Wide views across the IJsselmeer meet farmland and characteristic Stolp farmhouses in Drechterland. This combination of waterside scenery and rural life shapes the character of the area. It is particularly easy to see in the Drachterveld, where trails for various activities run alongside a water storage area and natural areas.
The Drachterveld: Trails and Nature
Between Oosterblokker and Westwoud, the Drachterveld offers cycling and walking trails. The area also includes a 22-hectare water storage area, which offers opportunities for walking, cycling and boating. For boat trips, the Drachterveld includes a route in the direction of Bangert-Oosterpolder. A nesting wall for sand martins also makes birdlife part of this landscape.
A nature area beside Uiterdijk is home to waterbirds and meadow birds; various bird species can be seen there throughout the year. If you want to plan your own cycling tour, you can use Drechterland’s cycle junctions: information boards or a junction map can help with route planning. The network may change over time, so check the information before setting out.
Waterfront Activities Around Wijdenes
On the water along the Westfriese Omringdijk, Haven Wijdenes is a stopping place for boat trips, walks and cycle rides. At the harbour in Wijdenes on the Markermeer, you can sunbathe, fish and moor your boat. In Schellinkhout, Uiterdijk is on the Markermeer and offers opportunities for swimming and surfing. Water conditions vary, so take them into account when planning your visit.
You can also explore the landscape beyond the waterfront according to your interests. Stalls along roads in Drechterland sell seasonal flowers, fruit and vegetables fresh from the land. The selection depends on the season, and individual stalls may change.
Windmills, Churches and Local History
De Stofmolen is a grain mill dating from 1911. It was restored in 2004 and 2005 and has been operational ever since. You can visit the interior by appointment, provided the mill is open to the public. Check in advance whether a visit is possible.
In Oosterleek, the Hervormde Kerk tells the story of several phases of construction: the simple hall church was built around 1690 and extensively renovated in 1875. Noteworthy details include a modern oak pulpit with 17th-century carvings. The town hall in Schellinkhout dates from 1765; its old council chamber has tiled walls and murals from 1782. The building is currently used as a library, so access to the interior is limited.
The Beatles Monument commemorates the Beatles’ performance on 6 June 1964 in the auction halls of Blokker. It is in a public space and freely accessible; check local conditions before travelling. The water tower offers another architectural highlight: it dates from 1930, is built of red brick and has a twelve-sided floor plan. Its design is reminiscent of the Amsterdam School.
More Ideas for Your Stay
If you’re planning a walk, consider the NS walking route De Weelen. It starts at Hoogkarspel station, passes through the De Weelen nature reserve and ends in Enkhuizen. Check the route details before setting out.
Het Streekbad is an outdoor swimming pool in Hoogkarspel. Seasonal opening times and admission rules may change; check the current conditions before your visit. For golf enthusiasts, Westfriese Golfclub offers a par-71 course for players of all abilities. The brasserie, with its terrace and views of the 18th hole, is also open to non-golfers. As facility information may change, it is advisable to check before visiting.
De VertelTuin combines indoor and outdoor storytelling and readings with a 1.5-hectare park. Between storytelling events, visitors can walk along nature trails; activities are aimed at groups and families. The programme and booking options may change, so it is a good idea to enquire in advance.
Discover more destinations: Schellinkhout, Venhuizen, Hem, Hoogkarspel, Wijdenes, Westwoud, Oosterleek, Diemen.
Return to the main travel overview: North Holland.
