The Secret East

 

OVERIJSSEL
The province of Overijssel is located between the IJsselmeer in the west and Germany in the east. Zwolle is the capital; other cities include Almelo, Deventer, Enschede and Kampen. The IJssel River and several canals drain the province. It has a typical continental climate and landscape with lovely woods, ancient towns, interesting castles and manor houses. Kampen used to be a member of the Hanseatic League. The picturesque village of Giethoorn has numerous small canals on which you can make wonderful boat trips. Zwolle is a perfect town for interesting and scenic historic walks. While doing so, consider a visit to the Stedelijk Museum in the historic center and learn about Zwolle's and Overijssel's history.

GELDERLAND
Gelderland borders on Germany in the east. Arnhem, the capital, is known for its role in World War II (the Battle of the Rhine Bridge “A Bridge Too Far,” which was part of Operation Market Garden). The Airborne Museum in Oosterbeek shows the course of events during this battle. Gelderland is also known for National Park ‘De Hoge Veluwe’ (Holland’s first and largest national park) where the remarkable Kröller-Müller Museum is located. This museum has indoor and outdoor exhibits, including 270 works by Van Gogh and sculptures by Rodin, Moore, Tadjiri, Marini and more.