If you ask us, every town we visit has treasures of its own. But since we had never heard of Hoorn, we weren’t expecting the historic and nautical treasures awaiting us in this small town about 45 minutes from Amsterdam.
When you’re on a Viking tour — well, maybe any river cruise for that matter — you stop where it’s convenient to add a stop. At times, we’ve disembarked to see only one major cathedral or town hall or windmill, as it were.
But not this time. Hoorn (pronounced “hor-en”) exceeded all expectations and it’s a stop we’d add to anyone’s itinerary when traveling through The Netherlands.
Named for its horn-shaped harbor, this charming 17th century town sits at the edge of the IJsselmeer, a lake filled with vintage and new sailing and fishing boats as well as shops, residences, and historic buildings.
For us, the real treasure is the architecture, those step-gabled rooflines and brick facades adorned with small vignettes, signs, and interesting doorways. We found ourselves alerting each other with “Oh, look at this one” or the combination of jabbing and pointing to share yet another find.
We listened closely to our tour guide as she pointed out other notable sights, but, per usual, we’ve forgotten much of what we heard. Today, we look longingly at the photos and wish we could have a do-over in this sweet town by the sea.
Speaking of the waterfront, a second category of treasures to be savored lies in the assemblage of historic seaworthy vessels. The phrase “they don’t make ’em like that anymore” came up more than once, as we took turns pointing out nautical gems we didn’t want to miss.
If you’re visiting Holland, put Hoorn on your list of places to see for authentic Dutch architecture and a museum-like harbor. It’s worth at least a half-day or full day, especially if you like sitting outside or strolling leisurely while taking in the view.
Travel Holland,
Rusha & Bert
Note: Thanks to all of you who sent messages concerning my rotator cuff surgery and resulting time off from blogging. I’m much better but confined to using my left hand mostly as I regain strength and begin therapy four weeks from now. I’m connecting this post to Aletta’s Lens-Artists Photo Challenge #206 this week since this town fits the category well. But go to her site to see more entries on what people love. For us, our time in The Netherlands was some of the best we’ve spent abroad, mainly because of the architecture, art, harbors, and people. It’s a country we could return to again and again.
This post is one in a series prompted by a recent trip to The Netherlands and Belgium. Thank you to Viking cruises (Holland & Belgium 2022) and our travel agent, Lauren Gunnels of Ortelius Travel Advisors, for the arrangements and free time to enjoy the scenery!
WanderingCanadians
It’s neat that they even designed the harbour to be in the shape of a horn. The buildings look beautiful. They definitely don’t make houses or boats like that anymore! P.S. Glad to hear that you’re feeling better from your surgery. All the best with the recovery.
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much. I’m getting better each day. Glad to be able to type, etc. with my right hand!
Hoorn was a surprising find, and so indicative of all we had thought Holland would look like. Would enjoy a long weekend there!
Toonsarah
What an attractive small town – I would have such fun taking photos here! Glad to hear you are recovering well from the surgery 🤗
Oh, the Places We See
It really is a photographer’s dream town. Lots of historic homes and boats as well as quaint touches everywhere. Thanks for taking a look!
joannie6535
I remember well our visit to Hoorn on our Viking tour a few years back. Your photos and blog brought back so many memories! Thanks.
Oh, the Places We See
Glad we could connect. I love looking back at trips we’ve taken as well as what photos other tourists take. Same town. Different takes!
Leya
Looks great! I have been quite some times in Holland, but never in Hoorn! On my list now. Loved the ships and the flying dutchman! Happy to hear your surgery went well too – speedy recovery.
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much. I hope you get to see Hoorn, a real gem!
Aletta - nowathome
Rusha and Bert thank you for sharing this lovely gem of a town you have visited! I love the architecture and the historic seaworthy vessels. I had a good laugh at the flying Dutchman too! 😀 PS: Glad your rotator cuff surgery went well and that you are on the way to full recovery!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much. If there’s anything I could change about this trip, it would be to add more time for shopping and looking in this lovely town.
Aletta - nowathome
I can imagine that! ☺️
dawnkinster
It looks WONDERFUL!!!