The Netherlands is known as a land of canals and busy cities, but the rural areas of the country are calm and breathtaking the locations most tourists remain unaware of. The rural retreats enable visitors to explore beautiful villages, green scenery, and Dutch culture without having to spend time in the busy tourist sites. Once there, when surfing these villages, one can have a real experience of local life, old-fashioned streets and cottages, windmills, farms, and canals which have not been modernized over centuries. The hidden Dutch countryside is relaxing, beautiful, and offers cycling paths, picturesque walks, or a peaceful retreat that will recover body and mind.
The countryside of the Netherlands is not simply picturesque but it is also a living history lesson. Clovering centuries-old architecture and traditional farming, and cultural heritage, hidden villages represent centuries-old heritage. Visiting these areas:
Such silent retreats can add greater value to the Dutch lifestyle and demonstrate the peaceful unity of nature and culture of the country.
The village of Giethoorn is a peaceful place with its canals, thatched roof cottages, wooden bridges. The historic center does not admit cars and makes use of boats, bicycles, and walking as the main ways of exploration. Tourists are allowed to hire punters (minimal boats) to sail along the canals with the amazing view. Giethoorn is the best example of country-side escapes as it is quite tranquil and the atmosphere of this place is unchanging.
Marken is a little peninsula of North Holland, with picturesque wooden houses and old piers. Marken has a separate character and culture after being isolated by water. Visit nearby museums, walk down beaches or dine out at small restaurants eating fresh seafood. It is the best place to escape the hustle and bustle of a city, with its small streets and historical buildings.
Volendam is known for its harbor, costumes and fish markets. It is a little more familiar, but still a small-town place. Riding through the canals, trying local delicacies, and taking pictures of colorful houses provide the visitors with the idea of the traditional Dutch life in a fishing village.
In Utrecht province, Oudewater boasts of an ancient weigh house (Houten Waag) and picturesque streets. The village is characterized by cultural exploration and taking peaceful walks, and canals, bridges, and old buildings can remind you of Dutch history. There are local stores selling handmade goods and festivals with the rich history of the town.
Bourtange, a star-shaped fortress village is situated in Groningen. Its paving streets, ancient bastions and canals are perfectly maintained. The Bourtange walk is like traveling to the past, an escape to the quiet with an element of history and impressive architecture.
Numerous off-road escapes in the countryside can only be enjoyed with a bike. Cycling enables the visitors to move at their speed, take pictures and have a taste of local cafes on the way. The flat nature of the Netherlands and the provision of bike lanes, which are properly maintained, make it available to all levels.
There are walking trails with an inception in villages, farmlands, and nature reserves. It may have guided tours which add some historical value and cultural background. Waking up early in the mornings usually comes with privacy and an opportunity to have time to relax in the countryside within serene surroundings.
Family-owned cafes or bakeries are a common feature of small villages and you can taste some of the Dutch delicacies such as poffertjes, fresh cheese or fish. Eating out with such close-up places enables one to get personal contacts with locals.
Local festivals, flower parades, harvest festivals, etc. are common in the countryside retreats. By joining such events, the visitor is immersed in the culture and has an unforgettable experience as they are exposed to centuries of traditions.
The fact that one stays in a village adds to the experience. They are as small as bed-and-breakfast or historic inns and boutique hotels. A large number of the properties are family owned and provide a personalized service and a home feel. Pre-reservation is also recommended, especially in the spring and summer when tulips are in blossom and festivals are held.
The unity with nature is one of the most exciting attractions of the countryside getaway. Riding or strolling in villages will usually bring one to rivers, lakes and meadows. One can relax in green areas, birdwatch, or go boating to escape the city life.
The Dutch countryside offers a different aspect of the country, something most tourists out there fail to experience. These villages offer peace, naturalism and culture that is not a part of bustling cities. Every village has its history and its beauty, whether it is Giethoorn with its canals, Bourtange with its star-shaped streets.
Taking a trip to these villages helps you to take your time, enjoy the past and experience the culture of the Dutch in a natural way. The countryside is a memorable getaway; one can either be on a bike ride through meadows, on cobbled roads, or savor local delicacies. The Dutch villages are secret places, which show the core of the Netherlands and provide effortless peace, beauty, and authentic experiences, which last long once you leave.
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