Houtribdijk, Compartmentation dam between Enkhuizen and Lelystad, Netherlands
The Houtribdijk is a compartmentation dam stretching over 25 kilometers between Enkhuizen and Lelystad, separating the IJsselmeer from the Markermeer. The road runs parallel to water on both sides, offering a continuous asphalt surface with a cycle path along the entire length.
Construction began in 1963 as part of the Zuiderzee Works project and was completed in 1976, linking North Holland with the newly formed province of Flevoland. The structure was originally intended to enable the reclamation of additional land in the Markermeer, but these plans were later abandoned.
Locals refer to this structure simply as a daily link connecting historic fishing towns with reclaimed territory across open water. Cyclists and motorcyclists appreciate the long views over both lake surfaces during the crossing.
Crossing takes about 15 to 20 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions, with several parking areas along the route. Cyclists should expect wind exposure, as the top of the dam sits completely open above the water.
Halfway across sits Trintelhaven, a small harbor with a restaurant and emergency berths for vessels during rough weather. From here, a medium-wave transmitter also broadcasts, its mast clearly visible above the flat terrain.
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