Grafhorst lies on the Ganzendiep; several hiking trails in the IJsseldelta start here or pass through the village. The distances and trail features provide specific points of reference for planning. The Veerplein, with its views of Kampereiland, and the village’s history also shape your stay.

Hiking and Cycling

Grafhorst is the starting point for several hiking trails in the IJsseldelta. Two of them begin at the Mandjeswaard trailhead on Kamperzeedijk 29. The yellow route is 5.0 kilometres long and crosses the Goot twice. The red route is 9.4 kilometres long and runs almost entirely on paved surfaces. You can start by comparing the two by distance; the crossings and surface provide further specific differences.

Another option is stage 16 of the Zuiderzeepad: in Grafhorst, it follows the Ganzendiep and passes through the Zuiderzeepolder. Before hiking stage 16 of the Zuiderzeepad, check the current route, trail conditions and markings, as route conditions can change.

There is also a cycling loop from Grafhorst that crosses Kampereiland, takes the ferry across the Ganzendiep to Mandjeswaard and returns via Kamperzeedijk. If you plan to ride this loop, check the ferry service in advance. This makes it easy to distinguish the cycling route from the hiking trails described above: it crosses the water and includes the return ride via Kamperzeedijk.

Ganzendiep and Veerplein

The Ganzendiep is about 9 kilometres long and flows into the Zwarte Meer. The stretch between Ganzensluis and Goot is designated exclusively as a waterway for recreational boating. In the centre of Grafhorst, there is a purpose-built swimming area on the Ganzendiep, where young people can relax in summer.

The Veerplein and its immediate surroundings are considered Grafhorst’s only public space on the Ganzendiep. The square offers panoramic views across the open landscape of Kampereiland. A foot ferry from Grafhorst to Kampereiland used to dock at the open square on the Ganzendiep, where today’s Voorstraat and Achterstraat meet. The former ferry service and today’s views across the landscape give the waterfront distinct historical and scenic facets.

Local History and Architecture

Grafhorst developed on a sandy ridge along the Ganzendiep, a former branch of the IJsseldelta. In 1333, the town was granted city rights by the Bishop of Utrecht, but it never developed into a walled town. A major fire destroyed almost all of Grafhorst in 1849. These key dates mark different chapters in the town’s history: the early grant of city rights, its distinctive development and the profound impact of the fire.

The church of the Hervormde community is also part of the town’s history. It was built using local funds and through the community’s own efforts, and was put into use on 1 February 1962. The date and local involvement give the building’s history a concrete connection to the town.

Biestemarkt in October

The traditional Biestemarkt dates back to 1333 and is now celebrated without livestock. It takes place every year on the second Tuesday in October and is organised by the Vereniging Dorpsbelangen Grafhorst. If you want to plan your trip around the market, check the date in advance. This lets you time your stay to coincide with the recurring market day, without mistaking the market for a year-round attraction.

Discover more destinations: Zalk, Kamperveen, IJsselmuiden, Kampen.

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