Giethoorn, Netherlands

Something that was supposed to be only the part of a post, ended up being an entire post itself…this charming, idyllic waterfront village called Giethoorn. Read on, have a good look at the pictures and you’ll know why.

So… Giethoorn…

I’d sell kidneys – mine or whose-ever, loot a bank, do whatever it takes to live in this land of dreams forever. I’d gladly bake croissants and brew coffee, even breed chicken to make a living. Yes… these and such other inane thoughts entered my mind right from the moment I hopped out of the bus. They followed me all the way through the boat ride, through those meandering lakes snaking through the lush greens on either side, through those gorgeous thatched roof houses straight out of fairy tales and through that flapping of ducks who seem know the real meaning of cohabitating, even better than us humans.
Giethoorn is that beautiful.

Look at her. Isn’t she pretty!

It’s a typical Dutch village, far away from the city conundrum, where lakes are plenty and people are few. Around three thousand max. And for a change, it’s the humans who’ve gleefully learnt to live with, on and around water and not the other way round. The only means of transportation is canoes, punts and whisper boats – because they have silent electric motors. No wonder, nature smiles in all her magnificent glory here.

Giethoorn is located in the province of Overijssel in the east of the Netherlands. This quaint little village thrives on its waterways, canal system and over 170 gorgeous bridges. Its name originates from “Goat Horns”, which were discovered by its earliest inhabitants in the tenth century flood. Now there are no goats and no horns, but something like ensures they aren’t missed.

Best way to explore Giethoorn and its myriad of lakes and canals is by taking a canal cruise. Spend an hour or two on the boat with a local guide who’ll spin yarns and yarns of tales and you’ll realize how exquisite a place you are in.

When the boat gently maneuvers from under the beautifully arched bridges, slicing through the quiet, glistening waters, you hastily adjust the settings of your camera to capture every bit of this dreamy place in your lens. All this while trying your best not to tumble out of the boat and into the water.

Here, the boats have houses too…

A spray of mist, a drizzle of rain and a dash of nip in the air. Perfect recipe for a memorable ride on the lake.

After you’re done with the ride and your tummy starts rumbling, stuff yourself in one of those restaurants that sit beautifully on the water’s edge.

Sink you teeth into their delectable pizzas or how about some steaming hot chocolate while the errant cold winds peck at your neck.

Later, pay a visit to any of the three canal-side museums or take a stroll past the 18th and 19th century houses, ancient churches, while dodging the cyclists and submit yourself to the sweet melancholy of nature.

Some cutesy stuff at the museum you can bring back home.

Couldn’t help posting pictures of these gorgeous houses, each one plonked on a carpet of various shades of greens and with a view to die for. They all look so pampered to me.

This is how you kill time in Giehoorn. Transform into a tiger, park your backside on the edge of the lake, smile and wave at every passing boat and wait for fishes to catch your bait. And this at 11 in the morning. Wonder how rest of the day goes by.

When a house feels cold, this is how it insulates itself…

This one looks straight out of a Harry Potter movie, doesn’t it…

In circa 1900, a milkman would come sailing and pour milk in these cans that were kept waiting outside the house. Now they just sit here, reminiscing the good old days..

You come in. Vehicles stay out…

As the trip comes to a wrap, and you are about to board the bus, every bit of you will crave to be frozen in those moments, in that achingly beautiful place and wishing and hoping that time stands still forever. This is the magic of Giethoorn.