Discover Giethoorn, the Venice of the North.
Narrow canals, over 180 wooden bridges, thatched roofs and no cars in the old village. The Weerribben-Wieden nature reserve is right next door.
The Venice of the North.
It is no coincidence that Giethoorn is called 'the Venice of the North'. Canals, thatched roofs, wooden bridges and nature as far as the eye can see. We are happy to share our favourite spots with you, so you can make the most of your visit.
Boating through the canals.
The best way to experience Giethoorn: from the water. Hire a whisper boat, take a canal tour or grab a canoe. There are several hire companies nearby. We are happy to point you in the right direction.
Our tip
A 2-hour canal tour is included as standard in our Gieters Pracht Arrangement.
Cycling through National Park Weerribben-Wieden.
The largest marshland area in North-West Europe is literally just around the corner. Cycle paths through reeds, over narrow dykes, alongside water and meadows. Borrow a bike from us and you will be in nature within 5 minutes.
Our favourite cycling routes
- 15 km
Giethoorn circuit
Around 15 km, great for beginners.
- 30 km
Weerribben-Wieden route
30 km through the heart of the park.
- 40 km
Cultural route via Steenwijk
40 km for the more ambitious.
Walking through the village.
Put on your walking shoes and head out. From d'Olde Smidse you can walk to the lively centre of Giethoorn in 10 minutes. Take a break at a terrace along the way, browse the little shops or visit one of the museums.
Our top 5 sights.
Our personal favourites. Feel free to ask at the front desk for current tips.
- 01
Museum farm 't Olde Maat Uus
What Giethoorn used to look like.
- 02
Museum De Oude Aarde
Impressive collection of minerals and fossils.
- 03
Boating through the Giethoorn waterways
Self-sailing, hire a whisper boat or book a canal tour.
- 04
The wooden bridges in the old village
The classic Giethoorn photograph.
- 05
National Park Weerribben-Wieden
Pure nature, on foot, by bike or on the water.
In the rain.
Even when the weather is a bit less kind, there is plenty to do:
Visit the local museums
A covered canal tour
A leisurely meal in our restaurant
An afternoon of shopping in Steenwijk
More questions about Giethoorn?
We are at the front desk to help you on your way. We know all the beautiful spots, special shops and great restaurants (though for the latter, you are obviously welcome to stay with us).