Water, reeds and woodland define Steenwijkerland, interspersed with picturesque towns and villages. These landscapes alternate across 330 km². At the heart of Steenwijkerland lies Weerribben-Wieden National Park. The contrast between higher-lying areas and lower-lying wetlands is particularly appealing when planning a trip.
Wetlands and higher ground
Woodlands, heath and sand characterize the higher-lying landscapes, while the Weerribben and Wieden form lower-lying wetlands. The diverse landscapes are within cycling and walking distance of one another. The region's varied scenery also includes glacial ridge hills, small peat lakes, gently rolling fields and polders. Open expanses of water and reeds sit alongside wooded and agricultural areas.
De Wieden is a preserved wetland landscape with large expanses of open water, pools, winding ditches and floating land. Rare plants and animals can be found there. Those interested in the landforms and habitats of a wetland will find a clear contrast here to the higher-lying woodlands and heathland.
Boat trips and views
The De Wieden Visitor Centre in Sint Jansklooster is a starting point for an excursion into Weerribben-Wieden National Park. It provides information about routes, boat trips and activities for children. Boat trips are also offered in De Wieden, accompanied by rangers or nature guides; the programme may change.
The Weerribben Information Centre in Ossenzijl is another starting point for exploring the waterways: from there, trips into the national park are available by covered excursion boat, whisper boat or canoe. The Waterbus connects the De Wieden Visitor Centre with Blokzijl and Giethoorn; bicycles can be taken on board. As operating hours may change, it is advisable to check the timetable in advance.
In Steenwijk, the Steenwijker Tower offers a different perspective on the surrounding area. The 89-metre-high tower has 226 spiral-staircase steps; the climb leads to an observation terrace 43 metres above the ground. From there, the panorama stretches in every direction. Opening hours may change, so check the current hours before your visit.
Town history and architecture
The Steenwijk City Museum offers insights into the town's history and culture. Its six core collections include Eskaf ceramics, Wildebras dolls, Monsieur furniture and Bijkamp silver, as well as Steenwijk's tobacco industry and its fortified town. The museum offers guided walking tours of about 1.5 hours. They cover, among other things, Steenwijk's history and its strategic role during the Eighty Years' War; check the booking conditions in advance.
Another historic building in Steenwijk is Villa Rams Woerthe. Built in 1899, it is an example of the Dutch variant of Art Nouveau. Its well-preserved interior was created with the involvement of renowned designers and decorators. The Hildo Krop Museum, featuring a special collection of the artist's works, is located in the basement.
The Vollenhove City Museum focuses on something different: it brings ten centuries of local history to life. This includes the period of the Bishopric of Utrecht, manor houses built by the nobility, and the heyday of fishing on the Zuiderzee. Together, the two town museums offer insights into different chapters of Steenwijkerland's history.
Regional food and crafts
The “Lekkers uit de Kop” initiative is aimed at visitors and residents. Through farm shops, open days and tours at agricultural businesses, it offers insights into the origins of regional food. Products made in Steenwijkerland include dairy products, meat, fish, vegetables, cheese, sausages, honey, jam and nuts. Individual producers and opening arrangements may change, so check the relevant information in advance.
Sustainable reed cutting is also supported in Steenwijkerland. It complements the exploration of a region where reeds, water and wetlands shape the landscape.
Discover more destinations: De Bult, Giethoorn, Steenwijkerwold, Wanneperveen, Paasloo, Blokzijl, Steenwijk, Vollenhove, Scheerwolde, Belt-Schutsloot, Kallenkote, Sint Jansklooster, Ossenzijl, Kalenberg.
For the overview of the wider region: Overijssel.
