This route is for canoeists seeking the tranquility of the polder, the shelter of reed beds, meadows with cows and sheep, and nesting birds. The canoe route is marked in green. Enjoy the exertion and relaxation of a day of paddling under your own power.
Peat river and forest
From the starting point at Kanoverhuur De Aker in Uitgeest, where you can rent a canoe or launch your own, you paddle to the Crommenije, the remains of a densely overgrown peat river that connected the old IJ with the Schermer. By canoe, you travel at approximately 2.5 km per hour, depending on the wind and your own skill and strength. The large Krommenieër-Woudpolder was formerly the swamp forest (the 'woud' in the name of this route) of Uitgeest. Now it is largely a Staatsbosbeheer reserve area with grassland on clay-on-peat soil surrounded by reed beds.
Windmills, cows and birds
You paddle past the De Woudaap windmill, which still occasionally drains the polder today. The cows in the meadow stare at you curiously as you paddle past. Enjoy the cheerful chirping of lapwings, godwits, and redshanks. In the reeds, you can hear the reed bunting and the reed warbler singing their hearts out. To grant the birds the necessary peace and quiet, canoeing is prohibited in the Ham en Crommenije reserve area during the breeding season from April 1 to June 15. Therefore, always follow the main route as indicated on the canoe map during this period.
