Clear your head on a walk across the Weide Wellen, moor your own floating villa by an uninhabited island and feel the sun on your face whilst taking in the view over Lake Veluwe. In Harderwijk, the water is never far away, and you’ll notice that straight away.
This is the place to be. Hop on a SUP, hire a sloop or head out onto the lake and discover just how versatile the area is. Sail past the beach island, spend an afternoon bobbing on the water, or moor up and settle down at spots like Monopole or the Admiraal, with views across the water.
The harbours, the promenade and Lake Veluwe blend seamlessly together here. Everything is within walking distance of the town centre, with shops, restaurants and outdoor terraces within easy reach. The harbour office and its facilities are also nearby.
Fancy a bit of relaxation? Settle down by the water, grab a portion of freshly fried kibbeling or find a terrace with a view. Stay until the golden hour and watch the light sweep across Lake Veluwe. Harderwijk is a town where you don’t just see the water, but above all experience it.
A wonderful time in Waterrijk Harderwijk
Exploring Harderwijk, both on and by the water
Blogger Eliane Roest set out to explore Harderwijk and was delighted by everything the town and the water have to offer. From indulgent island-hopping on a sloop 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 top spots. 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’ve got 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 track of time. 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 it all comes together.
Surf paradise. Suit on and off you 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 regular on the water, this is the perfect way to experience the town in a different light.
You can go stand-up paddleboarding 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 gives you the chance to explore this new district of Harderwijk. Modern architecture, clean lines and water all around you – a lovely contrast to the historic town centre.
Unique coastal experiences. Celebrate life on the water
-
Relive the Zuiderzee era
Botter Museum & Botter Shed, HarderwijkVisit the beautifully lit harbour, the botter boathouse and the botter museum. You’ll experience the Hanseatic city’s glorious fishing heritage.
-
Hire a sloop
B&B Boat Hire HarderwijkNothing 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!
-
Have a look around the harbour
PortsExperience a jumble of little boats. The three harbours in Harderwijk can accommodate no fewer than 150 vessels. A lovely spot for a stroll.
-
Experience the Brown Fleet
Botterhuren.nlEnjoy a lovely sailing trip on a historic botter. Take a cruise or have a go at helping to hoist the sails.
-
Out and about with binoculars
In the VeluweBirdwatching is best done by the water. Head out with a spotting scope and watch the tumbling black-tailed godwits, the foraging snipes and the graceful little swans.
-
Island hopping
Island hoppingVisit Knarland Nature Island and other islands in Lake Veluwe. Go island-hopping.
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 longer in the wine bar.
-
Water-based activities
On the waterFor those who like to take the plunge.
-
Maximum splashing fun
DolfinariumTickle the stingrays, get splashed by roaring sea lions and spend ages playing in the Water Park. In winter, the Dolfinarium is open during school holidays.
-
Tuck into some traditional fish
Eel Smokehouse & Fishmonger’sHerring with onions, fried kibbeling or a traditional Harderwijk fresh-smoked palinkje. Fresh fish tastes great all year round.
-
Take a boat trip
VeluviaSit back and relax. Book a leisurely boat trip past the highlights of Harderwijk. It’s lovely 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’ll enjoy a unique overnight 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 get away from it all. Here, you’ll be staying literally above the water, often with your own jetty right outside the door to moor your little boat.
Prefer to be even closer to the water? Then opt for a houseboat. That way, 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 enjoy that feeling of freedom that comes with being outdoors.
Whether you choose a boathouse or a houseboat, spending the night by the water in Harderwijk is anything but ordinary.
