Aandammerroute

The winding dykes and ponds tell the story of the struggle against water. Cruising through quiet ditches, you pass historic villages with colourful wooden houses. You can stop along the way in one of these former fishing villages for an ice cream or a sandwich.

Outside the villages, you paddle through narrow farm ditches lined with reed beds, where reed birds such as the reed warbler and the little and great warbler take shelter. In spring, the banks are full of cuckoo, cuckoo and buttercups.

The peat landscape is home to unusual plant species. Around Aandammerbrug and nature reserve Barnegat, the fragrant night orchid, camp fern and the rare bog orchid grow. Near Holysloot in the Nauw, you will also find the night orchid and the king fern.

Experience the peace and beauty of Waterland-East. Start your tour in Broek in Waterland or Uitdam. Tip: Bring a plant or bird search card.

Rental options:

• Broeker Boat Rental, Broek in Waterland, phone 06-37525640
• Het Weeshuis, Monnickendam, telephone 0299-653642

Important information:

• For the route leaflet, download the PDF file.
• This route is described in a full-colour route leaflet: KANOKAART, Waterland-East; 'Paddling through Waterland'. It includes a detailed map, natural and cultural-historical information, water management, attractions and places of interest along the route. The leaflet contains four routes, including the Gouwen, Buitenweeren and Woudweeren. Available at VVVs in Waterland, rental outlets, outdoor sports shops, info centres and some bookstores.
• For this route, follow wooden posts with yellow heads.