Island hopping and strolling along historical sites

August 17, 2021

A region worth getting to know! Visit the fortified town of Willemstad and take a beautiful walk along the southern water defence line. Discover unspoilt islands in the Biesbosch National Park and wander through historic Oosterhout, with its beautiful buildings, park and welcoming eateries.

Tip: stay the night, so you can enjoy this region for longer. More inspiration in the west of Brabant? Also take a look at From royal Breda to Little Rome in one day or From Moses bridge to a town full of monuments.

The town of Willemstad lies on the Hollands Diep river and has a beautiful, picturesque harbour. Stroll through the old streets, view the historic defence structures or take a boat trip and explore the river. You can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants, beautifully situated on the waterfront.

Did you know that Willemstad is part of the Zuiderwaterlinie walking route? The Zuiderwaterlinie (southern water defence line) is the oldest, longest and most used of all Dutch water defence lines. In Dinteloord, a village to the south of Willemstad, you can board a boat at the Waterkant marina and discover the unique Southern Water Defence Line from the water.

Or would you prefer to explore the surroundings on foot? It is now a lovely walking trail that leads you past a unique chain of 11 fortified towns in Brabant and their surrounding areas. From Bergen op Zoom in the southwest to Grave in the northeast of Brabant.

Closer to

lively harbours
Closer to

unique experiences
Closer to

charming streets

A must visit if you are adventurous: National Park De Biesbosch! This unique freshwater tidal area with its willow groves and creeks is a must for nature lovers. Not only a beautiful area for walking, but also fantastic to discover from the water: from island to island. You might even spot a beaver or a white-tailed eagle!

The Biesbosch Museum Island is the ideal starting point for your trip through this beautiful area. The museum shows the history, the present and the future of De Biesbosch, but most of all it shows how mankind has shaped the area and still uses it to earn a living. Your cycling, walking or sailing trip in the Biesbosch starts here!

Biesbosch Museum Island

Oosterhout is synonymous with good food and hospitality. Find the best products in one of the shopping areas or visit one of the historical buildings, castles or palaces. Hiking and cycling enthusiasts can enjoy themselves in De Vrachelse Heide heath or Boswachterij Dorst forest. Or plan your own route via visitbrabant.com/routes. Want to end your day on a high note? Below we suggest some restaurants and hotels.