Wijdenes

Hoorn was once one of the most powerful trading cities of the Republic, and you can still see that reflected in the city center. You walk past historic ships in the harbor, grab a seat on a terrace at the Roode Steen, and then dive into the narrow streets. Along the way, you read stories about the VOC era that began here on façades and street signs. After wandering around, choose one of the restaurants for a late lunch or an early dinner.

Three walking routes depart almost directly from the village of Wijdenes: along the Markermeer, through historic village ribbons and over the West Frisian Ring Dike. Along the way you pass farmhouses, windmills and expansive polders stretching as far as you can see. The routes are well signposted and connect to one another, so you can decide the length yourself. Please note: dogs are not allowed on these routes.

Enkhuizen is a former VOC city that has largely preserved its seventeenth-century character. Inside the old fortress wall you will find dozens of national monuments and street names that directly refer back to the trading period. You can stroll past special shops, step into a museum or find a terrace by the harbour. If you come by bike, you will ride along the dike with a view over the IJsselmeer. If you come by boat, you will dock in the historic harbour itself.