Giethoorn Netherlands

Giethoorn, Holland: Where the Streets Are Made of Water

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In the heart of Weeribben-Wieden National Park lies a town whose streets are made of water in the name of Giethoorn, Netherlands. Having been located approximately 75 miles in the North of Amsterdam, this town is not well-known as its counterpart European cities.

Imagine a town where there is no air pollution from the vehicles, a town where there are no annoying horns, a town where are no traffic lights, no aggressive drivers. Of course, you will want to see how things work around here. Read on to find out more about Giethoorn.

Things you don’t know about Giethoorn

Giethoorn is typically surrounded by water hence known as the town where the streets are made of water. It can be one of the best destinations to go during winter if you are an avid ice skater. You will enjoy skating across the frozen waters in this Dutch town. When we say that this town is surrounded by water, we mean that water canals have replaced all the roads of this town.

In this town, the only available means of transport is by water using a boat, road using a bicycle or on foot. They don’t have vehicles around here. This town has over 180 footbridges that make it possible for people to navigate around the town.

The romantic feeling that surrounds this beautiful town has made many people call it Dutch Venice. Although its population is relatively low, it is an excellent place which most tourists have not yet discovered. It is an exciting place to explore Giethoorn village and town using ice skates during winter or using boats and canoes during summer in the 4 miles canals.

Canals of  Giethoorn

Giethoorn is too quiet and serene that it doesn’t seem real until you visit it. The loudest noise you will probably hear in the Dutch Venice is the quacking of ducks and chattering of other birds. That should tell you that the weather in Giethoorn is excellent for both locals and tourists.

The town got its name from many goat horns (gietehorens) that were discovered in the place by the first inhabitants. Of course, you can’t find any goat horn currently only quiet green areas all around. You can spend your afternoon in the Giethoorn hotel and restaurant of your choice, which is mostly by the canal-sides.

You can visit the museums and the Schreur shipyard for more adventures. Ticket bar can be your tour guide through this town due to their vast experience in this field. They will ensure you get the right boat and cruise. Their accommodations are excellent with entertainment places.

Conclusion

You can explore Giethoorn best by using a canal cruise. As a visitor, you have local skippers who will guide and show you excellent places. It is advisable you book your cruise early to avoid jam from the many tourists who are discovering this town.

Do you know of any other tourist destination town in the world that is surrounded by water canals as its transport system? Let us know in the comments.

Author Bio: Thomas Glare is always prepared for the next expedition. He travels to try different cuisines around the world. He has lived in two continents. You can follow him for travel guides and destination hints. Some of his articles were included here.