Drechterland
Drechterland is a municipality in the West Friesland region of North Holland. It borders the municipality of Hoorn to the west, Medemblik to the north, Stede Broec to the east, and the Markermeer to the south. The name of the municipality originates from the historical district of Drechterland.
Drechterland is particularly known for its scenic surroundings and the many monuments that reflect its agricultural character. A recognizable and common sight are the (monumental) stolp farms. Each village in Drechterland has its own culture and monuments, such as the windmill in Wijdenes and the Beatles monument in Oosterblokker. Along the dike, Drechterland offers beautiful walking, boating, and cycling routes through the landscape, especially when the flower fields are in full bloom.
Come and discover for yourself what makes Drechterland special!
Historical and cultural attractions
In Drechterland, history and culture go hand in hand, with the local identity deeply rooted in West Frisian folklore. Explore some of the most remarkable historical and cultural sites:Watertoren
The Watertoren in Hoogkarspel, built in 1930, is a striking sight. Unlike many other towers of similar height that are often located in less developed areas, this water tower has significant situational value due to its distinctive silhouette.
Monument The Beatles
In the village of Blokker, located in West Friesland, there is a statue honoring The Beatles. The idea for this monument originated in 1994 when advertiser Gert Elzinga wanted to keep the memory of The Beatles' historic performances in Blokker, 30 years earlier, alive.
Vuurtje van Leek
The Vuurtje van Leek is a light structure in the shape of a gas boiler located at the Leekerhoek. This light structure serves as a navigation point for shipping traffic on the Markermeer. Situated at a right-angle bend of the Zuiderdijk, just south of Oosterleek, this tower was built in 2001 to replace an older structure that had been standing there since 1939.
Langhuis Oosterleek
Huis Oosterleek, an eighteenth-century farm and rare West Frisian longhouse, offers a unique insight into North Holland's heritage. With its authentic details and historical atmosphere, enhanced by the beautiful surroundings of Oosterleek, this national monument exudes a special charm. Today, you can also stay overnight there.
Raadhuis van Schellinkhout
Discover the historic town hall of Schellinkhout, built in 1765 to replace an older structure. This charming building served not only as the municipal hall but also as a weighing house, featuring an impressive council chamber adorned with tiled walls and allegorical images.
Windmills in Drechterland
Drechterland is a municipality in the Dutch province of North Holland, known for its rich history with windmills. The municipality has four well-known mills, each of which plays an important part in the local heritage:
- De Grote Molen (Schellinkhout)
- Johan (Schellinkhout)
- De Krijgsman (Oosterblokker)
- De Stofmolen (Wijdenes)
Hospitality
Discover the diverse range of dining establishments in Drechterland. Whether you are looking for a pancake restaurant for the kids, want to enjoy a culinary evening, or just want to have a cozy drink, you will find it all in Drechterland.Restaurant OASE
Restaurant OASE is a hidden gem in the Hoorn region, located behind the dike in Schellinkhout at the Hoornse Hop. OASE offers endless possibilities, whether you are dining with family, want to enjoy a culinary evening with friends, or are planning a festive wedding.
Pannekoekbakkerij Houtlust
Since 1996, Pannekoekbakkerij Houtlust has been the destination for delicious pancakes and plenty of fun for children. For adults, the restaurant also offers a wide selection of tasty dishes, perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal!
Eetcafe ’t Ken-Net
Café 't Ken-Net is considered the living room of Venhuizen. Whether it’s for celebrations and parties, a cozy drink, or just a nice meal out, you’ve come to the right place here!
Cycling and walking
The Westfriese Omringdijk stretches over 126 kilometers and forms a historical dike that surrounds West Friesland. The path was created by connecting various shorter dikes and runs through the cities of Enkhuizen, Hoorn, Alkmaar, Schagen, and Medemblik.
It is a pleasure to walk and cycle along the Westfriese Omringdijk, where you can enjoy beautiful views and discover the rich history of the region.
Take a swim
Drechterland offers the perfect spots to cool off on warm days. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pools Het Streekbad in Hoogkarspel and ’t Hemmerven in Hem, where you can enjoy fun and relaxation.
For those who prefer to feel the sand between their toes, the beach in Schellinkhout offers an idyllic location by the Markermeer.
Stay the night
A vacation or outing in Drechterland naturally calls for a comfortable bed to sleep in. Would you prefer a cozy holiday home, or do you enjoy camping at a beautiful campsite?De Appelhoek
The Appelhoek is located at the foot of the centuries-old West Frisian Ring Dike. Here, you have the option to camp in your own tent or caravan on one of the three cozy fields, or enjoy a comfortable stay in the charming apartments in a historic farm or in holiday cottages.
Hotel Houses Oosterleek
Directly by the Markermeer, you will find Hotelhuisjes Oosterleek. The hotel cottages offer a terrace with garden furniture at both the front and back, where you can enjoy the daily fresh breakfast served by the hostess in good weather.
Huis Oosterleek
Thanks to a recent impressive restoration, you can now stay overnight in this typical 'no-gable' farmhouse, where the living quarters and the stable are under one roof. Enjoy a stay in the historic sleeping nook or relax at the large dining table in the kitchen with beautifully weathered brickwork.
Villa Fridhem
Here’s the translation: This luxurious and stylish detached holiday villa, suitable for 20 people, offers plenty of privacy and a beautiful view over the surrounding fields. It is the ideal place for a gathering with family or friends. Want to relax? Then enjoy the wellness area in the villa.
TuinGoed Bonatèr
TuinGoed Bonatèr is a market garden with a nature campsite. It’s a lovely place where you can do what you like. At the mini campsite, you can spend the night in your tent, caravan, or camper on one of the spacious spots, in peace and surrounded by greenery. Don’t have your own camping equipment? No problem, there are several retro caravans available for rent.
Westfriese Golfclub
Looking to spend a day golfing? Visit the Westfriese Golfclub, where the beautifully maintained par 71 course offers a challenge for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
After your round, you can enjoy delicious dishes from the lunch, wine, and dinner menus. From the terrace of the cozy brasserie, you have a stunning view of the 18th hole. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a golfer or not!
Also fun!
Want to learn kitesurfing? Then KiteFEEL is the right place for you! This company offers kitesurfing lessons in shallow water with stable onshore winds, ideal for both beginners and advanced surfers. Depending on the wind direction and strength, they always choose the best location in North Holland for your lesson.
In addition to kitesurfing, you can also take lessons in windsurfing, wingsurfing, wingfoiling, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at KiteFEEL. Want to embark on an adventure yourself? Rent one of the SUPs and enjoy a wonderful day on the water.
Shopping in Drechterland
In the Reigerspassage in Hoogkarspel, you can find everything you need for your daily groceries, a new outfit, gifts, jewelry, and much more. This is also the right place for a visit to the hairdresser. Explore the shopping center and discover the many possibilities!