Around Weerribben-Wieden NP Scenic Drive

Embark on an amazing journey around Weerribben-Wieden National Park in the Netherlands! With a distance of ca. 90km and a recommended time of 1 day, this scenic drive is suitable for drivers of all levels and provides a great way to experience the beautiful landscapes of the park. The route starts in Hasselt and passes through the towns of Blokzijl and Giethoorn, both of which have plenty of attractions to explore. Blokzijl is a picturesque town with a vibrant harbor and a variety of cafes and restaurants to enjoy. Giethoorn is known as the 'Venice of the Netherlands' for its many canals and bridges, and is a great spot to take a boat ride. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when the park is in full bloom. The roads are generally in excellent condition, although some parts can be quite narrow. Despite the moderate budget required, this road trip offers an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

Hasselt is a charming city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands. It is the ideal starting point for a road trip called the Around Weerribben-Wieden NP Scenic Drive. Hasselt is abundant in attractions and sights that are worth visiting. The old town square is the perfect spot to start exploring the city. The 13th-century St. Michael's Church and the St. George's Hall are its main attractions. It is also home to the Grote Kerk, which is a beautiful Protestant church. The Hasselt Castle, with its beautiful gardens and its unique architecture, is also worth a visit. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Schiphol Airport (AMS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the Around Weerribben-Wieden NP Scenic Drive. Hasselt also boasts an array of outdoor activities, such as biking, kayaking, and fishing. There are also several parks in the city, including the Stadspark and the Plantentuin. Hasselt is the perfect starting point for a road trip. With its many attractions and outdoor activities, it is sure to provide an enjoyable experience for any traveler.

Start your journey in Hasselt, Netherlands and explore the beauty of the surrounding area. Drive through the picturesque Genemuiden, where you can take a ferry crossing and enjoy the scenic views of the river. Continue your journey to Blokzijl, which is only 24 km away, and take less than 1 hour to drive. Here you can visit the Blokzijl Castle, which is located on a small island in the middle of the lake. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and offers a great view of the lake. You can also explore the old city center, with its narrow streets and interesting shops. Don't forget to take a stroll along the harbor, where you can admire the boats. As you travel through the area, keep an eye out for the narrow roads, as they may require a bit of extra caution. When you are ready to move on, make sure to check the “Itinerary” for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a road trip adventure that starts in Blokzijl, Netherlands and takes you through the picturesque towns of Steenwijk and Giethoorn. On this 29 km journey, you can expect to make several stops along the way and explore some of the most interesting places. In Blokzijl, you can visit the historic Dutch Reformed Church, which dates back to the 17th century. From here, you will drive to Steenwijk, where you can explore the ruins of the Castle Radboud. Then, you will continue your journey to Giethoorn, where you can visit the Giethoorn Museum, which is housed in an 18th-century farmhouse. The drive from Blokzijl to Giethoorn takes less than an hour, and you will pass through some stunning scenery along the way. The roads in some sections are narrow, so please drive with caution. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the itinerary for this stage of the road trip.

Your road trip starts in Giethoorn, Netherlands, a picturesque village known for its canals, bridges, and traditional Dutch houses. From there, you will drive to Meppel, a charming town with a rich history. Here, you can visit the old city center, explore the Meppeler Diep, and take a stroll around the beautiful park. Your next stop is Hasselt, a small town located on the banks of the IJssel river. During your stay, you can explore the historic center, visit the Hasseltse Plas, and take a boat ride on the river. This 37 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be able to enjoy the scenic road along the way. Just be aware that in some sections the road will be rather narrow. For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage.

Hasselt is a charming town in the Netherlands known for its rich history and beautiful buildings. Located at the end of the "Around Weerribben-Wieden NP Scenic Drive," Hasselt is the perfect place to end your road trip. When you arrive in Hasselt, you'll find plenty of activities to do. Visit the old town center with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings. The town also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Explore the local art galleries, or take a stroll along the canal. If you're looking for something more active, take a bike ride or go for a walk in the nearby woods. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to do, like fishing and boating on the nearby lakes. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Eindhoven Airport (EIN). From here, you can take a train or bus to Hasselt. No matter how you travel to Hasselt, you'll find plenty of things to do and sights to see. Whether it's exploring the old town center or taking a bike ride in the woods, Hasselt is the perfect place to end your road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 90km journey encircling the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, a treasure of the Netherlands' natural landscapes. This one-day Road Trip is accessible for drivers of all skill levels, offering an immersive experience into the picturesque Dutch countryside and waterways.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The adventure begins in the historic town of Hasselt, known for its well-preserved medieval city center. As you continue, visit the enchanting town of Blokzijl, with its inviting harbor and traditional Dutch architecture. Don't miss Giethoorn, affectionately known as the 'Venice of the Netherlands.' Here, you can explore a network of serene canals, thatched cottages, and quaint bridges either by boat or on foot. These towns are not only gateways to the region's natural splendor but also hubs of rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is during the summer months when the Weerribben-Wieden National Park bursts into life with lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife. This season offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are well-maintained, some sections may be narrow and winding, which calls for cautious driving, especially during peak tourist seasons when the area can become quite crowded.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Weerribben-Wieden National Park is the largest fen in Northwestern Europe and hosts a unique peatland ecosystem. It's a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The Road Trip caters to those with a moderate budget, focusing on the rich natural and cultural experiences that the region has to offer.

A good choice for:

This Road Trip is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of the Netherlands' cultural charm, breathtaking natural scenery, and warm hospitality, all packed into an unforgettable day-long journey.