Germany: Holland-Park launches new attractions
Courtesy of: Holland-Park
The Holland Park in the greater Berlin area was opened in April, offering a wide variety of attractions and delights for visitors of all ages. A play and climbing hall as well as various playgrounds and the 21-metre high tower house with six different slides have become increasingly popular since then, especially with children and young people, while the garden center, the market hall with Dutch and local specialties as well as the Dutch-inspired gastronomy make the offer a well-rounded experience for adults as well (cf. EAP-News 28 Feb 22). The 100,000th visitor was already welcomed at the beginning of June. Theo Roelofs, Managing Director of Holland Park and Holland Garden Centre, is extremely satisfied: "Our expectations were very high, as we were and are convinced of our concept of presenting a piece of the Netherlands as a stimulating experience just a few kilometers outside the gates of Berlin. We are all the more pleased that these high expectations have been fulfilled. In particular, the slide tower and the indoor play area have been able to establish themselves as crowd favorites and the culinary offer – whether on site or for at home – has been enormously well received."
Just in time at the start of the summer holidays, further attractions have now been completed. The park's landmark, visible from afar, opens its doors tomorrow at the start of the summer holidays and can now also be explored from the inside. The old Dutch octagonal mill "Wilhelmus" – named after King Wilhem I of the Netherlands and after the father of Holland-Park owner Theo Roelofs – is unique in two ways: Firstly, it consists of four historic old mills (the oldest component dates back to 1802) that had to be demolished due to their dilapidation and could thus be given a new purpose. On the other hand, it has a double drive – an absolute novelty in mill construction that can also produce electricity.
Right next to "Wilhelmus" is the "Molenhuis", the mill and clog shoe museum, where you can learn about two typical Dutch traditions on 180 square meters. Directly after that, it's off to the "Jungle Hal": in this 450-square-metre plant and animal paradise, visitors can immerse themselves in the exotic world of the jungle. Over 100 different plants provide the backdrop for water and land turtles, meerkats, fish species such as koi and red-finned catfish as well as lorises. Some of the animals may even be fed with specially designated food. With a few exceptions, entry to the park continues to be free. (eap)
