Stede Broec brings together the villages of Bovenkarspel, Grootebroek and Lutjebroek in a landscape shaped by water and greenery.
Together with Bovenkarspel and Grootebroek, it forms Stede Broec. A municipality between land and water, with the Markermeer at your feet. Broekerhaven is home to the harbour of Stede Broec, a small marina with a unique piece of heritage: De Overhaal. This ship lift was once used to hoist barges from the harbour to the lower-lying polder canal. And, of course, back again. Just round the corner lies Het Streekbos, an unspoilt area for anyone who fancies a stroll in the countryside.
Nearby, Het Streekbos offers plenty of space for walking, cycling and outdoor activities. Add waterways, village life and local heritage, and Stede Broec makes an easy place to spend a day exploring.
Lifting a boat over land. Just because you can. In Broekerhaven, they have been doing it since 1923 with De Overhaal. An electric boat lift that lifts boats out of the water, moves them over rails and lowers them again on the other side.
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Klimpark Streekbos is located in the middle of the Streekbos and challenges you to go up in the air. You climb through various courses, from low and clear to higher and a bit more exciting. Finished climbing? Then you can also play midget golf, 'klootschieten' or play an escape game.
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At Happy Days in Grootebroek, you can easily make it a day of fun. First the go-kart track, the laser hall or a game of pool. And then sit down to stone grilling, gourmet food or a buffet.
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You see the polder differently from a sup. You paddle through the water, between reeds, banks and open air. Quiet if you can, sporty if you want.
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In Bovenkarspel, you don't have to wait for a clear night for stars. The observatory has an observatory, an exhibition area and a planetarium. In the showcases, you can see different material all the time, changing every six months. And in the planetarium, you can view the night sky from inside.
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Fancy a show? Then Het Postkantoor is the place for you. In the heart of Stede Broec , you’ll find this cultural venue housed in a listed building. It’s the place to go for theatre, film and a no-fuss night out.
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At Gouwe Voeten in Bovenkarspel, shoes and socks come off. The barefoot trail takes you across grass, mud, wood, water and other natural surfaces, offering a playful way to experience the outdoors. It’s fun for children and adults alike, and getting a little muddy is all part of the experience. Bring a towel – you’ll probably need it afterwards.
Walk the pathTake off your shoes and follow a trail across grass, mud, wood and water. A playful outdoor experience for children and adults in the green surroundings of Bovenkarspel. More information about the barefoot path Gouwe Voeten
Streekhof shopping centre in Bovenkarspel brings a wide range of shops and services together under one roof. Browse well-known brands and local businesses, pick up your everyday essentials or stop for a coffee along the way. It’s also a convenient option when the weather isn’t on your side.
Fruitkwekerij ’t Keetje in Lutjebroek combines a fruit farm, farm shop, lunchroom, care farm and experience garden. Apples, pears, plums, cherries and berries are grown here, alongside a range of other local produce. Stop by the farm shop, enjoy coffee and homemade apple pie or take a walk through the garden. There is also plenty of space for children to explore and play.
Breakfast at 't KeetjeAt Fruitkwekerij 't Keetje in Lutjebroek, get fruit, local produce and a hearty slice of apple pie. You will find a farm shop, lunchroom, terrace, experience garden and care farm. Just a lot of good things in one yard. Homegrown, with no fuss. More info about Fruitkwekerij 't Keetje
Water, reeds and rugged edges. In De Weelen, you can paddle through old polder countryside between Andijk and Enkhuizen. No neatly raked land here, but ditches, meadows and birds all around you. Paddle gently, look closely. The polder does the rest.
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Forest, water and beach in one area. At Het Streekbos in Bovenkarspel, you just step onto the water. Rowing, playing, swimming or just sitting by the pond. Nice and clear, but never boring. And afterwards? Shoes off, sand between your toes.
To 't Streekbos
At the helm yourself? At RIJO Boat Rental in Lutjebroek you rent a motorboat or canoe. From there, you can sail straight into the polder towards Het Grootslag and the Lutjebroeker Weel. Calm water, wide skies, head in the wind. That's all it needs to be. Don't forget to bring some snacks?
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Climb aboard and discover how the water once connected Stede Broec and Enkhuizen . The historic sailing chart takes you along old waterways that were once indispensable to farmers and market gardeners. You can still see traces of them in the landscape. Sail the route yourself or pick up a map from a tourist information point or a leisure operator. That West Frisian water is something special.
View the boating map
In Stede Broec , you can go for walks, go boating, go climbing, try stand-up paddleboarding and enjoy a delicious meal. You’ll find Het Streekbos, the Gouwe Voeten barefoot trail, De Overhaal, Theater Het Postkantoor and the Orion Public Observatory. Lutjebroek is also part of the area, featuring Fruitkwekerij ’t Keetje and Thee in de Tuin. Tip: combine nature with a tasty treat. First, get some mud on your shoes; then enjoy some apple pie. A day here can be that simple.
With children, you will be in good hands at Het Streekbos, Klimpark Streekbos and Blotevoetenpad Gouwe Voeten. At Gouwe Voeten, you can take off your shoes and get your feet dirty. Het Streekbos offers space to walk, play and go to the water. Tip: bring dry socks, a towel and some extra clothes. Wet feet are not bad luck here, but part of the plan.
For walking in Stede Broec , Het Streekbos is an obvious choice. You’ll walk through greenery, alongside water and along paths where you can clear your head. De Weelen nature reserve is also worth a visit if you enjoy reeds, birds and polder countryside. Tip: go early in the day or just before dusk. It’s quieter then, and you’ll often spot a bit more going on.
In Stede Broec , you can take to the water at De Weelen, Het Streekbos and via RIJO Boat Hire. Activities include canoeing, boating, stand-up paddleboarding or simply drifting peacefully through the polder landscape. Broekerhaven harbour is also a lovely spot to have a look around. Tip: check the wind conditions and opening hours in advance. Sailing with the wind in your face is lovely, but you don’t want to be caught in a force six gale.
For food and drink in Stede Broec , head to IJgenweis Streekbos, Restaurant MiZo, De Woeste Hoogte, Thee in de Tuin and Fruitkwekerij ’t Keetje. IJgenweis is a great spot after a walk. De Woeste Hoogte is situated by the IJsselmeer. MiZo is a great spot for sushi and Asian food. Tip: do check the opening times for each venue. Some places are seasonal or aren’t open every day.