The Markermeer is incredibly roomy and big enough to sail all day in The Netherlands. There is always a beautiful harbor town nearby. So, check out the beautiful Markermeer lake near Amsterdam right now in this article!
1. Markermeer: A beautiful lake in North Holland
In the center of the Netherlands, between North Holland, Flevoland, and its two larger and smaller neighbors, the IJmeer and IJsselmeer, is the 700 km2 Markermeer lake. Named after the little former island, now the peninsula, of Marken on its west side, Marken Lake is a shallow lake with a depth of 3 to 5 meters that match the reclaimed land to its west, north-west, and east.
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2. A brief history of Markermeer
It wasn’t always intended for the Markermeer to be a lake. It was previously a portion of the Zuiderzee, a saltwater inlet of the North Sea, which was turned into the freshwater IJsselmeer in 1932 after being walled off by the Afsluitdijk (Closure Dike). In the years that followed, massive polders were created out of vast land reclamation projects known as the Zuiderzee Works. The Markerwaard, one of these, was also supposed to be located where the Markermeer is today.
The Houtribdijk, also known as Markerwaarddijk, which hydrologically divides the IJsselmeer in two, with the southern section being the Markermeer, was built as part of the construction of this polder and completed in 1976. The Markerwaard was postponed permanently in the 1980s due to shifting priorities and concerns about its financial viability. Since then, the Markermeer has developed into an independent ecological and recreational asset.
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3. Sailing is the best way to enjoy this lake!
You may compete with the finest in windsurfing, waterskiing, and sailing in this popular area for pleasure boating and other water activities. From a port on the Markermeer or IJsselmeer, sail in one day to the coast of North Holland. Besides, visit the lovely harbor towns of Enkhuizen, Hoorn, and Volendam. Even making the entire trip to Amsterdam is also an option!
There is always a remote possibility that sailing on the Markermeer will result in an urban highlight, such as an extra stop in Amsterdam. The Sixhaven marina is only a few kilometers away from the IJsselmeer. It is situated on the outskirts of the historic city center. The always attractive port is only a short ferry trip from downtown.
4. Cycling around Markermeer lake
Would you prefer to ride around the Markermeer? of course! Cycle along roads through picturesque villages. Elizabeth, a commanding three-master, is often close by. In this manner, you can return “home” following your bike journey.
5. Can you swim in the Markermeer?
Enjoy Marker Wadden’s wide beach. Swimming is possible. However, it’s only permitted at beaches and your own risk.
6. Check out Het Paard van Marken
There are many places to stop and quench your thirst in the historical and gorgeous harbors that you will visit. You can visit Het Paard van Marken, a lighthouse on the lake’s eastern shore.
On the Dutch peninsula of Marken, in the IJsselmeer, there is the Paard van Marken lighthouse. J. Valk constructed it in 1839. Since the early 18th century, there has been a simple lighthouse there; the current lighthouse has been a listed structure since 1970.