Didn’t you notice how tranquil it is here in Kortenhoef? Kortenhoef. A village embraced by North Holland’s serene landscapes. Kortenhoef offers a peaceful escape just northwest of Hilversum.
Kortenhoef’s story began in 1235. It was then known as Curtenhoven. The name means short piece of land. This refers to the narrow plots in the peat excavation area. Imagine Kortenhoef developing in the 12th century. It grew as a linear settlement.
For a time, Kortenhoef contributed to Utrecht province. From 1814 to 1819, it was part of Utrecht. However, in 1819, Kortenhoef returned to North Holland. Kortenhoef was once its own municipality. That changed in 1966 when it merged with ‘s-Graveland. Later, in 2002, it joined Loosdrecht and Nederhorst den Berg. This formed the new municipality of Wijdemeren.
Around 1900, Kortenhoef transformed into a painter’s village. Artists were drawn to the beautiful landscape surrounding Kortenhoef. Constant Gabriël was a key figure around 1870. Kortenhoef became known as Het land van Gabriël because of him. Jacob Ritsema and Bernard van Beek were among other painters tied to Kortenhoef. Geesje Mesdag-van Calcar even built a studio on stilts by the water in 1904. Writer Nescio often wrote about Kortenhoef and its surroundings.
Consider the Kortenhoefse plassen. These lakes formed through peat excavations. After the peat digging stopped, people turned to animal husbandry and fishing. Today, only a few farms remain. Natuurmonumenten purchased much of the marginal agricultural land.
The Dutch Reformed church is a notable landmark in Kortenhoef. Its tower and choir date back to the second half of the 14th century. The former town hall showcases Renaissance Revival style. It was built in 1910 and extended in 1930.
Kortenhoef’s history is also reflected in its coat of arms. Granted in 1839, it honors Kortenhoef as a polder municipality. The shield features a horse’s foot and a pelican with its young.
Kortenhoef has a population of about 6,780. The village is located approximately 5 kilometers west of Hilversum. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is only 24 km away. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is 54 km from Kortenhoef.
As you explore Kortenhoef, remember its transformation. From peat fields to an artist’s haven. From Curtenhoven to Kortenhoef. This village continues to charm with its history and scenery.