A wonderful experience in Waterrijk Harderwijk
Exploring Harderwijk by and on the water
Blogger Eliane Roest went exploring in Harderwijk and was delighted by everything the town and the water have to offer. From a leisurely island-hopping trip by boat to dining with a view of the Wolderwijd and a relaxing stand-up paddleboarding session on the lake, she experienced it all.
In her story, she takes you on a tour of the most beautiful spots, the best routes and the finest places to visit. Perfect if you want to set off on your own and make the most of your visit to Harderwijk.
Read about her adventure and discover just how varied a day (or weekend) in this town, surrounded by water, can be.
Get some fresh air and relax by the water
From Harderwijk’s promenade, you’ll enjoy views you’ll never tire of. Walk onto the town beach and before you know it, you’ll be right in the middle of that laid-back island vibe.
The beach island is the sort of place you can easily lose yourself in. Shallow water to splash about in, trampolines for the kids and plenty of space to chill out. And live music regularly adds to the atmosphere.
For a drink or a bite to eat, pop into the trendy beach bar Walhalla, the place where everything comes together.
Surf paradise. Suit on and let's go!
Harderwijk is perhaps even more beautiful when viewed from the water. Hop on your board and brave the waves on an adventurous SUP tour across the Randmeren lakes. Whether you’re trying SUP for the first time or are a seasoned paddler, this is the perfect way to experience the town in a whole new light.
You can go SUP here all year round, even in the evening. That’s when it’s particularly special: tranquillity on the water, the town slowly lighting up and a completely different atmosphere.
A trip through the Waterfront also introduces you to this new district of Harderwijk. Modern architecture, clean lines and water all around you – a lovely contrast to the historic town centre.
Unique experiences by the coast. Celebrate life on the water
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Relive the Zuiderzee era
Visit the beautifully lit harbour, the botter shed and the botter museum. You’ll experience the Hanseatic city’s glorious fishing heritage.
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Hire a sloop
Nothing is as relaxing as a boat trip. Thanks to its location on the Randmeer, Harderwijk is the perfect place to set off in a sloop. Moor up somewhere, enjoy watching the water birds, or take a refreshing dip. It’s up to you!
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Take a look around the harbour
Experience a jumble of boats. The three harbours in Harderwijk can accommodate as many as 150 vessels. A lovely spot for a stroll.
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Experience the Brown Fleet
Enjoy a delightful sailing trip on a historic botter. Take a leisurely cruise or lend a hand with hoisting the sails.
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Out and about with binoculars
Birdwatching is best done by the water. Head out with a pair of binoculars and watch the black-tailed godwits tumbling about, the snipe foraging, and the graceful little swans.
Italian dining by the water
Transport yourself to warmer climes over an Italian lunch with a view of the water. Here, a leisurely meal is part and parcel of the good life. In the morning, take a seat for a traditional espresso. At lunchtime, enjoy fresh pasta and sourdough pizza made to our own recipe. And as evening falls and the sun sets over the Wolderwijd, linger a while in the wine bar.
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Water-based activities
See all the highlightsFor those who like to dive straight in.
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Maximum splashing fun
Visit the dolphinariumTickle the stingrays, get splashed by roaring sea lions and spend plenty of time playing in the Water Park. In winter, the Dolfinarium is open during the school holidays.
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Peuzel ambachtelijke vis
Discover the fishmonger'sHerring with spring onions, fried fish bites or a typical Harderwijk fresh-smoked palinkje. Fresh fish tastes good all year round.
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Take a boat trip
Book a boat tripSit back and relax. Book a leisurely boat trip past the highlights of Harderwijk. Perfect when combined with some food and drink.
A lie-in by the water
In the distance, you can see the lighthouse welcoming sailors into the harbour. From the comfort of your stylish boathouse, you have views of both land and sea. Here, you can enjoy a unique stay by the water and even have your own jetty to moor your boat
In the distance, you can see the lighthouse welcoming sailors into the harbour. From the comfort of your stylish boathouse, you look out over both land and water — a place where you can truly switch off from it all. Here, you’ll be staying literally above the water, often with your own jetty right outside to moor your boat.
Prefer to be even closer to the water? Then opt for a houseboat. With this, you won’t be staying above the water, but right in the middle of it. Wake up to the gentle lapping of the water around you and always that feeling of freedom that comes with being outdoors.
Whether you choose a boathouse or a houseboat: staying by the water in Harderwijk is anything but ordinary.
