The Vibrant South

Vlissingen, ZeelandGemert, Noord-BrabantHills, Limburg

ZEELAND

This province is bounded by the North Sea in the west and borders on Belgium in the south. Water sport fans take to Zeeland like fish to water. Walcheren in particular has numerous attractions for families. The coast of Zeeland and its hinterland is fascinating all year round. People interested in the rich history of Zeeland can enjoy themselves in one of its many historic towns. Middelburg, the capital, has no less than 1100 monuments. The fascinating story of how the Dutch finally conquered the sea is told at Waterland Neeltje Jans, a former work island, that now accommodates an informative exhibition. Neeltje Jans is located at Burgh-Haamstede.

NOORD-BRABANT

Bordering on Belgium in the south and the province Limburg in the east, Noord-Brabant extends west to the Oosterschelde, almost to the North Sea. The capital is ‘s Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), and other cities include Eindhoven, Tilburg and Breda. Vincent van Gogh was born in the village of Nuenen. This province has a most varied landscape and offers the visitor many choices of outdoor activities and attractions, such as the Efteling. When you enter this amusement park, you walk into a wonderland, packed with excitement for everyone. From fairytale forest, where ancient tales come to life, to various thrill rides. The Efteling has received major international awards because of its wide range of activities and the way they are presented.

LIMBURG

The province of Limburg borders on Belgium in the west and south and Germany in the east. Maastricht is the capital, a beautiful medieval city with a Burgundian atmosphere. It is known for its cuisine, ambiance and the worldwide renowned Tefaf International Art and Antiques Fair, organized each year in March. Other cites are Venlo, Heerlen, Roermond and Sittard. Limburg is known for its beautiful landscape with castles, green hills, picturesque villages and great hiking and biking facilities. Besides wonderful walks through the ancient historic center of Maastricht and the enjoyment of culinary feasts in one of the many restaurants, consider a visit to the Bonnefantenmuseum. The museum consists of a new building, designed by renowned architect Aldo Rossi, and a restored section of the historic Wiebengahal, which houses art collections from the medieval age to the 18th century.