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.
Two World Heritage sites in one day
Few walking routes in North Holland can match this unique trail. On the World Heritage Squared route, you walk from the historic city centre of Purmerend to no fewer than two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Beemster Polder and the Defence Line of Amsterdam. The route is 17.2 kilometers long and leads through the rural area of the Zaanstreek-Waterland region, just north of Amsterdam. A unique combination of cultural history, vast polder skies, and unexpected discoveries — all within walking distance of the station.
From city canal to polder vastness
You begin your walk in the heart of Purmerend, the first city in Lower Holland to ever be granted market rights. Soon you leave the built-up area behind and step into a world of straight dikes, endless meadows, and clear ditches. The landscape of the Beemster, drained in 1612, is strikingly geometric: straight roads, square plots, and wide lots that bear witness to the systematic hand of 17th-century engineers. In spring, the area buzzes with meadow birds—you can hear the black-tailed godwit calling from afar. Along the route, you pass characteristic traditional Dutch farmhouses and discover farm stalls and stands selling fresh regional produce. A dollop of raw-milk yogurt or a piece of farmhouse cheese straight from the land: this is North Holland at its best.
Halfway along the route, you enter the area of the Amsterdam Defence Line. The atmosphere changes noticeably: high earthen ramparts, water features, and tranquil fort grounds make an impression. You pass an inundation sluice, an ingenious structure formerly used to flood the surrounding land as a defence against enemies. At Fort aan de Middenweg, it is particularly striking how these seemingly modest buildings are leading a second life. Especially in the autumn, when the colours of the reeds and the surrounding nature turn warm and golden yellow, this is a walk to cherish.
Highlights along the way
- Historic city center of Purmerend — Start your walk in one of the oldest market towns in Lower Holland, with atmospheric facades and a lively city center as a warm starting point.
- Beemster Polder (UNESCO) — The oldest and best-preserved example of a rationally designed reclaimed land landscape in the world. The geometric structure of dikes, roads, and polders has remained virtually unchanged for nearly 400 years.
- Farm stalls and regional products — Along the route, you will find informal stalls and stands with dairy, vegetables, and other products straight from the farm. Take a moment to taste and chat with the farmer.
- Floodgate — A unique structure that shows how water was once used as a weapon. Serene and overgrown, yet with an impressive story.
- Fort aan de Middenweg (Defence of Amsterdam, UNESCO) — One of the 46 forts in the Defence Line of Amsterdam. This fort features a unique washroom — a detail that sparks curiosity about the daily life of the soldiers who were once stationed here.
Defense rings and dry feet
The Beemster was drained in 1612 and is considered the world's first rationally designed landscape. In 1999, it was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Defence Line of Amsterdam, a ring of 46 forts and batteries surrounding the capital, was already recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The fact that both heritage sites lie so close together—and are connected by a single walking route—makes this tour unique in the Netherlands.
The Twiske-Waterland Recreation Authority developed a route booklet specifically for this route, containing in-depth information about nature, culture, and history along the way.
Tips and practical information
- Public transport: Purmerend has an easily accessible train station — you get off and are at the starting point of the route within a few minutes. No hassle, just get on and go.
- Marking: The route is marked with green route signs (green).
- Route booklet: Recreatieschap Twiske-Waterland has a digital and a print version of the route booklet available. Handy to take along for further information along the way.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome on the route; please be mindful of nesting meadow birds in the spring (March–July) and keep your dog on a leash in the meadows during this time.
- Accessibility: The route largely follows dike paths and paved roads; sections are less suitable for wheelchairs or strollers due to unpaved dike paths.
- Season: Can be walked year-round, but particularly beautiful in spring (meadow birds, flowering verges) and autumn (golden-yellow hues along the fort moats).
- Sustainable tip: Take the train to Purmerend and the return journey is just as easy — the car can simply stay at home.
