New Dutch Waterline

New Dutch Waterline – A UNESCO Military Masterpiece

The New Dutch Waterline (Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Netherlands’ most impressive examples of defensive water engineering. Built between the 19th and 20th centuries, this 85-kilometre-long military defense system used controlled flooding to protect key cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht from invaders. Combined with the Defence Line of Amsterdam, it forms the largest defensive structure in the Netherlands.

A Unique Water Defence System

Expanding on the 17th-century Old Dutch Waterline, this strategic masterpiece featured over 45 fortresses, locks, dikes, and canals. In times of war, the land could be flooded with just 40 cm of water, making it too deep for soldiers to cross but too shallow for boats—an ingenious defense method that remained effective for decades.

Exploring the New Dutch Waterline

• Fortresses & Bunkers – Visit well-preserved forts such as Fort Vechten, Fort Rijnauwen, and Werk aan het Spoel, many of which now host museums, restaurants, and cultural events.
• Cycling & Walking Routes – Discover the New Dutch Waterline Trail, passing historic defenses and scenic waterways.
• Waterworks & Flood Locks – See how water management played a crucial role in military strategy at sites like the Diefdijk and Plofsluis.
• GeoFort – An interactive science museum in a historic fort, perfect for families and tech enthusiasts.

Top Attractions Along the Waterline

• Fort Vechten – Home to the Waterline Museum, where you can explore the history and technology behind this unique defense system.
• Utrecht & the Waterline – The city of Utrecht played a central role in the Waterline, with its surrounding forts offering a mix of history, nature, and gastronomy.
• Muiden & Muiderslot Castle – A historic fortress guarding the Waterline, dating back to the 13th century.
• Fort Pannerden – A fortress hidden underground, offering guided tours and interactive exhibitions.

Discover the New Dutch Waterline with ITOtours

At ITOtours, we offer tailor-made excursions exploring the New Dutch Waterline, from fortress visits and cycling tours to interactive museum experiences. Whether you’re fascinated by military history, Dutch engineering, or scenic landscapes, we create custom itineraries to suit your interests.