Loek Buter
Waterland is known for its green, water-rich landscape just north of Amsterdam, where peace and space reign supreme. The open peat meadow landscape is interspersed with picturesque villages and historic towns, giving the region the feel of a living postcard.
The municipality comprises places such as Uitdam, Zuiderwoude, Broek in Waterland, Ilpendam, Watergang, Katwoude, Overleek, Monnickendam and the Marken peninsula. Each has its own charm and rich history, evident in the well-preserved monuments, narrow streets and colourful wooden houses.
Cycle, walk or sail through the expansive landscape past bird-rich nature, meadows and water. Discover iconic spots such as the ‘Paard van Marken’ or enjoy a relaxing trip across the Markermeer, with plenty of opportunities along the way to stop off at farm shops and cosy eateries.
It has been four centuries since this polder was drained using windmills. Cycle past interesting spots, read the stories, and the Purmer comes to life. Two cycling routes have been mapped out, through the north and the south of the polder.
From Purmerend past two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Beemster Polder and the Amsterdam Defence Line — a 17.2 km cultural-historical walk full of panoramic views.
Cycling through the vast polders of Laag Holland, you pass below sea level to Volendam, Monnickendam, and the island of Marken. This route takes you to the historic city center of Monnickendam, the Paard van Marken, and past the Volendam harbor!
You can start this loop in two ways: via the south side (4.79 km) or the north side (5.35 km) of the Gaasperplas. The route is suitable for older children.
From Amsterdam, within ten minutes you can cycle from a busy early 20th-century residential area, over the Schellingwoude Bridge and under the ring road, to the tranquility of the countryside. Near Durgerdam, you get a good view of the water around which this route revolves. The area you cycle through is called Waterland.
Discover Amsterdam through romantic, wondrous, and sometimes moving stories associated with iconic buildings and locations.
Discover Amsterdam. Walk around the IJsselmeer and explore the former Zuiderzee (LAW 8)
A fascinating city walk through the heart of Amsterdam with a special theme: the persecution of Jews in WWII.
Leave the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam behind by bike and discover the vast Waterland! Winding dikes and roads lead you through the flower-filled landscape and past cozy villages such as Durgerdam, Holysloot, and Zuiderwoude.
Discover places that play an important role in the LGBTQ+ history of Amsterdam. This route takes you past monuments, entertainment areas, and places of remembrance in the city center.
Cycle 32 km past industrial heritage: Westergasfabriek, NDSM Shipyard, Hembrug site, and the North Sea Canal — depart directly from Amsterdam Central or Zaandam.
Discover the peat meadow area of Landelijk Noord on this 33 km cycling route. Learn about land subsidence, regional products, and future-proof farming. Start at Amsterdam Noord metro station.
Partly cloudy, 18°C
Wind speed: 4.8 knots / 8.8 km/h
Wind direction: SW
Waterland is a tribute to the Dutch light in every season. Spring brings an explosion of life to the reed beds and flowering verges, summer brings sparkling days on the Gouwzee, autumn shrouds the wooden houses in a mystical mist, and winter brings a tranquil, icy beauty to the frozen canals.
