Balk

At the Luts

Balk is located on the southside of the lake Slotermeer and originated from the regional cultivation on both sides of the water De Luts. The village probably owes his name to the bridge over De Luts, because a “balk” is a simple connection from shore to shore.

Glory days of Balk

De Luts was flanked by linden-trees and old gables. The decorated step-gables and neck-gables in Balk are a reminder of the prosperous time in the 18th century. Due to trade and traffic, mainly butter, Balk and its inhabitants enjoyed their success. Thanks to this welfare the village posesses a beautiful Municipality Building (1615) with a high terras and lions that hold the insignia of the region. The characteristic village got most of the fame because of the study of literature as Herman Gorter wrote his famous poem “Mei” (May) here.

What to do in Balk

Balk is a modest village, although there is plenty to do! There is shopping, you can walk, cycle and the village has a lot of history. Balk was once an important trading center, the main trade product was butter. Curious about the history of this village? Walk the free audio route, the starting point is at the so-called Bûterhûs (butter house). The route shows the special buildings and tells the story that belongs to it. The audio tour takes about an hour and ends at ‘t Bûterhûs, finish this walk with a nice cup of coffee or tea.