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.