The Veluwemeer Aqueduct is a navigable aqueduct located in Harderwijk, the Netherlands. Inaugurated in 2002, it stretches 25 metres long and 19 metres wide above the provincial road N302, allowing boats to pass overhead while vehicles continue their route underneath.
Galerie photos
Apdency, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
A remarkable piece of engineering
Inaugurated in 2002, the Veluwemeer Aqueduct was designed to allow the N302 — an important provincial road — to pass beneath a navigable canal without interrupting maritime traffic. Unlike bridges or tunnels, this structure lets water flow freely above the road, offering an innovative and visually striking solution.
Technical features
The aqueduct measures roughly 25 metres long and 19 metres wide, with a water depth of about 3 metres. It can accommodate medium-sized boats while allowing up to 28,000 vehicles per day to travel underneath. The structure relies on watertight retaining walls and solid foundations, ensuring stability and long-term durability.
A point of interest for visitors
Beyond its functional purpose, the Veluwemeer Aqueduct draws many curious visitors. It can be admired from the banks or by boat, offering a unique vantage point on the intersection between road infrastructure and waterway. It’s also a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Access
The aqueduct is located just outside Harderwijk, in the province of Gelderland. It is easily accessible by car via the N302, and nearby parking areas allow visitors to observe the structure safely.
