Steenwijk: Explore the Hidden Gems of the Netherlands

Welcome to Steenwijk, a charming city in the Netherlands that is often overlooked by tourists. Discover the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that the city has to offer.

Museums

Steenwijk is home to several museums that showcase the city's history and culture.

• Museumhuis Rams Woerthe: This elegant villa, located on Gasthuislaan 2, has been transformed into a museum that exhibits the lifestyle and interior decoration of the Dutch aristocracy in the early 20th century. Visit the website for more information.

• Steenwijk City Museum: Located on Markt 64, this museum features exhibitions that highlight the city's history, architecture, and development.

• Fairground and Circus Museum: Onnastraat 3, this museum showcases the history of the Dutch circus industry and fairgrounds.

• Museum De Koloniehof: Majoor van Swietenlaan 1A, this museum takes a closer look at the Dutch efforts to reduce poverty in the 19th century through the creation of colonies. Visit the website for more information.

• Museum 't Kiekhuus: Grindweg 35, this small museum focuses on the history of photography in the Netherlands.

Parks and Gardens

Steenwijk is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

• Park Rams Woerthe: This beautiful park, located on Gedempte Turfhaven 3, is part of the Rams Woerthe estate and features an ornamental lake, beautiful gardens, and a playground for children. Learn more

• Kallenkerkje: Kallenkote 19, this beautiful garden is perfect for those who enjoy nature and landscaping.

• Bijentuin Steenwijk: Community garden Trappenweg, this garden is dedicated to protecting local bee populations and features a variety of flowers and plants. Learn more

• Vijver Meppelerweg: This tranquil park features a large pond and well-manicured gardens, perfect for relaxing.

• Terreplein: Located on Onnadwarsstraat 2, this small park features a playground for children and plenty of green space for picnics.

Natural Attractions

Steenwijk is surrounded by nature preserves and national parks that are perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring.

• Taman Indonesia Zoo: Kallenkote 53, this tropical zoo is home to Indonesian animals and features Indonesian stilt houses and dressing-up costumes. Visit the website for more information.

• De Weerribben-Wieden National Park: This sprawling national park, located on Oeverweg, is the largest area of fens in northwest Europe. It is dense with lakes, waterways, forested areas, and lowland fens. Learn more

• Nettelbosch: This city park offers beautiful walking trails and a large pond, perfect for fishing.

• Visitor Center De Wieden: Located on Beulakerpad 1, this visitor center offers information about the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, as well as guided tours and activities. Visit the website for more information.

• Dwingelderveld National Park: Located on Benderse 22, this expansive wet moorland reserve features walking and cycling trails, marsh flats, wooded areas, and rare birds. Learn more

• Schaapskooi Achter 't Zaand: This national reserve, located in Dwingelderveld National Park, is home to a flock of sheep and offers beautiful walking trails. Learn more

Iconic Attractions

Steenwijk is also home to several iconic attractions that are worth a visit.

• Giethoorn Netherlands: Kerkweg 35, this charming village is known as the "Venice of the North" due to its many canals and bridges. Visitors can rent a boat or take a guided tour to explore the village. Visit the website for more information.

• Giethoorn Center: Located on Binnenpad 103, this bustling area is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

• PIER+HORIZON - Paul de Kort: Located on Zwartemeerdijk, this modern art installation offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Learn more

• Butterfly Paradise Papiliorama: Located on Van Helomaweg 14, this butterfly sanctuary is home to a variety of exotic butterflies, moths, and birds. Visit the website for more information.

Hidden Gems

Steenwijk has plenty of hidden gems that are worth seeking out.

• Origin of De Blauwe Hand: This mysterious stone in the city center is said to be the origin of the Dutch phrase "De Blauwe Hand" (The Blue Hand).

• Kunstgalerie Afrika: Located on Beulakerweg 56, this art gallery specializes in contemporary African art. Visit the website for more information.

• Onderduikershol: This hidden bunker, located on Wouwenaarweg, was used during World War II by Dutch resistance fighters. Learn more

• Hunebed D53: Located on Hunebeddenweg, this prehistoric burial site is surrounded by a forest with cycle paths. Learn more

• Tinie en Machiel: Located on Verlaatseweg 8, this beautiful garden is filled with unique sculptures and art pieces.

Getting Around

Steenwijk is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and most attractions are within walking or cycling distance from the city center. Visitors can also rent a boat to explore the surrounding canals and waterways.

No matter what your interests are, Steenwijk has something for everyone. From museums and parks to natural attractions and hidden gems, this charming city is a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.