Giethoorn

Giethoorn is a beautiful village located in the Kop van Overijssel region.
It lies between Steenwijk and Meppel and has around 2,600 inhabitants. Giethoorn became famous for its many bridges, waterways and traditional punter boats. Because of this unique landscape, Giethoorn is often called the Dutch Venice. For tourists, it is a stunning destination thanks to its charming and authentic character. There are also many sights and attractions to discover in and around the village.

The Origin of Giethoorn

The many bridges, waterways and punters in Giethoorn are a direct result of peat excavation. When the Zuiderzee flooded, the excavated peat pits filled with water, forming the lakes and ponds that surround the village today. Canals and ditches were dug to transport the peat by boat. As a result, many houses in Giethoorn were built on islands that can only be reached by bridges.

Giethoorn became the first peat colony in the Netherlands. It was created by the Flagellants, a group that settled in the area around the year 1200. During the peat digging, many goat horns were found, leading to the original name Geythorn. Over time, and through the local dialect, this evolved into Giethoorn. We found the old name so beautiful that we named our cafeteria after it.

Traffic and Transportation in Giethoorn

Today, most transportation in Giethoorn takes place on the water. The most common means of transport is an electric whisper boat or a traditional
punter, similar to those used in Venice, Italy.
A traditional punter is made of oak wood and is propelled with a punter pole — a long wooden pole used to push the boat forward. Historically, punters were the easiest way to transport hay and livestock.

Alongside the famous village canal runs a bicycle and walking path. In the old part of the village, cars are not allowed, preserving the peaceful atmosphere and unique charm of Giethoorn.