If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a place straight out of a storybook, Giethoorn might just be your perfect destination. Often referred to as the “Dutch Venice,” this picturesque village in the northeastern Netherlands enchants visitors with its idyllic canals, lush greenery, and charming thatched-roof cottages.
When you think of canal cities, Venice likely springs to mind, but Giethoorn holds its own unique charm and history. With serene waterways, an air of tranquility, and natural beauty, this village is a must-see for anyone visiting the Netherlands.
A Brief History of Giethoorn
Giethoorn’s story began in the 13th century when it was settled by a group of farmers. Legend has it that these early settlers discovered a trove of wild goat horns buried in the peat bogs – remnants of animals that had perished in catastrophic floods during the 1100s. They named the village Geytenhoren (Goat Horn), which eventually became the Giethoorn we know today.
The village’s extensive waterways are a lasting legacy of the peat harvesting that shaped the area’s landscape centuries ago. Once peat was dug out, water filled the gaps, creating lakes and canals that define Giethoorn’s character today. This watery infrastructure isn’t just historical – it’s how residents continue to navigate their village.
Why Giethoorn is so Popular
Giethoorn’s fairy-tale charm has earned it global attention, particularly as a quieter, slower-paced alternative to tourist-heavy destinations. Key reasons for its appeal include:
- Timeless Beauty: The thatched-roof cottages, neatly maintained gardens, and gently flowing canals create a picture-perfect atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook.
- Car-Free Serenity: Much of the village is inaccessible by car. Residents and visitors rely on boats or footpaths to get around, adding to the sense of tranquility.
- Seasonal Magic: In summer, the village blooms with vibrant greenery, while in winter, the frozen canals turn it into a snowy wonderland ideal for ice skating.
Things to Do in Giethoorn
Giethoorn may be a small village, but it offers plenty of activities for all types of travelers.
Glide Along the Canals by Boat
The best way to explore Giethoorn is by boat. Rent a traditional whisper boat (a small, silent electric boat) or join a guided tour to glide under picturesque bridges and past the storybook homes lining the canals.
Discover the Village’s History
Dive into Giethoorn’s past with a visit to Museum Het Olde Maat Uus, where you can explore a restored farmhouse and learn about the farming traditions of early residents. Don’t miss Museum de Oude Aarde, showcasing stunning minerals and gemstones, or the quirky Histomobil, which features vintage cars and other fascinating artifacts.
Explore De Weerribben-Wieden National Park
Giethoorn sits on the edge of the Netherlands’ largest national park. De Weerribben-Wieden is a paradise for nature lovers, with scenic hiking and biking trails, peaceful waterways perfect for canoeing, and a diverse range of wildlife, including otters and dragonflies.
Seasonal Activities
In winter, Giethoorn transforms into a snowy retreat where you can go ice skating on its frozen canals. In the warmer months, you can hike the surrounding trails, visit art galleries, or enjoy outdoor dining at one of the village’s cozy restaurants.
How to Get to Giethoorn
Your journey to Giethoorn starts in Amsterdam, which is about two hours away by public transport. Here’s how you can get there:
- By Train and Bus: Take a train to Steenwijk, followed by a bus to Giethoorn. It’s an easy and scenic trip through the Dutch countryside.
- By Car: If you prefer to drive, Giethoorn is about a 90-minute trip from Amsterdam. Keep in mind that cars aren’t allowed in the central village area, so you’ll need to park at the edge and explore on foot or by boat.
- Guided Tours: Several tour companies offer day trips to Giethoorn, which can simplify travel logistics and often include a guided canal tour.
Where to Stay in and Around Giethoorn
While many visitors treat Giethoorn as a day trip, staying overnight allows you to experience the village’s peaceful ambiance in the quieter early mornings or evenings.
- In Giethoorn: Small, family-run bed and breakfasts like Hotel de Harmonie or B&B De Galeriet offer cozy accommodation and authentic Dutch hospitality.
- Nearby Villages: If Giethoorn is fully booked, consider staying in the nearby town of Steenwijk, which is just a short bus ride away and offers more accommodation options, including hotels and holiday parks.
Pro Tips for Visiting Giethoorn
Here are some final tips to help you make the most of your trip to Giethoorn!
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for seeing the village at its greenest, but winter offers a unique charm with fewer crowds and the chance to skate on frozen canals.
- Photography: For the best light, plan to capture photos at sunrise or sunset. Early morning is especially tranquil and perfect for uninterrupted shots.
- Pack Comfortable Shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking, especially if you plan to explore beyond the canals.
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FAQs
Is it worth visiting Giethoorn?
Giethoorn is without a doubt, worth visiting. The charming waterway village atop Overijssel is fit for a postcard and looks like something out of a storybook. Aptly nicknamed “The Venice of the Netherlands”, it’s best viewed from the water. So, make sure you include a tour on an electric boat, canoe, or even a traditional boat.
Why is Giethoorn famous?
Giethoorn used to be a pedestrian precinct, but nowadays exceptions are made. It became locally famous, when Dutch filmmaker Bert Haanstra made his famous comedy Fanfare, shot there in 1958.
How deep is the water in Giethoorn?
The canals in Giethoorn are only about a meter deep. Giethoorn has survived over the centuries and is home to just under 3,000 people. Most of the homes in the town are situated on small, private islands and are only connected by over 100 wooden bridges which criss-cross across the landscape.
What is the best time to visit Giethoorn?
The best time to visit Giethoorn is between July and September, when the weather is pleasant enough for boat rides. But you can avoid the crowds and peak season by visiting in October – but you’ll need to be prepared for the cold weather.
How do I get to Giethoorn?
By train. But you should know that there is no train station in Giethoorn. The nearest train station is Steenwijk, followed by Meppel. Depending on the period, trains stop in Steenwijk or Meppel two to four times an hour.
