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A Village in Holland with no Roads


For anyone dreaming of a simple life, you may want to consider moving to Giethoorn, Netherlands.
This idyllic village has no roads, and the only access is by water over the many beautiful canals or on foot over its wooden arch bridges. The locals use punters to get around and cars have to remain outside the village.
Located in the province of Overijssel, there are 4 miles of canals and farmhouses with thatched roofs dating back to the 18th century.
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Rustic: Giethoorn is known as the Venice of the NetherlandsRustic: Giethoorn is known as the Venice of the Netherlands
It's no surprise Giethoorn is a popular tourist attraction and has been given the nickname the Venice of the Netherlands. Cycling and sailing as well as a guided canal tour are some of the many ways to discover its rustic charm. 
The village was founded by a group of fugitives from the Mediterranean region around AD 1230. It became well known in 1958 when it was featured in the film Fanfare, made by Dutch filmmaker Bert Haanstra.
Canal tours are popular with the many tourists Canal tours are popular with the many tourists
The bridges are made entirely from woodThe bridges are made entirely from wood

Farmhouses date from the 18th century Farmhouses date from the 18th century
There are 4 miles of canalsThere are 4 miles of canals
Giethoorn was founded by a group of fugitives around AD 1230Giethoorn was founded by a group of fugitives around AD 1230

Transport: The villagers get around by boatTransport: The villagers get around by boat