Thatched cottages, narrow bridges and wetlands
Distance: 47 km
Giethoorn, also known as the Venice of the North. Photo © Holland-Cycling.com
This route takes you through the wetlands of National Parks De Weerribben and De Wieden. Much of this water-rich area, formed by turf cutting, is only accessible by bike or boat. Highlight of this route is the farming village of Giethoorn, famous for its thatched cottages, narrow canals and many bridges. As the main means of transport is over water, Giethoorn is also known as the 'Venice of the North'.
From the historic centre of Giethoorn you cycle via the hamlet of Muggenbeet (= 'mosquito bite') and Windmill De Wicher to Ossenzijl. The cycle path along the Kalenbergergracht takes you straight through National Park De Weerribben. You pass through the historic town of Blokzijl before entering National Park De Wieden. Via the villages of Jonen and Dwarsgracht you return to Giethoorn.
To enjoy the wide views of this typically open Dutch landscape, come early in the spring when the reed is still low. It’s also a great time for bird watching. To see the harvesting of the reed you need to come before 1 April.
This route can be combined with our Giethoorn Wieden Cycle Route, giving you a 67 km-trip (4h30) around the whole wetland National Park area. You can download this combined route as a GPX file.
Giethoorn Weerribben Cycle Route |
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| Distance: | 47 km (3h) |
| Type of route: | Daytrip, round trip |
| Starting point: |
Giethoorn Tourist Information |
| GPS: | Download this route as a GPX file. |
Find out more:- For an overview of all of our must-do cycle routes, go to: Day trips.- Do you need to rent a bike? Find out how on our Bicycle rental page. |
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