Giethoorn
Giethoorn
Giethoorn, often called the 'Venice of the North', is a stunning village in the Dutch province of Overijssel. What makes this place unique is its lack of roads - instead, the village is connected by over 150 small bridges and a network of canals. The charming thatched-roof farmhouses sit on tiny islands, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that seems frozen in time.
The village dates back to the 13th century when peat harvesters discovered the area. They dug out peat for fuel, leaving behind lakes and ponds, which the locals then connected with canals to transport their goods. Today, these waterways form the backbone of Giethoorn's transportation system, with traditional punter boats silently gliding through the clear waters.
Giethoorn may be small, with just around 2,600 residents, but it packs plenty of character. The Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus offers insights into the village's history, showcasing how locals lived and worked centuries ago. The surrounding De Weerribben-Wieden National Park, the largest bog area in northwestern Europe, provides a stunning natural backdrop to this picture-perfect village.
Despite its peaceful appearance today, Giethoorn has a fascinating past connected to a religious group called the Flagellants, who settled here in the 18th century. The name 'Giethoorn' itself has a curious origin - it means 'Goat Horn', named after the many goat horns found when the first settlers arrived. These horns were remnants of a 10th-century flood that had killed many goats in the area.
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Things to do in Giethoorn
Top things to do in Giethoorn by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Giethoorn
Best hotels in Giethoorn:
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Hotel de Harmonie (medium range hotel)
Hotel de Harmonie the rooms offer great views of either the water or the nearby nature reserve. It's got a laid-back vibe that's perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.
The hotel has all the essentials covered - free WiFi, spacious rooms, and a tasty breakfast buffet to start your day. But the real highlight is the location. You can sit out on the waterside terrace, rent a boat or bike to explore, or just wander around the picturesque village. The restaurant serves up local specialties if you want to try some authentic Dutch cuisine.
It's a bit outside the busy center, so you get a quieter, more local feel. But you're still just a short drive from the highway if you want to venture further. Overall, it's a cozy home base for experiencing the unique beauty of Giethoorn and the surrounding area.
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Best hostels in Giethoorn:
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The Black Sheep (hostel)
The Black Sheep in Giethoorn is a charming hostel located right on the main canal in this picturesque Dutch village. With its prime spot along the waterway, it offers guests amazing views and easy access to boat rentals and restaurants just across the canal. The hostel has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that's perfect for solo travelers or groups looking to explore this unique car-free town.
Inside, you'll find comfy rooms with shared bathrooms, plus a well-equipped communal kitchen for whipping up meals. The free breakfast is a nice perk to fuel up before a day of sightseeing. With free WiFi throughout and helpful multilingual staff, it's easy to feel at home here. The outdoor terrace and garden are great spots to relax and chat with other guests after a day of cycling or boating through Giethoorn's scenic canals.