The Stepped Mast Route is 114 km long and stretches from the IJsselmeer to the Hollands Diep. As you travel the beautiful waters of the route, you pass various old Dutch towns which are definitely worth a visit. You can easily find a place to spend the night in the harbours of many towns even in autumn, so heading out for a weekend with your boat will pose no problem.

Leiden, city of discoveries
To visit the city of Leiden, you will need to leave the main route and take a short detour. Leiden is famous for its history and culture, but there is also a lot to do. On 3 October, the city celebrates the Relief of Leiden. In accordance with tradition, this annual event is celebrated by the eating of herring and white bread and it is packed with festivities. Various top Dutch artists such as Peter Koelewijn, Edsilia Rombley, CB Milton, Berget Lewis and Gordon will be performing on 2 and 3 October. Until 15 October, Leiden harbour makes an excellent place to spend the night.

Gouda from the Water
Did you know that the city of Gouda is easy to explore from the water? The singel (defensive moat) and the canals flow past and through the historic city centre, which boasts more than 300 historic monuments. When we think of historic monuments, old buildings are what usually spring to mind. Less eye-catching but certainly as special is the Gouda waterstelsel (water system), which runs through the city centre in almost its original condition. Learn more about Gouda’s rich water-related history on the water walk. This walk takes you past special places, such as the Binnenhavenmuseum (inland harbour museum), the Tollhouse, the Houtmansplantsoen and the Hanepraai. Until 1 November, Gouda harbour makes an excellent place to spend the night.

More information
For more information about old Dutch towns on the Stepped Mast Route, see Zuid-Holland.com. You can find the programme of the Relief of Leiden at www.3october.nl. You can book the Gouda water walk at Gouda tourist information office on T. 0900-468 3288.