when it’s the perfect weather”
- Stephan: “I love to take a walk in the countryside and enjoy the beautiful weather.”
Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Studentlife Team + 1
- Berne: “In every season the juliana park is a nice place to walk. And in the summer you can have a picnic among the chickens”
- Studentlife Team: “Visiting this park is the best way to reconnect with nature and boost your well-being by surrounding yourself with animals like chickens, sheep, and ducks.”
Nature Reserve Amelisweerd
Tip! Explore Amelisweerd with a canoe!- By Jamal + 2
- Annaflavia: “After a long walk through Amelisweerd, I feel refreshed and re-energized. Being in the midst of such rich flora and fauna is a unique feeling.”
- Vito : “In the summer it is really great to picnic here and swim in the Kromme Rijn. Bring a swimming ring and go with the flow!”
- Jamal: “It gives me the space to empty my head once in a while.”