When you think of Giethoorn, you think of sailing. This village in the province of Overijssel is known for its many waterways, bridges, and punts- 176 bridges, to be precise.
Therefore, if you want to explore Giethoorn you will have to take the boat. All the more reason to seek out sailing adventure in Giethoorn, albeit with a slight twist.
Giethoorn as a site for tourist attraction
Giethoorn, also known as the Venice of the Netherlands, is a renowned tourist destination, recognized worldwide. The Chinese in particular are crazy about Giethoorn and will travel a long way to sail through the canals of this idyllic village in a boat. And the selfies for the home front are not forgotten. So you can imagine that it is often very busy, especially in the center.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds of tourists but still wish to admire the thatched farms from the water, this blog offers several alternative tips for sailing in Giethoorn.
The other side of Giethoorn
If you're keen on sailing around Giethoorn, the options are plentiful. At every corner, or rather along every bank, you'll encounter a boat rental company where you can easily hire a boat. They offer a range of choices, from whisper boats to salon boats complete with food and drinks—nothing is too extravagant.
If you're looking to steer clear of the crowded canals or explore the less frequented areas of Giethoorn, consider renting your boat from Giethoorn Village. Situated on the north side of the village, this rental company boasts a spacious parking lot where you can conveniently park your car for free. Additionally, they offer various sailing routes and are likely to have a boat that suits your requirements.
Sailing in a whisper boat is truly delightful and incredibly straightforward. With a maximum speed of just 6 kilometers per hour, it's suitable for anyone. Upon rental, you'll receive a map outlining sailing routes and instructions on boat handling. Beyond that, you can leisurely soak in the tranquility, spaciousness, and cheerful chirping of water birds. As you navigate, you'll not only pass by charming houses with thatched roofs and meticulously maintained gardens but also have the opportunity to explore parts of the Weerribben Natural Park—an experience unique to Giethoorn.
Evening cruise through deserted Giethoorn
The same goes for an evening cruise through an (almost) deserted Giethoorn. Once the tourists have departed or are dining in the numerous restaurants, a serene blanket descends upon this picturesque village. It's the perfect time for a boat tour accompanied by a guide.
The ambiance transforms entirely in the evening. With fewer boats around, you have ample opportunity to appreciate the intricate details of the houses. You'll notice that most farms are separated by ditches with decking connecting the gardens. It becomes apparent now that some farms have a bump, indicating that the barn is higher than the house—a characteristic feature of Giethoorn known as the “humpback whale farm.”
There's also much to learn about peat extraction. The excavation of peat in the vicinity of Giethoorn resulted in the formation of ponds and lakes. Canals and ditches were dug to facilitate the transportation of peat. The houses are situated on islands accessible only via bridges. The sole thoroughfare through the old village is a cycling and walking path extending from Noordeinde to Zuideinde. The rest of the traffic traverses the waterways, once done using traditional punts propelled by a punter tree, but now sailing in Giethoorn has evolved into a more modern experience.
Tips and facts for your stay in Giethoorn
You should consider spending a tourist day in Giethoorn at least once. And with these tips, you'll get to explore the lesser-known aspects of this beautiful village.
- Travel: If the bustling center of the village is too crowded for your liking, head to the quieter north side. Near Hotel de Harmonie, renting a boat will lead you to much calmer waters. Plus, you can conveniently park for free at Beukelakerweg 55.
- Sleeping: Whether you fancy staying along the romantic canals or opting for a night in a thatched farmhouse or at the Weerribben National Park, Booking.com offers plenty of options. Alternatively, you can book a holiday home at the Giethoorn holiday park.
- Food & drinks: Planning to book a boat for the whole day? Consider having a picnic along the way with your provisions or opt for a relaxed lunch at one of the many restaurants. Don't miss out on reserving a table at Fratelli restaurant: the loveliest Italian spot in Giethoorn's charming setting.
- Advance booking: To ensure a hassle-free experience, I recommend reserving your boat in advance.
- Exploring: If you're keen on exploring the natural reserves around Giethoorn, consider canoeing in the Weerribben National Park or taking a leisurely walk (with or without your dog) through De Wieden.
- Museum visit: If you have a museum annual pass, entrance to the Giethoorn Museum is completely free.
- Embrace the tourist spirit: For a truly immersive experience, why not dress up in traditional costume and capture the moment?