Staphorst Attractions

In western Overijssel, amid extensive areas of pastures, is Staphorst, an old town very conscious of its traditions. Farmsteads along main streets (the Oude Rijksweg and the Gemeenteweg) are painted blue and green. The manners and customs of Staphorst and the surrounding area differ from those in other parts of the country. The people are strongly Calvinist and extremely conservative. Their costumes are different on working days and on holidays, when the women wear mid-length skirts striped dark blue and black, with blue aprons.

The villagers are not fond of being photographed by tourists, though the children, who also wear traditional costume, do not mind having their photograph taken. In any event permission should always be obtained before taking a photograph.