Heusden
© VisitBrabant

If you love to travel back to the 17th century, the fortified city of Heusden is the place for you. The fortified city of Heusden has completely renovated fortifications and 134 buildings are listed as monuments. The little city grew around one of the oldest water castles in Northwest Europe and was one of the first Dutch cities surrounded by a wall. The fortified city was thoroughly renovated after 1968. The basis for restoring this cultural heritage was the ‘map of Blaeu’ dating from 1649. It enabled Heusden to win ‘Urbes Nostrae’ in 1980, the highest European award for restoration projects. 

  • As many as 134 buildings in this fortified city are listed as national monuments.
  • Visit the historic inner city.
  • Enjoy the view on one of the pleasant terraces.
Address:
Pelsestraat 17
5256AT Heusden
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Heusden’s historic inner city

In the picturesque old streets and narrow alleys, you will keep finding countless centuries-old, beautifully preserved buildings and facades with beautiful stonework. The view of the imposing fortifications is well worth visiting. Why not go for a walk on top of the fortifications and enjoy the view of the boats in one of the two harbors, in the city marina and on the Meuse river. Rest your feet on one of the pleasant terraces that look out on a city square or in a lovely inner courtyard. Art lovers will find several art galleries in the center of the city. The great, special little boutiques are opened on Sunday throughout the year. Here, you’ll find fashion, antiques, tasteful souvenirs and decorations, and wonderful delicacies.

The Visitor Center is centrally located in the former city hall. Here, you’ll be able to admire a model of the fortifications as well as themed exhibitions throughout the year. On Sunday afternoons at 14:30, a city guide will be waiting to take you on an interesting walk through the fortified city.

Active in Heusden

If you are visiting the fortified city of Heusden, do take time to visit some of the beautiful natural areas nearby. The dikes that have lain around the entire municipality for centuries are a much loved cycling or walking route with a varied landscape. National Park De Loonse en Drunense Duinen can be found to the south of the city and represents 3,500 hectares of forest, heathland, and a large sand drift. The dunes are like a huge sand box for children, where they can build sandcastles and play for hours. It is the perfect landscape for wonderful cycling and walking tours. A great mountain biking itinerary has been established for sportive visitors.

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