World class heritage
Fortresses & History
Fortified towns, Fortresses and UNESCO - Discover the rich past
Stroll through the old cobblestone streets with historic facades on either side and embark on a journey into the rich history of Gooi & Vecht. The region is home to three fortified towns, the New Dutch Waterline and the Defence Line of Amsterdam, which has UNESCO World Heritage status. There is so much to see and do. Experience Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot, take a tour of the sturdy fortresses, gain new insights at the Dutch Fortress Museum and walk along the ramparts.
New Dutch Waterline
Water as a mighty weapon
Take a walking, cycling, or boating tour along the largest listed landmark in the Netherlands and relive a tale about the ingenious Dutch water defense system. Follow the long line of fortresses, castles, and fortifications.
Experience the Waterline
Fortress Island Pampus
A vibrant experience
Enjoy Pampus with a drink in hand, dine in style during the Zomerlicht or Winterlicht culinary events and join a boat trip on a historic raft. A superb time is guaranteed with the fortress as an exceptional backdrop.
Discover Pampus
Naarden, Weesp, Muiden - Three magnificent fortified towns
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Naarden
Naarden
Walk along the star-shaped fortress walls of one of Europe's best-preserved fortified towns and visit Naarden's iconic highlights, such as the Great Church and the Arsenal.
Discover fortified Naarden
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Weesp
Weesp
Weesp is a bustling fortified town and a feast for the senses. Hugging the river Vecht, the historic centre is protected by two tower fortresses. The town even boasts its own brewery.
To fortified Weesp
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Muiden
Muiden
From Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot and Fortress Island Pampus to the delightful pavement cafes along Herengracht, Muiden just bursts with wonderful surprises. Don’t forget to visit Ome Ko!
Explore fortified Muiden
Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot
Medieval still full of life
Climb the medieval towers, try on a period costume and dine in the plum orchard. The perfectly preserved Muiderslot is surrounded by water and fantastic castle grounds. Experience 700 years of history.
Visit lively Muiderslot
Follow the Fortress Stretch cycling route - Cycle past seven fortresses in Gooi & Vecht
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Fort C (Fort of Mice)
Fort C (Fort of Mice)
Explore the trench circuit and unravel the secret of the cryptographer during an escape game.
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Fort Werk IV
Fort Werk IV
Discover the unique wall with bullet holes, the old artillery warehouse, and a long underground corridor.
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Fort Uitermeer
Fort Uitermeer
Fire a cannon, break out of the smallest escape room (for children) in the Netherlands and finish with a refreshing drink beside the river Vecht.
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Fort aan de Ossenmarkt
Fort aan de Ossenmarkt
Admire this beautifully restored tower fortress and walk along the fortified moat and through the beautiful adjacent tea garden.
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Fortress Island Pampus
Fortress Island Pampus
Take the ferry from Muiden or Amsterdam IJburg or canoe to the island where you can enjoy all the activities as well as a nice glass of wine or a refreshing Pampus beer.
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Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot
Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot
Step through the water shield, walk in the castle grounds, and admire the falconer’s flight demonstrations at this 700-year-old castle.
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Dutch Fortress Museum
Dutch Fortress Museum
Take a guided walk over the Turfpoort bastion, learn about the function of the casements and visit the various impressive changing exhibitions.
Dauntless Defence Line of Amsterdam
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage
The city wall of Amsterdam is made of water! To defend the city, the Defence Line of Amsterdam comprises 46 fortresses and batteries and many dikes and locks. Globally unique.
More about the Defence Line of Amsterdam
