Walk along the Canals to Minnewater

The Minnewater or Water of Love, is a peaceful, lake-filled park with canals and swans. This was once far from quaint--a busy harbor where small boats shuttled cargo from the big, ocean-going ships into town.

When locals see these swans, they recall the 15th century mayor--famous for his long neck--who collaborated with the Austrians. The townsfold beheaded him as a traitor. The Austrians warned them that similarly long-necked swans would inhabit the place forever to remind them of this murder. And they do...


I couldn't tell if this swan was being friendly and maybe wanted food or if it was going to flog me, so I didn't get to close.

Here is one of the boat tours going along the canal. There was several tours going at the same time all day while we were there. The boats were packed every time, so we didn't bother taking that tour.