There are several ways to visit Watergang: on foot, by bicycle, canoe, rowing boat or small motorboat. This lets you plan your visit on land or on the water. Two local conditions are important for boating: the bridges in Watergang are low, and the water is shallow. Keep both in mind when choosing a boat and planning your trip.

Village street and historic buildings

A black tarred hay barn is a distinctive feature of Watergang; the village is also home to the narrowest village street in the Netherlands. Two historic buildings on Dorpsstraat have different dates. The Reformed Church at number 37 is a five-sided building with Gothic features, dating from 1642. Its façade dates from the 19th century, and a small wooden tower sits atop the building. The Hooihuis at number 42 dates from 1881. The comparison shows different historical periods: for the church, the construction date can be distinguished from the date of the façade, while the Hooihuis offers another historical reference point through its construction date.

Varkensland and its nature

Varkensland, also known as Watergangse veld, is part of the Ilperveld, Varkensland, Oostzanerveld & Twiske Natura 2000 area. Special meadow birds nest in Varkensland; it is also home to peat moss fen areas with wild orchids and other plants. This brings two distinct aspects of nature into focus: birdlife and plant life. If you are planning a trip through Varkensland, be aware of seasonal trail restrictions: they can change, so it is advisable to check the latest information before your visit.

Routes with different itineraries

The Laarzenpadroute runs from Broek in Waterland along the Broekervaart through the Varkensland nature reserve. The Rondom Watergangroute is a varied cycling tour around the old boating village of Watergang, through Ilperveld and Het Twiske, and along the Gouwzee. This route uses a ferry twice. The routes therefore differ both in their itineraries and in their focus: the Laarzenpadroute goes through the nature reserve, while the Rondom Watergangroute is specifically a cycling tour and includes two ferry crossings. Check the ferry times before setting out so you can take these crossings into account when planning your trip.

An audio tour with eleven stops

Another option is the free, self-guided Ilpendam & Watergang audio tour. It has eleven stops, and an audio story plays automatically upon arrival at each one. The stops give the tour a clear structure and make it a standalone option alongside the routes. For your visit, you can choose between village history, nature, a cycling tour with ferry crossings, and the self-guided audio format.

Discover more destinations: Marken, Purmer, Monnickendam, Broek In Waterland, Zuiderwoude, Ilpendam, Katwoude, Uitdam

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