Walking route through fortified town on the Vecht Weesp. Because of the picturesque old center, Weesp also bears the nickname 'Little Amsterdam'. Discover along the way how beautiful and special Weesp is.

Listen to the accompanying audio tour via: https://523.myt.li/tour_1096365371.html

Already in the middle of the 12th century the name Weesp (Wesepe) appears in a deed. This settlement was strategically located, at the junction of the rivers Vecht and Smal Weesp, a good choice for a flourishing trading future. But it was also on the border of Holland and Utrecht, hence the military history that can be found everywhere here.

In 1355 Weesp was granted city rights. The town became prosperous through first an important cloth industry, then beer breweries and from the 16th to mid-18th century brandy and gin distilleries. After this, Weesp fell into poverty for a century, until around 1850 cocoa factory Van Houten settled here. This restarted Weesp's flowering, which continues to this day.

Weesp, just like Muiden, located a little further on the Vecht, has been part of three defensive lines: the Old and New Dutch Water Line and the Defence Line of Amsterdam. The earthen ramparts from the 17th and 19th centuries on the east and south sides of the city are still there.

Starting point route: Nieuwstad, at the bridge.

For more route tips, highlights in Gooi & Vecht and further tourist information, visit the official site of the region: www.visitgooivecht.nl