#挑战30天在头条写日记 #
The name Giethoorn is very strange, but for Chinese who often travel overseas, this can be a big famous attraction, a bit like Cinque Terre and the like, very small, is a dream water town, one of the most famous attractions in the Netherlands.
Despite being called the Venice of the Netherlands, I have been to Venice many times and the feeling is very different. Probably the only point of connection is that waterway transportation is the main tool and the scenery is beautiful.
Just because you've been to Giethoorn doesn't mean you've been to Venice. I highly recommend the real Italian Venice travel guide I wrote about (link: Venice, Italy Water City: gondola in the sparkle, San Marco's mask floating on the shore). Venice still has to go to the opportunity, and the sense of shock is different from the quiet Giethoorn.
Moving on to business, Giethoorn is a lovely village in the Netherlands with no roads in the village centre. Therefore, the transportation of locals and tourists in Giethoorn is mainly by water, rather than cars and roads. For this aspect alone, it is usually quick to compare it with Venice in Italy. Just like in the real Venice, you can do almost everything here by boat. However, the "gondola" in Giethoorn is called "punter". Moreover, the boatman with oars has been replaced by the sound of modern motors. Of course, visitors can also hire a rower to propel themselves forward in the old-fashioned way of paddling.
There is really no chance to see cars in the village center. However, outside the village center, some roads and parked cars can often be seen in Giethoorn's car park. Therefore, the story that Giethoorn is a village without roads and cars is not entirely true. But this is indeed very similar to Venice. So it is called "Dutch Venice".
The village has many canals and an exact total of 176 bridges. This can really only be the Dutch version of Venice, as St. Mark's Square or the Grand Canal cannot be found in Giethoorn. Another big difference is the price of the drink or ice cream. That's a little tip. After all, the price of "Dutch Venice" is much lower.
Note that the thatched huts in the center of the village are really inhabited. Please keep your distance and don't go anywhere, especially in private areas.
In Giethoorn, a small Dutch village, the tranquility is dreamlike (in fact, just before the arrival of tourists in large numbers). Because there are no roads, Giethoorn locals and tourists visit in a quiet way: by bike, boat or on foot. In this small village of peat islets connected by bridges, there seems to be little to do but slip into silence between thatched-roof farmhouses and pedestrian bridges that cross a maze of canals. It's not. Isn't it a pleasure to enjoy silence?
Giethoorn village takes its name back to the 13th century (when it seems to have been settled). Legend has it that the first peasant settlers discovered a herd of horns belonging to wild goats, which were destroyed by the flood of 1170. "Goat's Horn" or "Geytenhoren" was abbreviated to Giethoorn, and the name is still used today. For centuries after the Flood, water continues to define the living history and landscape of the village.
In nearby De Weerribben-Wieden National Park, wildlife enthusiasts hike through wetlands and reeds, home to otters, black terns, great cormorants and egrets. Of course, you can cross along the waterway by rowboat and canoe, as well as along the many hiking paths. There is no car noise pollution, and the sounds of nature bring all the senses to life.
History of Giethoorn
The village was artificially created 800 years ago. At that time, the local people created a complete channel system through manual excavation. Later, these "islands" were connected by 176 bridges, on which the current thatched huts were built. Through all this work, they created Giethoorn.
At that time, a "flat-bottomed" could be used to transport everything. The "punt" is one of the oldest surviving vessels: paintings of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries testify to the existence of the current form and name. Today, these "flats" are still in use. Although, they were slowly replaced by electric boats. You can rent a boat at the Giethoorn boat rental.
According to 2020 statistics, there are still 2,795 people living in Giethoorn. More than 1 million tourists from all over the world visit Giethoorn every year. Regardless of the weather, Giethoorn has visitors all year round.
About 100-200 years ago, Giethoorn was poor. So, if the resident had no money at that time, his house would have been covered with reeds. In fact, the opposite is now true. In other words, it is now cheaper to lay tiles on the house than to build it with thatch. However, the residents of Giethoorn are happy to stick to the tradition of thatched huts on roofs. Therefore, they renew the roof every 40 years.
Giethoorn is located in the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, an idyllic village in Overijstel. So, what's so much fun about this Giethoorn?
"Venice of the Netherlands" is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam
Giethoorn awaits you for boat sightseeing, walking and cycling along the canal.
