Oud-Loosdrecht – Nature, Canoe Routes and History

Oud-Loosdrecht combines a distinctive wetland and water landscape with traces of its local history and a range of ways to experience the surrounding area. North of the village lies Vuntus, along with canoe routes, a walking route to the centre, and cultural and community events. If you are looking for a hotel in Oud-Loosdrecht, you can plan your stay around whether you mainly want to paddle, walk, learn about the history of the landscape, or attend an event. The differences below will help you take these interests into account when planning your trip.

Vuntus and the History of the Peat Landscape

To the east, the open water of Vuntus gives way to narrow ditches with old strips of land and peat woodland. Flower-rich hay meadows lie in the eastern part, where Limousin cattle graze in summer; the area is managed in an environmentally friendly way. Peat extraction has also shaped the landscape, creating strips of land and peat pits. The landscape of peat pits is still clearly visible around Oud-Loosdrecht. The area’s history can therefore also be read in its landforms.

Canoe Routes and Walking

The Vuntus canoe route, about 5 km long, follows the shore, where water mint and yellow irises grow. Numbered signs on blue poles mark the route; it takes approximately two hours. Vuntus Beach is at the end of Vuntuslaan in Oud-Loosdrecht. You can start the route at Vuntus Beach or at a canoe rental place in Loosdrecht; check the start-point information before setting off.

The Oud-Loosdrecht canoe and SUP route passes strips of land and willows, goes through peat woodland and crosses the open water of the Loosdrechtse Plassen. Hexagonal signs mark the route in one direction; there are several canoe landing places along the way. The two routes offer different ways to navigate: the Vuntus route has an approximate length and duration, while the Oud-Loosdrecht route is distinguished by its one-way markings and landing places. If you prefer to explore on foot, you can choose Rondje Vuntus: the walking route follows Oud-Loosdrechtsedijk into the centre of Oud-Loosdrecht.

Local History and Culture

Oud-Loosdrecht originated in the late Middle Ages as a settlement for draining and cultivating the peatlands. Archaeological excavations uncovered the foundations of firing rooms and a 5 x 50 metre workshop building. They are associated with Loosdrecht porcelain production from 1774 to 1784. This offers a historical perspective that spans the settlement’s medieval beginnings and a clearly dated period of 18th-century porcelain production.

The former Reformed Church of Oud-Loosdrecht replaced a medieval church on the same site. Its organ comes from Barsingerhorn and was made by Flaes & Brunjes in 1867. Oud-Loosdrecht Cemetery welcomes visitors looking for a place of quiet and reflection; it is located in the village centre, which has come back to life.

Events and the Fietsboot

Licht & Kunst Loosdrecht takes place every year in Oud-Loosdrecht. The atmospheric events bring young and old together.

The Fietsboot connects Porseleinhaven in Oud-Loosdrecht with De Strook in Breukeleveen and carries passengers with or without bicycles. It is also suitable for walkers, wheelchair users and people using electric mobility scooters. Check seasonal operating information and the vessel’s current suitability before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Ankeveen, Nieuw-Loosdrecht, ’S-Graveland, Breukeleveen, Kortenhoef, Loosdrecht, Nederhorst Den Berg

For the main travel overview: Wijdemeren.