Blokzijl combines a protected historic townscape with a fortress history that can be traced through its ramparts, the Havenkolk and its street names. It also offers cultural activities at the Het Gildenhuys Museum and the Grote Kerk, as well as a boat connection and the signposted Rondje De Wieden route.

Havenkolk and Fortress Rampart

Blokzijl is designated as a protected townscape in the municipality of Steenwijkerland. Around the Havenkolk stand imposing merchant houses that bear witness to a prosperous past. Bierkade and Brouwersgracht also point to the area’s former economy: they recall the many breweries that once stood around the Havenkolk. The merchant houses and the names of the waterways and waterfront areas thus offer two distinct traces of history.

In early 1581, Sonoy laid out Blokzijl’s former fortifications. During the Eighty Years’ War, they were rebuilt as a hexagonal fortress with bastions and canals to protect the important peat shipping trade and access to Holland. Restored in 2009, the western fortress rampart forms a historic walking route with views of the old town, the harbour and the surrounding landscape.

Culture in Blokzijl

Since its restoration from 1995 to 1999, the Grote Kerk in Blokzijl has also been used for cultural events; concerts have been held there ever since. The church offers a different focus from the walk along the fortress rampart: here, events and concerts take centre stage. For children aged 8 to 12, the Het Gildenhuys Museum offers the “Weeshuis aan het water” treasure hunt. It explores life in Blokzijl’s former orphanage. Check whether the treasure hunt is available before your trip. The museum also organises group tours; if you plan to take one, check its availability in advance as well.

Boat and Cycling Route in Weerribben-Wieden

Blokzijl lies in the heart of Weerribben-Wieden National Park. The Blokzijl boat connects the town with the De Wieden Visitor Centre in Sint Jansklooster on a return trip across the Beulakerwijde. Check current operations and timetables before planning a trip, as transport details can change.

The signposted Rondje De Wieden cycling route can be joined at any junction and returns to its starting point. The boat trip specifies the connection and its destination; for the cycling route, the key planning details are that you can join at any junction and return to your starting point. Check the current route status before setting out.

Practical Information

There are two spacious car parks for visitors outside the historic Havenkolk. Check the signs and local regulations before you arrive. There is a bicycle hub on Kanaalweg; if you plan to use it, check its availability in advance. This lets you plan your stay around local traces of history, a cultural activity or a tour by water or bicycle.

Discover more destinations: Giethoorn, Belt-Schutsloot, De Bult, Ossenzijl, Steenwijkerwold, Steenwijk, Sint Jansklooster, Paasloo.

For the main travel overview: Steenwijkerland.