The Quiet Miracle of the Netherlands: Giethoorn, a Village Where You Glide Instead of Walk

Can you imagine a village with no cars, no asphalt roads, and even the mailman delivers letters by boat? This is not a dream but a reality in the Netherlands' "Giethoorn." Here, your mode of transportation isn't your feet but a serene little boat.

📜【The History and Origins of Giethoorn】

The charming name "Giethoorn" dates back to the 13th century. Early settlers reportedly unearthed numerous goat horns while cultivating the peatlands (Giethoorn derives from the Dutch word "geitenhoorn," meaning "goat horn"), and thus the village got its name.

Originally a quiet peat extraction site, the construction of canals led villagers to develop a "boat commuting" lifestyle. To this day, the waterways remain the lifeblood of the village.

🌿【Village Features｜A Peaceful World Without Cars】

Giethoorn is most famous for its canals, wooden bridges, and thatched-roof houses. The entire village resembles a water maze, with small rivers in front of every house. Cars can't enter, making bicycles and boats the stars of the show.

I rented a "silent electric boat," steered it myself, and slowly glided along the canals. On both sides were lush gardens, dreamy thatched roofs, and ducks paddling across the water. Everything was so tranquil that I dared not speak too loudly, afraid of disturbing the peace.

🚗【How to Get There】

Although there are no cars in the village, getting here is surprisingly easy!

📍 From Amsterdam:
• Take a train to Steenwijk station (about 2 hours)
• Transfer to Bus 70 (about 20 minutes) directly to the entrance of Giethoorn

🚲 Once in the village, you can:
• Walk (perfect for taking photos leisurely)
• Rent a boat (self-drive or guided tours available)
• Rent a bicycle (cycling along the green paths outside the village is super relaxing)

📌 Tip: During peak seasons (spring and summer), be sure to book your boat rental in advance, or you might end up watching others row from the bridge!

📸【Must-Do & Must-See】
1. Arch Bridge Photo Spots: Every little bridge looks like a movie set—stand on one for dreamy photos.
2. Self-Drive Boat Experience: Even if you’ve never steered a boat, it’s super easy to operate (just don’t crash into walls XD).
3. Glass Museum (Het Olde Maat Uus): Showcasing local history, traditional costumes, and old house structures—a must-visit for deeper insights into the area.
4. Waterside Cafés: Some cafés are built right by the canals—dock your boat, grab a hot cocoa or beer, and enjoy the slow-paced life.

🧭【Nearby Attractions】

🏞️ Weerribben-Wieden National Park

Less than a 30-minute drive from Giethoorn, this is the largest wetland reserve in the Netherlands, featuring abundant wildlife and reed landscapes. You can rent a canoe for an adventurous exploration—paradise for nature lovers.

🏛️ Zwolle Old Town

On your way back, plan a visit to Zwolle’s old town. This well-preserved medieval city boasts churches, markets, bookstores, and charming dessert cafés—perfect for a half-day trip.

🍽️【Food Recommendations】

Though Giethoorn is a small village, it’s packed with delightful restaurants. Here are a few I personally tried:
• De Grachthof: A super popular canal-side restaurant—try the Dutch pancakes (Pannenkoeken) with beer while watching boats pass by.
• Grand Café Fanfare: One of the oldest restaurants in the village, named after the classic Dutch film "Fanfare" shot here in 1958.
• Hot & Cold Crepe Stalls: A sweet treat to enjoy while strolling—strawberry and whipped cream versions are the most popular.

💖【Traveler’s Reflection】

Giethoorn is a practice in "slowing down." No traffic lights, no honking horns—just the sound of water and wind accompanying your journey.
If you’re looking to escape the urban hustle, three hours here feel more rejuvenating than a whole day of unwinding.
I turned my phone to silent mode, leaving only the picturesque scenes before me and the quiet in my heart.