Slides

Fortified towns in the vicinity of Amsterdam.

As the countryside southeast of Amsterdam was strategically important for its defence, there are 3 small fortified towns within easy cycling range : Weesp, Muiden and Naarden.
Plus an abundant number of forts, bunkers and other military constructions all over that region.
Weesp and Muiden are the only towns in the Netherlands that were part of two defence lines : the Dutch Waterline (running north-south) and the Defence Line of Amsterdam, a 135 km long circular defence around the city (on the UNESCO world heritage list).
In a full day bicycle trip, it is possible to discover the three towns.

Weesp is a small town (20.000 inhabitants) about 15 km south-east from the centre of Amsterdam.
A charming fortified centre, 3 windmills in town and others in the countryside around. City hall built in 1776 (on UNESCO top 100 list Dutch heritage sites) with local museum, gothic 15th-century church with tower partly of around 1200 AD, and more.
The station of Weesp is an ideal starting point for day trips. Frequent and direct train lines from Amsterdam Central (takes about 15 minutes) and Schiphol Airport. Generally 4 trains per hour in all directions. See timetables railroads.

Weesp


Muiden is a small fortified town 2 miles or 3 km north of Weesp.
Home port of a fleet of traditional sailing ships. At the mouth of the river Vecht, the medieval castle Muiderslot.
Ferry to the fortress Island of Pampus. The boat ride takes about half an hour. Interesting location and great views, but count a couple of hours for a visit.

Muiden


Naarden (about 8 km east of Weesp) is one of the best preserved fortified towns in Europe. With an intact double ring of 17th century fortifications, and many historical buildings. More on fortified Naarden - click here.
In one of the bastions you can visit the interesting Fortress Museum.

Naarden

  For a quick tour in pictures, you could flip through the photo pages.

As this region is perfect for bicycle daytrips, here a few thematic suggestions.
You can also watch a couple of video clips.
More info links on the regional pages of Weesp, Muiden and Naarden.

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