Dog lovers beware! Almere offers a range of options for both you and your four-legged friend to enjoy everything the city has to offer together. Whether you're looking for the most beautiful off-leash areas, the best pet shops, or comfortable accommodations to stay with your pet, Almere has it all. Read on for the best tips and find out how you and your dog can make the most of your visit to this dynamic city!
Walking the dog
In Almere, all dog owners can walk their dogs on a leash almost anywhere in the city. A leash obligation therefore applies everywhere, with the exception of off-leash areas. The beaches in Almere are a big favourite for dog lovers and outside the high season, these beaches are always open as off-leash areas. Here dogs can run and play undisturbed. Apart from the beaches, there are also vast fields and beautiful forest areas where your dog can run around. One of the largest and most popular off-leash areas are the Pampushout and Almeerderstrand.
The Pampushout
The Pampushout is the ideal destination for a long walk of about an hour and a half. Besides hiking, the Pampushout is also an excellent place for a picnic. Along the paths, you will find several picnic tables and benches where you can enjoy a quiet break in nature. You can choose to go along the unpaved and sometimes muddy paths or the wheelchair-friendly cycle path, the forest offers a wonderful nature experience for everyone. During this trip, you will encounter various landscapes and have the chance to spot wildlife, such as rabbits, deer, foxes, and all kinds of birds. However, it is important that your dog listens well and does not chase these animals, so that nature in this beautiful area remains protected. An added bonus is the free parking area 'De Kiem'.
The Almeerderstrand
One of the favourite spots among Almeer dogs and their owners is the Almeerderstrand. Here, a special section of the beach has been designated as an off-leash area where dogs can run freely over the sand, take a dip in the water, and play happily. This off-leash area is located on the south side of the beach, on the north side of the Hollandse Brug. Just a five-minute walk from the beach, you'll find the spacious parking area 'Muiderzandplaats', giving you easy access to the beach. Check this map to find the exact location of the off-leash area.
The Vaartsluisbos
Another wonderful off-leash area is the Vaartsluisbos. This lies between the Hoge Vaart and the Lage Vaart canals. This forest is known for its many poplars of which there are all kinds of varieties in this area. The forest borders a busy road, but you won't be bothered by that in the forest. During your walk, you may also come across some picnic tables and benches for a skin-deep break. Dogs are allowed to run free, but it is important to keep them under guard. You can park your car on the Vaartsluisweg.
Off-leash and restricted areas
Want to know where else you can run loose with your dog? On the off-leash areas map you will find all locations at a glance: Off-leash areas Dogs Please note that in some areas dogs are not allowed due to the possible nuisance, such as in children's playgrounds. You can easily look up these prohibited areas via the prohibition areas map: Prohibition areas Dogs.
Dog-friendly eateries
Almere has a wide range of catering establishments, but where can you go after a walk with your dog? Luckily, there are several restaurants and cafés in Almere where dogs are more than welcome. To be sure, check the website of the restaurant you want to go to or make a phone call in advance so you know where you stand.
Staying overnight with your dog
Want a weekend trip to Almere and take your dog along? No problem! Almere has several hotels and Airbnb's where pets are welcome, so that you and your faithful friend can stay in comfort. If you would like to stay right in the centre of Almere, you can go to both Hotel Anno and Best Western Plus Plaza. Both hotels are centrally located and offer stylish accommodation with a warm welcome for dogs. They are located near the city centre, giving you the convenience of being close to all amenities. These hotels will make your dog feel as at home as you do. If you prefer to stay just outside the city centre, the Holiday Inn Express is an excellent option, where you and your dog are also welcome. If you are looking for something unique, you can stay at Residence Oosterwold Sauna & Jacuzzi. This accommodation offers a relaxing stay, with extra amenities such as a sauna and jacuzzi, where you and your dog can enjoy peaceful surroundings.
Even more inspiration
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Cycling
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Hiking
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With kids
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Architecture