Thatched cottages, lakes and wetlands
Distance: 36 km
Cycling through National Park De Wieden. Photo © Holland-Cycling.com
This route takes you through the wetlands of National Park 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 villages of Westeinde and Belt-Schutsloot to Sint-Jansklooster with its striking water tower that you can see in the distance over the lakes Belterwijde and Beulakerwijde. 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 the Giethoorn Weerribben 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 Wieden Cycle Route |
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| Distance: | 36 km (2h20) |
| 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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