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Rediscover old-world charm and slow travel through scenic boat rides and bicycles through Giethoorn's canals and streets.
After enduring months of an unrelenting work routine, I yearned for a break from the daily grind of digital cacophony and ceaseless connectivity. Seeking solitude, I embarked on a journey to Giethoorn—a car-free village about 119 km away from the bustling streets of Amsterdam, where simplicity reigns supreme and the pace of life mirrors the bygone days. Join me as I recount my meandering walks, tranquil boat rides, quaint cottages, canal-side cafes, and captivating cruises in Giethoorn. I ventured into this timeless village, often hailed as the "Little Venice", armed with wonder and a yearning for the simplicity of an era devoid of smartphones, laptops, and GPS.
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Before I began my electronic device-free journey, I left my laptop and smartphone in the care of a trusted friend in Amsterdam. My journey to Giethoorn commenced aboard the last train to Zwolle, departing around 11:30 pm. While the quickest route to Giethoorn from Amsterdam involves a cab ride, costing approximately € 250 to € 300 and taking about an hour and a half, I chose a different path. I opted for the train, which allowed me to savour the essence of continental rail travel and reduce my carbon footprint. 90 minutes later, I arrived at Zwolle station—a Dutch architectural marvel fusing efficiency and aesthetics seamlessly. Awaiting me outside the station was a cab that would transport me to Giethoorn in 33 minutes. This ride came with a price tag of € 110.
I arrived in the village at around 2 am. Despite the darkness, Giethoorn's charm shone through. Silhouettes of flowers adorned the canals. The cottage lights twinkled like stars, and the gentle murmur of water in the crisp night air was picture-perfect. I looked around and enjoyed the view without the distraction of taking a million pictures using my smartphone. As I reached my hotel, the long day took its toll on me, and I fell asleep in minutes.
The following morning, I watched the rising sun shine upon Giethoorn, giving it an ethereal glow. My hotel was a picturesque place with a thatched roof, wooden frame, and earth-toned façades. There was a timeless appeal to this place. The giant window in my room offered amazing views of the village. I sat by the window and enjoyed the complimentary breakfast that included eggs and freshly baked bread. After breakfast, I had a boat ride that awaited me. I was all set to explore all that Giethoorn had to offer.
Giethoorn offers a diverse array of boating options. For my exploration of Giethoorn's enchanting waterways, I opted for a wooden 'fluisterboot' known as a whisper boat. This electrically powered vessel, ideal for those seeking a tranquil experience, accommodated my journey alongside a family of three. It was a delightful choice, costing me € 30 for two hours of unhurried exploration. The dainty cottages lining the canal were reminiscent of a charming tableau adorned with colourful blooms in window boxes. I passed beneath arching bridges, and occasional ripples from passing ducks or fish added a touch of whimsy to my journey. It was a wonderful chance for me to enjoy the scenery—the rustling trees and the oars gently lapping the canal waters as the world went by. My guide, Mike, said that Giethoorn was once home to farmers who unearthed wild goat horns in their soil, thus earning this enchanting place the name 'Geytenhoren' or 'goat horn'. As we ended the boat tour, Mike recommended a visit to the Het Olde Maat Uus museum, where a Giethoorn farmhouse stands as a historical treasure.
After exploring the village by water, I embarked on a bicycle journey through the village. I enjoyed the ride through the quaint village full of cosy cottages, canals, and wooden bridges along the Binnenpad, embracing the essence of old-world travel. Cycling built my appetite, prompting me to explore canal-side restaurants for a delectable feast. I made my way to the Hotel Brasserie de Pergola, a bustling eatery filled with locals and fellow travellers. The air was filled with the aroma of honey-dipped crepes, chocolate pancakes, and cold coffee. I ordered a cold coffee and chocolate pancakes. Every bite of the pancake was filled with the goodness of chocolate syrup and chocolate chips.
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