Water in the Netherlands - Befriending an old enemy

Who would choose to live below sea level, where heavy rains could turn into a deadly flood? Answer: the Dutch. We have been living below sea level quite comfortably for centuries now and have learned to take advantage of the wonderful world of water. That’s why we want to show you all the fantastic ways water contributes to the Netherlands. And vice versa. Because the Netherlands is a country of water.

The biggest and best examples are the Delta Works, located in the southwest of our country. In 1953, the Dutch province of Zeeland was devastated by the largest North Sea flood disaster in our history. The government decided that something had to change, which resulted in the largest flood protection system the world had ever seen. It consists of five storm surge barriers, two sluice gates and six dams spread across several coastal provinces.

Our obsession with water is not only visible along our country’s coast. Large cities such as Utrecht, Amsterdam and Rotterdam have been laid out to get the maximum benefit from the water and learn from it. Each in its own way. It’s not for nothing that Amsterdam’s canal ring has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that the port of Rotterdam is considered the gateway for European import and export.

Let’s dive a bit deeper. Not only are the Amsterdam canals a treat for the eyes, but they also used to play a crucial role in our trading strategy. During the 16th century, the idea emerged to turn Amsterdam into an important port city. To be able to import and export merchandise swiftly, a structured maze of canals was required. This resulted in arguably the most beautiful stretch of water in an urban environment.

From north to south and east to west, point to a spot on a map of the Netherlands and there is a good chance that water plays some kind of role there. Anyone wanting to enjoy the water will be able to find an activity in every single province.

When looking at a map of the Netherlands, you immediately notice the Frisian Wadden Islands in the north. Texel and Terschelling are more touristy, whereas Vlieland and Schiermonnikoog are quieter and somewhat more rugged. To really experience the islands, you should set out on a walk along the mud flats. It’s a muddy must-see that, courtesy of the changing tides, essentially lets you walk along the bottom of the Wadden Sea. Wear appropriate shoes or boots and enjoy the sea like never before. Don't fancy walking? Take the boat and let it ‘run aground’...

You can also learn a lot in Flevoland about the creation of the province and the two new lakes: IJsselmeer Lake and Markermeer Lake. Last but by no means least there is the Afsluitdijk, a 32-kilometre dike that combats flooding and forms a connection between the provinces of Friesland and North Holland. It is an extraordinary work of engineering, which also boasts the brilliant art project ‘Gates of Light’ by Daan Roosegaarde at night.

Those interested in learning all about the former Zuiderzee should definitely pay a visit to the Zuiderzeemuseum in Enkhuizen. In fact, the whole region surrounding IJsselmeer Lake is worth a visit. This area truly has something for everyone, whether you seek small beaches or the ‘water museum’ that is Batavialand.

The Woudagemaal in the Frisian town of Lemmer is the largest functioning steam pumping station in the world and is still used to prevent flooding when water levels get too high. This monumental giant is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is absolutely worth a visit when you are in Friesland.

The windmills of Kinderdijk attract a lot of tourists every year. That’s hardly surprising because the windmills, water and iconic polder landscape are quintessentially Dutch. Hire a boat and enjoy the magnificent views and (of course) the 19 world-famous windmills. It might not be the trendiest day out, but the classics remain the classics for a reason!