Monnickendam

Today, its relationship with water is still unmistakable. The rugged Zuiderzee gave way to the calm Markermeer with the construction of the Afsluitdijk, offering year-round entertainment for all water lovers. The Gouwzee and the Markermeer have long been popular with sailing enthusiasts. After a day on the water, sailing boats gratefully trickle back into one of Monnickendam's marinas. You can always find a spot here; all together, Monnickendam's marinas are the largest in the Netherlands. During your visit, enjoy the beautiful views over the harbours or book a place on board a sailing ship of the Bruine Vloot. With a bit of luck, you will witness the launch of an impressive seaworthy pleasure yacht, built at the shipyard in the old centre. Just outside the centre you will find recreation area Hemmeland with several beaches. Here you can enjoy swimming, canoeing and surfing. And while the sun sinks behind the horizon, you can end the day at one of the cosy beach bars.

The continuous flow of water from the former Zuiderzee to the Purmer Ee river allowed large seagoing ships to call at Monnickendam. This created a flourishing trade with the Baltic countries in the 16th century. Dutch ships sailed to and from Amsterdam via Monnickendam. These ships brought salt and herring to the Baltic countries and brought back wood, grain, pitch and animal skins. To preserve the herring and other fish for a long time, it was processed in Monnickendam, which has been known for its fish smokehouses since the distant past. Fish is still smoked in the traditional way, which you are sure to smell when you walk near the smokehouse. Tip: During the summer holiday period, fish smoking is demonstrated by a number of smokers from Monnickendam during the Monnickendam Fishing Days.

You can also discover the history of Monnickendam via a walking route! Along these beautiful routes, you will also come across various catering establishments - located in historic buildings - where you can enjoy lunch or dinner. Which route will you choose today?

Monnickendam has been the only town in the municipality of Waterland since 1355. This town is surrounded by the rural (ribbon) villages of Uitdam, Zuiderwoude, Broek in Waterland, Ilpendam, Watergang, Katwoude and Overleek and the peninsula of Marken. Waterland is a delightful area where town and country blend seamlessly. Start the day with a refreshing walk across Marken or in picturesque Broek in Waterland. Cycle through the open peat meadow landscape, through quaint villages, past cosy restaurants, farm shops and overwhelming birdlife. Waterland's scenery is loved by photographers all over the world. They cannot get enough of the distinctive wooden houses in blue and green colours, vast green meadows and endless water. Probably the most photographed piece of Waterland is 'The Horse of Marken'. This iconic 1839 lighthouse and its beautiful surroundings look just like a painting. Prefer to discover Waterland from the water? You can do so during a sailing adventure on the Markermeer, the Gouwzee or the IJsselmeer, or make the crossing from Marken to Volendam with Rederij Volendam-Marken Express. Waterland is also the place to be for quieter boating trips. Choose a beautiful trip by canoe, SUP or (whisper) boat and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna around you in peace. See the abundance of meadow birds, cows and sheep. Moor at a cosy tea garden or sail into one of the Waterland villages. It's a joy to recreate here.