Kolhorn brings together dikes and water with traces of its fishing and architectural history. The KH44 and several monuments tell the story of the village; the Vaarroute rondje Kolhorn offers a perspective from the water. When planning your stay, you can combine cultural history with walks or paddling; for the night market, choosing a suitable summer date is essential.
Dike, Village Character and Fishing History
Kolhorn’s protected village character is shaped by the interplay of dikes and water, streets and paths, and the buildings alongside them. The Westfriesedijk itself is a provincial monument. Five historic, black-tarred wooden sheds dating from the 19th century also stand by the dike; they are listed national monuments. Kolhorn’s architectural character can thus be understood not only through individual monuments, but also through their relationship to the village as a whole.
The KH44, the only surviving vessel from Kolhorn’s once extensive fishing fleet, is a Varend Monument (Sailing Monument). The monument at Kerkepad 3 has a tower with a simple, eight-sided spire. The tower houses a bell cast by Willam Butendiic in 1418, measuring 107 cm in diameter, and a mechanical clock mechanism dating from around 1780. Two points in time stand side by side in this tower: the bell from the early 15th century and the clock mechanism from around 1780.
The Laurenskerk is also a listed national monument and is used for concerts, exhibitions and weddings. If you want a specific event to shape your stay, check the relevant date in advance. Museum De Turfschuur is housed in one of Kolhorn’s surviving historic peat sheds.
Walking and Paddling
There are three themed walking routes in Kolhorn. You can choose between a free digital edition and a printed edition for a small fee. Guided walks for groups of four or more are also currently available. If you are considering a guided walk, confirm availability and the date in advance.
On the water, the Vaarroute rondje Kolhorn is suitable for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The route was created recently and has three jetties where you can take short breaks. This gives you different ways to explore: themed walks on foot or a paddling trip along the water route. Check local conditions before setting off.
Summer Date and Award
The Nachtmarkt Kolhorn (Kolhorn Night Market) takes place on three summer evenings each year as an evening market through the protected old village centre. If you want to plan your trip around it, check the dates for your chosen year in advance.
In 2026, Jachthaven Kolhorn received the international Blue Flag environmental award. The Blue Flag is assessed annually and stands for a clean, safe and sustainable facility. Together with the former fishing fleet, this creates a contrast in time between Kolhorn’s maritime past and an award received in 2026.
Discover more destinations: Barsingerhorn, Wieringerwaard, Westerland, Kreileroord, Winkel, Hippolytushoef.
Return to the main travel overview: Hollands Kroon.
