Geological Museum Hofland — Attraction in Laren

The Geological Museum Hofland provides insight into the history of life on earth, the influence of the Ice Ages and the cycle of rocks. The museum tries to do this in an accessible, but scientifically responsible way. There are six permanent exhibitions: Goois* Past, Fossils and the History of Life on Earth, Prehistoric Cave, Rock Cycle, Minerals and The Stone Garden. The collection is partly presented in showcases and partly as interactive presentations. In addition to the permanent collection on display, there are regular temporary exhibitions.

Recommended for kids and adults, a lot can be learned from the infographics, displays and especially from the volunteers who often had career into the scene. It's definitely recommended to go there, despite it's size. You may also enjoy the moors later, if you want to walk or have the time and see the burial hills yourself.

(* = 't Gooi is a region within the...

What a little marble.

Every Sunday you can pick out stones for 5 EUR to be sawed in half and reveal a geode. It is really impressive what the committee behind this museum has done with the place. It is rather small but the ideas to explain the different geological concepts are simple and well thought through.

Ask them to open the door to the stone garden for you. It was a hidden little garden and impressed the kids.

As the museum is done within 1h or 1.5h make sure you also take a walk through the nature reserve (don't bring a stroller for...

What an incredibly enjoyable museum! Despite its modest size, both indoor and outdoor exhibits provide a delightful experience. The kids particularly loved the engaging puzzle hunt, with a rewarding choice of a beautiful stone at the end. The staff were exceptionally friendly, and the guided tour was both informative and entertaining. Both my grandsons and we had a fantastic time and will definitely be returning. Highly...