Rotterdam

A trip on the Rotte towards the city center. Starting point at the Rottemeren near Zevenhuizen. The distance towards Rotterdam is about 12 km and it will take at least 2 hours. Towards the city center is 2 km extra.

To reach the starting point: Exit the A12 between The Hague and Utrecht at Zevenhuizen. In the village Zevenhuizen turn right towards the Rottemeren. At the starting point there is a restaurant named Roerdomp with a terrace along the lake, but it is closed on Teusdays. There is a campsite De Koornmolen and there are a few kayaks for rent.

From here you go to the left. The lake narrows to the former river Rotte and it will lead you to Rotterdam. After 3 km there is a kayak pier on the left marked 14. Across the dike you will find a recreation area and the lake Zevenhuizer Meer. Ther is no kayak pier on the lake, just a sandy beach. From this point it is 9 km towards Rotterdam. At first the landscape is open, but gradually there are more houses along the side. Near the city rowing skiffs is very popular.

After you passed the bridge with the highway you come at a junction. To the left it will be about 1 km towards the lake Kralingse Plas. Straigt on you follow the Rotte towards the city center. There are no old buildings along the side like many other towns. But Rotterdam has some charm of its own. You will find some artistic things floating on the water. This is part of an artistic project lasting until September 2005. It is amazing how christal clear the water is. You can see water plants more than a meter below the surface. In the city there are several places where you can go to te side. When you come at the end of the canal you are near a main street where all the shops are. 

Every year in September a kayak race is organized by the Rotterdamsche Cano Club.

The Rotte: approaching Rotterdam

Locks to the Kralingse Plas with kayak pier

The end of the Rotte in the center of Rotterdam.