Dreaming of the simple life? Try the village in the Netherlands with no roads (but you'll need a boat)


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.

Scroll down for video



Rustic: Giethoorn is known as the Venice of the Netherlands

It's no surprise Giethoorn i s 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

The bridges are made entirely from wood