For most travelers, Amsterdam is the starting point for visiting the rest of the Netherlands. Let's say you live in the country's capital, less than a two-hour drive from Giethoorn. From Amsterdam Central Station, take the train to Zwolle or Stinwijk, then transfer to bus 70 to Dominee Hylkemaweg station.
The canals here are very attractive. Most tourists come for the boat ride – after all, it's the most scenic way to soak up all the beauty. This means a huge demand for boats, especially during the peak summer months. With this in mind, it is recommended that you book the boat in advance (though, you don't need a license to be the captain of the day), look for a guide, or book your tickets for group cruises in advance. When winter comes, you can also skate on the frozen waterways.
It's also lovely to explore on land. In accordance with Dutch tradition, Giethoorn has both bike and walking trails, including a 9.5-mile walk that runs through the village and countryside. Many visitors choose to canoe around the lakes, ponds, reed beds and peatlands of the neighboring Verriben-Wyden National Park. There is also an idyllic hiking trail called the Silent Kiersche Wijde Route.
While it's okay to spend a whole day outdoors, it's worth visiting a museum or two. The Giethoorn't Olde Maat Uus Museum brings history to life through words, images and the traditional Gieterse farmhouse. Lovers of fossils and minerals will love a visit to the Museum de Oude Aarde.
Travel tips
To enjoy the golden hour of the day, set your alarm to 6 a.m. and head out along the canal to take photos before the boat goes out to sea. Or, wait until after 6 p.m. when tourists tend to disperse before taking pictures. With this alone, there's a reason to stay overnight at one of the abundant local bed and breakfasts to avoid congestion on the day trip lines.
You can get to Giethoorn by a combination of train and bus. To avoid the crowds, choose April, May, June or September and remember that visiting on weekdays may be best. Although this "Dutch Venice" feels far from the capital Amsterdam, it is only about 75 miles away. The two-hour journey is well worth looking for a feeling of going back in time.
Accommodation in Giethoorn
While most visitors choose to travel from Amsterdam to Giethoorn as a day trip, spending the night in this beautiful village not only gives them the opportunity to wander around before day-trippers head into town, but also to enjoy a moment of tranquility after most people leave for the night.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Giethoorn and the village is crowded during the day, so unless you can arrive early in the morning, you'll be in the crowds all day. That's why it is recommended to book a room, even if it is for one night. It will give you more time to fully enjoy the place.
Accommodation includes small hostels, bed and breakfasts and holiday rentals. De Lindenhof is favored for its characterful rooms, hospitality and gourmet restaurants. Plompeblad Giethoorn is another highly rated option, including residential-style luxury suites and independent guesthouses. Both can comfortably sleep two people and have private entrances.
For budget-conscious travellers, choose the Black Sheep Hostel located in the heart of the village. It has very good reviews and simple but cool décor. For mid-range stayers, you are better off choosing a bed and breakfast, such as De Hofstee. The house has a homely feel and the rooms are spacious.
If you need a little more luxurious accommodation, take a look at the De Dames can De Jonge Hotel. The room was decorated in a traditional Dutch style and was welcoming.
Food in Giethoorn
Giethoorn turns out to be home to a variety of excellent restaurants, many of which are of course located on the beautiful water's edge. The highlight is likely to be De Lindenhof (Beulakerweg 77) with 2 Michelin stars, but Hollands Venetië (Beulakerweg 167) and 't Achterhuus (Dominee TO Hylkemaweg 43) are also highly recommended.
Restaurant 141 attracts many people because of its canal-side location, delicious food and friendly service. De Eetkamer van Giethoorn is a great choice for lunch or dinner. It serves afternoon tea and many desserts and features a pleasant waterside terrace.
Best time to visit Giethoorn
Bottom line: go early and avoid the time when the tour group goes.
In spring and summer, Giethoorn Village is lovely and pleasant. There are flowers blooming there, the grass is greener than in other seasons, and the sun may also be dazzling. However, even in winter, the village has this magical charm and everything looks charming! So, Giethoorn in December is still worth visiting.
Also, if the weather freezes, you can skate on the icy canals, which only makes it even more special.
Be sure to wear a good jacket (gloves and hat) and drink some hot chocolate to warm you up.
All in all, the best time to go to Giethoorn is late April, when it is still a little cold but the sun is shining and there are few people.
Take the train to Giethoorn
From Amsterdam Central Station, take the train to Utrecht Central, then change to the train bound for Leeuwarden and get off at Stenwijk station. After a 2-hour train ride, take bus 270 or 70 to Giethoorn or Zwartsluis and get off at Dominee Hylkemaweg stop (15 minutes). Finally, walk along the street of the same name and you will reach the center of Giethoorn.
