Van Amsterdam Curling: Where and How to Try Curling in the City

Thinking of trying curling while you're in Amsterdam? Whether you've seen it on TV during the Winter Olympics or you're just curious about this quirky ice sport, "van Amsterdam curling" is a surprisingly popular search term—and for good reason. Curling has been gaining popularity across Europe, and Amsterdam is no exception. The city offers some unique opportunities for both locals and visitors to try out curling, whether it's in a cozy winter pop-up rink or at a dedicated sports facility.

What is Curling and Why is it Fun?

Curling is often described as "chess on ice." It’s a team sport where players slide granite stones towards a target while teammates use brooms to guide the stone’s path. It may look slow-paced, but it’s filled with strategy, skill, and a whole lot of friendly competition.

What makes curling great for travelers is that it’s easy to pick up, fun in groups, and doesn’t require you to be super athletic to enjoy. Many curling venues in Amsterdam even offer short introductory sessions, making it perfect for spontaneous outings or rainy-day plans.

Where to Go Curling in Amsterdam

Here are the main places in and around Amsterdam where you can get on the ice and start curling:

• Curling Club Amsterdam (CCA): This is the heart of the curling scene in the city. They offer training sessions, social games, and competitions. You’ll need to book in advance and check their calendar since they share ice time with other sports.
• Jaap Eden Ice Rink: One of the most famous ice rinks in Amsterdam, and occasionally hosts curling pop-ups during the winter season. It's open from October to March, and they often feature fun winter sports events.
• Winter Parcs & Pop-Up Ice Rinks: During the holiday season (November–January), several public squares like Museumplein or Rembrandtplein transform into ice rinks and occasionally offer curling as part of their festive activities.

Booking a Curling Session

If you're planning to try curling during your visit, it’s smart to book in advance—especially during the winter months. Here’s how:

• Visit the website of Curling Club Amsterdam ( curlingclubamsterdam.nl ) and check the agenda.
• Look for "Introductiecursus" or “Open Curling” sessions—these are open to beginners and often in English or with English-speaking coaches.
• Prices typically range from €10 to €25 per person, including equipment rental.

Local Tips for First-Time Curlers

Here are a few Amsterdam-specific tips for your first curling experience:

• Wear warm but flexible clothes: The rink is cold, but you’ll be moving. Think layers and stretchy pants.
• Don’t worry about shoes: Most curling locations provide special shoes or sliders, but check when you book.
• Arrive early: Rinks like Jaap Eden can be busy, and you’ll want time to get familiar with the ice.
• Go with friends: Curling is social! Book a group session and enjoy it with a beer afterward—many facilities have a cozy bar onsite.

Is Curling in Amsterdam Available Year-Round?

Most curling sessions in Amsterdam are seasonal, especially at outdoor or pop-up rinks. The dedicated clubs and facilities usually operate from October to March, which aligns with the general ice sports season in the Netherlands.

However, you might catch off-season indoor events or even mobile curling lanes set up for festivals and events—so it never hurts to check local listings, especially around sports halls or event centers.

Combining Curling with Your Amsterdam Trip

If you're in Amsterdam for a few days, adding a curling session to your itinerary can be a refreshing break from museum-hopping and canal tours. Some visitors even plan themed days: start with curling in the morning, grab pancakes at a nearby café, and enjoy a cozy evening at a brown bar or sauna.

Curling is also a family-friendly activity, so if you're traveling with kids or teens, this can be a fun shared experience that’s out of the ordinary. Just be sure to check minimum age requirements when booking.

Summary & FAQ: Van Amsterdam Curling

Whether you're a sports fan or just looking for something new to try, curling in Amsterdam offers a great winter adventure. The sport is accessible, fun, and offers a unique way to interact with locals and fellow travelers alike.

FAQ

• Is curling available all year in Amsterdam?
  Mostly from October to March. Some pop-ups in winter may offer short-term curling lanes.
• Do I need to bring my own equipment?
  Nope! Equipment is usually provided at clubs and rinks.
• Can I join as a solo visitor?
  Yes! Look for open sessions or contact the curling club directly—they often match solo visitors into groups.
• How much does curling in Amsterdam cost?
  Between €10 and €25 depending on the session and location.

So next time you're Googling "van Amsterdam curling", remember—it’s more than a quirky search term. It’s your ticket to a memorable and fun local experience!