National Park Weerribben-Wieden and Giethoorn

The Landscape

The landscape of National Park Weerribben-Wieden is a unique mosaic of water, reeds, and land shaped by centuries of peat cutting and the power of nature. Here you cycle through the largest continuous low-lying peat bog area in Northwest Europe. Long, narrow peat canals separated by slender raised strips of land alternate with waving reed fields and flower-rich meadows across the terrain. Water is everywhere: quiet canals and winding ditches cut through the landscape, which hides dense swamp forests and peat moss reed beds. Characteristic thatched farmhouses and workers’ cottages still recall the hard lives of peat cutters and reed harvesters.

Giethoorn is located in the heart of De Wieden and is world-famous for its canals, wooden bridges, and thatched farmhouses. The village, often called the “Venice of the Netherlands,” was founded in the Middle Ages through peat cutting. This created a distinctive watery landscape of narrow lakes, canals, and pools. Transportation mainly took place on the water, with the slender punter boat becoming a symbol of the village. Today, Giethoorn attracts visitors from all over the world. Despite the crowds, the authentic atmosphere remains: the gentle lapping of the water, the scent of reeds and wood, and the peaceful quiet you find just outside the village center.