Giethoorn, Netherlands

Giethoorn is a small enchanted village of fairytale-like homes huddled along narrow canals. Stroll or float through this charming community crisscrossed with over 170 wooden bridges. This is an extraordinary Dutch excursion!

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Quaint Water Village of Giethoorn, Netherlands - Encircle Photos

1 Quaint Water Village of Giethoorn, Netherlands

Imagine a water village of less than 2,700 people. They live along narrow canals in fairytale houses with thatched roofs and painted shutters. Surrounding them are impeccable lawns and blooming flowers. Most homes are only reachable by wooden boat or small bridge. Charming! Delightful! Quaint! This only begins to describe the unique experience of visiting Giethoorn. The original name was Geytenhoren when first settled in 1230. This was a reference to goat horns found below the surface from an ancient flood.

Binnenpad 21, 8355 BR Giethoorn, Netherlands
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Venice of the Netherlands at Giethoorn, Netherlands - Encircle Photos

2 Venice of the Netherlands at Giethoorn, Netherlands

Giethoorn is about a 90 minute drive from Amsterdam in Overijssel Province. After parking, the rest is easy. No need for maps or guides. Simply stroll left or right along Binnenpad. This pedestrian-only walkway hugs one side of the main canal. You will frequently cross over it on rudimentary bridges. You can also wander down side canals. The 175 bridges and multiple canals spawned the nickname Venice of the Netherlands. Plan on spending at least a couple of hours exploring Giethoorn.

Binnenpad 33, 8355 BR Giethoorn, Netherlands
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Sightseeing Boat on Canal in Giethoorn, Netherlands - Encircle Photos

3 Sightseeing Boat on Canal in Giethoorn, Netherlands

The entire walking distance through Giethoorn is about 2.5 miles. Some people prefer a sightseeing cruise. The knowledgeable drivers love describing their village. Another option is to rent a whisper boat. They are a simple rowboat with a small quiet motor. This is a fun way to set your own pace. The only downfall is on busy days when the canals are filled with inexperienced drivers. Navigating the traffic can be a bit tricky and often slow.

Binnenpad 40, 8355 BS Giethoorn, Netherlands
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Things to Do in Giethoorn, Netherlands - Encircle Photos

4 Things to Do in Giethoorn, Netherlands

The main attraction in Giethoorn is admiring the rows of enchanting thatched homes adorning the canals. Some of these are farm houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Yet there are plenty of other things to do. Visit Punter Yard Wildeboer, a shipyard that still builds traditional punters like the boat in the foreground. Succumb to an enticing menu at one of several cafes and restaurants. Sip a cold Dutch beer to cool off on a hot afternoon. Peek inside boutique shops. Or simply watch passing swans and people from the comfort of a bench while licking an ice cream cone. If you visit in the winter, plan on skating down the frozen canals with the local children.

Beulakerweg 48, 8355 AJ Giethoorn, Netherlands
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Visit Living Farm and Park in Giethoorn, Netherlands - Encircle Photos

5 Visit Living Farm and Park in Giethoorn, Netherlands

If you have extra time, here are two recommendations. Visit Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus. This is a living farm complete with period-costumed volunteers. You will learn how the area once prospered by cutting and drying peat for fuel. Giethoorn specialized in a hard peat called sponturf. You will also tour a farmhouse, boathouse and fisherman’s house. Nature lovers and bird watchers enjoy renting a boat or canoe to float through National Park Weerribben-Wieden, Europe’s largest fenland (shallow march).

Binnenpad 52, 8355 BT Giethoorn, Netherlands
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