Boating on the Linge. Enjoy the city from the water
In the heart of the Netherlands flows the enchanting Linge, winding through the picturesque landscape of the Betuwe. With its calm waters, lush green banks and picturesque villages, the Linge is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
Start in the Gorinchem Fortress
The historic fortified town of Gorinchem is located at the confluence of the Linge and Merwede rivers. Before you start your boat adventure, it is worthwhile to wander through the narrow streets and admire the fortifications. The cosy Lingehaven is the starting point of our voyage of discovery on the Linge.
Rent a sloop?
The Lingehaven is located in the middle of the fortress and is a popular mooring for pleasure boaters. If you do not have your own boat, you can rent one. Both Bootverhuur Gorinchem and Sloepverhuur Gorinchem rent out luxury sloops that do not require a boating licence.
You can hire the boats for a whole day or half a day. Choose from a lunch package at The Local Club or high tea at La Blique, accompanied by refreshing non-alcoholic drinks.
Tip: head for Leerdam! On the way, you’ll enjoy a beautiful trip along the Linge through the green countryside.
Picturesque villages and landscapes
Along the banks of the Linge are charming villages that seem to have stepped out of a postcard. Acquoy with its leaning tower, picturesque Asperen with its old church and shimmering reed beds, and cosy Heukelum, are just some of the gems you will encounter along the way.
Tip: also visit Glasstad Leerdam with its glassworks, located in an old wood shed near the marina. Here you can experience the craft up close six days a week.
Picnic or tea garden
Don't forget to dock occasionally and enjoy local delicacies at one of the cosy eateries. Tucked between reeds is one of our country's most idyllic spots; the tea garden with terrace at the Arkel-Spijk Cycle & Foot Ferry. Pay close attention to the sign, because before you know it you will have sailed past it.
During your cruise, it is also a great idea to bring a picnic basket. Find a picturesque spot on the bank and enjoy a delicious lunch amid the natural splendour of the Betuwe. The sloepverhuurders can take care of your picnic or other refreshments for you, ask about the possibilities.
On a real steamboat
Echt unique is sailing up the Linge on a real steamboat. Stoomsleepboot Jan de Sterke is retired, but sails with passengers from Gorinchem to Arkel and back for a few days in summer. Keep an eye on our diary for the dates!
Stand-up paddleboarding from De Wijnboutique
Prefer to get out on the water yourself? At De Wijnboutique, you can hire a stand-up paddleboard and explore the Lingehaven from the water. Paddle past the historic buildings, the cosy terraces and the boats in the harbour. A relaxing way to see Gorinchem from a different perspective.
After your stand-up paddleboarding session, you can pop into De Wijnboutique for a well-deserved drink. Enjoy a fine glass of wine by the beautiful Lingehaven and take in the view across the water. This way, you can combine an active outing on the water with a cosy evening in the heart of the fortified town.
