Getting married in the Otterskooi in Dwarsgracht
On a radiant spring or summer day, the route leads you to Dwarsgracht, a charming little village in the marshlands of the Weerribben–Wieden. There, at the end of the village canal, you’ll find Café Restaurant De Otterskooi – a unique wedding venue where peace, nature, and love come together to create an unforgettable day.
From the moment you arrive at the parking area and see the jetty, you feel the calm of the water. Your guests step out (some quite literally from their boats!) and are welcomed in one of the intimate dining rooms or on the spacious waterside terrace. The location right on the canal makes it truly special; water, greenery, and open space form the backdrop.
The ceremony can take place inside the cozy café-restaurant hall or — in good weather — outside by the water. Imagine a “walk-to-the-jetty” moment: guests gather on the terrace, the dream accents (flowers, candles, or little flags) complete the scene. All of that with a view over the picturesque surroundings. De Otterskooi is perfect for a full-day wedding: ceremony, reception, dinner, and party can all flow seamlessly under one roof — or in a tent on the terrace.
The day begins with coffee or bubbles, followed by delicious bites — from Dutch bar snacks to stamppot variations or a buffet. The finest regional products are combined with French finesse: choose from pike-perch, eel, tournedos, or vegetarian dishes; everything is prepared with care by the kitchen team.
In the middle of the large terrace (which can host anywhere from 150 to 500 people, depending on the setup), everyone enjoys sunshine, water, and cheerful conversations. Boating guests can dock with their sloops, while walkers and cyclists settle down on the terrace. Meanwhile, the staff ensures a steady flow of drinks, warm snacks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
After the drinks, dinner follows: choose from a buffet, barbecue, or an extensive sit-down dinner. The service is personal, tailored, and detailed: customized table arrangements, flowers to your taste, and all dietary wishes are respected.
In the evening, the venue transforms for the party. Indoors in the café hall or outside under a tent and strings of lights, there is room for live music or a DJ, a dance floor, and an intimate ambiance. Celebrations can continue late into the night — indoors even until 4:00 AM — ensuring your day can be enjoyed to the fullest.
What makes De Otterskooi special is not just the location but its versatility and flexibility. Whether you choose something intimate or go all out with family, friends, and colleagues — everything is possible. From group boat tours to bike trips, to barbecues and dance evenings, all of it can be part of your wedding day.
At the farewell, you feel how good company, good food, love, and watery beauty carry the day. The day ends with a final toast on the terrace, with the canal and nature fading into dusk. Your wedding at De Otterskooi becomes a day filled with togetherness, timeless beauty, and pure joy. And above all: a day you will cherish with your loved ones.
In short: getting married at De Otterskooi in Dwarsgracht means choosing a wedding day full of nature, love, water, and warm Dutch charm — perfect for any couple who loves tranquility, space, and the unique Dutch landscape.