Pro tip: Buses are more frequent during the summer months, but if you plan to head to Giethoorn in December or November, you may have to wait longer.
Timetables can be found by downloading the official Dutch public transport app. They show you ticket prices, disruptions, and everything you need to get to any city in the Netherlands by public transport.
Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus and guided tour in Giethoorn. This is the most popular option for getting to Giezohorn from Amsterdam as it is convenient and the bus/shuttle departs from central Amsterdam.
Once you arrive at Giethoorn, you will take a boat trip to the sweet canals with your guide. Don't forget your camera as you will see many very photogenic cabins on board. It was a nice trip.
Things to do in Giethoorn
In Giethoorn, a town without roads, one day is enough to see everything. However, if you can stay one night and wake up by the canal to see a slightly foggy morning, it's pretty awesome, moreover, you can wake up early in the morning and enjoy the village just for you, away from the crowds of visitors:
Cruise the canals
There's nothing better than cruising the canals in Giethoorn. Whether you rent a canoe, kayak or other boat, or take a boat tour, it's an experience you shouldn't miss!
You can rent an electric boat in the morning when the canal is not crowded. Once at the Great Lake, turn off the boat there and relax and enjoy the views. There is a small island in the center of the lake where people can swim and bask in the sun. So if you go there in summer, bring your swimsuit.
Tip: Even if you don't plan to swim, bring a towel with you so you can dip your feet in the water and sway with the waves.
Note that it is normal for boats to collide with each other in the main canal, as many people get confused while sailing, so be careful when holding up your phone or camera to take pictures.
Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the views by taking a 1-hour boat tour of Giethoorn. This option is obviously easier and more comfortable, but you can't spend the whole day on board if you want. It's OK---
Get to know Giethoorn at Museum Giethoorn't Olde Maat Uus
This lively museum is an original Giethoorn farmhouse that showcases the historic Giethoorn village and actors dressed in traditional costumes.
In addition to this, the museum has a nice coffee corner and shop where you can buy souvenirs, books, old Dutch cleaning products and much more.
Ride along the canals
If you can't see a bike anywhere, it's not the Netherlands. There is a long cycle path along the main canal where you can cycle and enjoy the fairytale tranquility, but that's also where people walk. It is highly recommended that you get up early to ride your bike so you can avoid the crowds around 9 to 10 am or even earlier. Considering the number of visitors later in the day, cycling would not be possible.
Pay attention to the bridges you have to cross because they are steep and narrow.
Rare shells and marine-themed goods
At the Gloria Maris Shells Gallery, you can admire the interesting collection of shells. It is a semi-museum and half-shop with a marine theme. However, if you want to buy local handicrafts, you'll love jewelry, clothing, and household items inspired by the sea or made from shells.
Stroll along the canals
Walking along the canal is one of the best activities in Giethoorn, especially when you come to the village early in the morning. This way, you can spend time wandering around and enjoying the views of the cottages and houses.
Take pictures of the view
Get your camera ready! Giethoorn is a fascinating photo hotspot for its cozy thatched houses. In fact, the whole village is a great opportunity to take any photos. Small bridges in the meadows, flowers, cows, everything makes Giethoorn mesmerized.
There is an interesting fact: Giethoorn is included in the international edition of Monopoly along with Amsterdam.
Picnic by the water
Weather permitting, bring your picnic supplies, hop on a small boat and sail down the canal to Lake Bovenwijde and enjoy time in nature on the island there. Many locals go there for picnics in addition to swimming and sunbathing.
Alternatively, you can have a picnic on board. Be sure to park your boat in a quiet area, away from the boat's traffic.
PSSST: Remember not to leave anything behind and keep the area clean.
Drink by the water
If you prefer to stay on land, have a few drinks at one of the restaurants along the main canal. There are more than enough options with a charming terrace that you can't miss it! Also, you can see the fairytale cottage.
Tips for visiting Giethoorn, the Netherlands
- In a tourist destination like the Netherlands, don't expect to pay anything less than the price of the tour. So bringing your own picnic supplies can save some money.
- Respect the locals: Remember that Giethoorn in the Netherlands is a truly inhabited village. So don't litter, don't break in, don't take pictures of people who don't want to be photographed, and treat others the way you want them to be treated like you.