Best holiday resort in the Netherlands: Enkhuizen

Here comes the third part of our introduction to our winners of the atraveo prize for the best holiday resort 2014. Last week we introduced you to Warnemünde as the best German holiday resort and to Malcesine as the best Italian holiday resort.

And similarly to Germany and Italy, there is also a repeat winner in the Netherlands with regard to the region where the best holiday resort can be found. This is because the prize again goes to a place in North Holland. However, after having the coastal towns of Egmond and Julianadorp as winners in the last two years, this time it was the turn of a place at the IJsselmeer – with Enkhuizen receiving the prize. Enkhuizen obtained an average rating of 4.52 and thereby just prevailed over the competitors in its own country.

In the Middle Ages, the place was especially well-known for its herring fishermen. At the time, more than half of all Dutch fishing was via the town. Later, in the 17th and 18th Century, Enkhuizen experienced great prosperity during the so-called “Golden Age”. Due to the sheltered location at the IJsselmeer, the town was an ideal trading centre where goods from all over the known world were handled. Among other things, the famous East India Trading Company had its seat here. Some stately and well-preserved town houses still bear witness to this period. In addition to this historical heritage, Enkhuizen is, above all, an ideal holiday resort nowadays. Many leisure possibilities in the near vicinity, great water sports on offer at the IJsselmeer, and numerous possibilities for cycling excursions along the tulip fields make the place a holiday destination where the whole family will feel at home.

“It’s a tranquil place with beautiful old houses and cosy narrow streets. We felt as though time had stood still.”

“The whole town, the water and the harbours are pure Holland. There is definitely a lot on offer for children, and all the people in the place are very friendly and helpful.”

“Beautiful, picturesque, little town. Perfect for a few days as a base for day trips to Amsterdam, Lelystad (Batavia Stad) and/or cycling tours around the IJsselmeer. Also ideal for sailors as some harbours extend into the city.”

You can find these comments and more under: www.atraveo.com/enkhuizen

On Wednesday, the introduction to our first debut winner of the atraveo prize will follow with Moraira. We have awarded the prize in Spain for the first time. And on Friday, it is the turn of Split in Croatia to have its premiere.

And the other winners that have been profiled so far can be viewed here:

Warnemünde (Germany)

Malcesine (Italy)