Utrecht is the smallest province in the Netherlands, but perhaps also the most versatile. Indeed, in this province, city and nature are never far away. The bustling cities of Utrecht and Amersfoort offer beautiful city centres, lively restaurants and a rich culture. Outside the cities, you will find forests, water, a typically Dutch polder landscape and picturesque villages. Discover the province of Utrecht!
Utrecht is among the nicest cities in the Netherlands. The city is of course known for its historic canals. On a sunny day, these are perhaps the most beautiful in the Netherlands, because of the cosy terraces along the wharf. Not to be missed in Utrecht are the Dom tower, the Museum Quarter and the imposing library. Those who look further will see that the city has much more to offer. From multicultural Lombok to the archaeological history of Castellum Hoge Woerd, there is plenty to see and do in Utrecht! A big tourist attraction is the Rietveld Schröderhuis. This is the masterpiece of architect-designer Gerrit Rietveld. The unique house is completely executed according to the ideas of the De Stijl art movement.
If you need some peace and quiet after a pleasant day in Utrecht, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is the place to be. This National Park is known for its beautiful sand drifts, heathlands, forests and country estates with historic castles. The Utrecht Ridge offers many opportunities for a day in the green. For instance, dozens of routes have been mapped out for a relaxing walk through nature. This region is also known for its many cycling and mountain biking routes. Did you know that with a bit of luck you can also spot animals? Bring your camera, because deer, ermines and more than a hundred bird species, among others, live on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug!
In picturesque Spakenburg, you immediately get the feeling of walking through a historical painting. In the lively fishing village, villagers like to meet in the open air, such as at the magnificent old ship carpentry yard. Feel like taking to the water yourself? Then join a boat trip on the Eemmeer, the former Zuiderzee. Near Spakenburg is Soestdijk Palace, where Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard lived for a long time. From the royal residence to the seventeenth-century hunting lodge: here you can experience the royal family up close.
Other impressive sights in the province of Utrecht are the historic water lines. The Old and New Dutch Waterline formed the backbone of our defence for centuries. The Grebbelinie acted as a delaying buffer for the Hollandse Waterlinie. Today, several remnants of the lines are still visible. Visit, for example, Fort Rhijnauwen, Fort Ruigenhoek and Fort Vechten. These forts are connected by several cycle routes.
Fancy discovering the versatile province of Utrecht? Then book a holiday at one of the many campsites, holiday homes, Bed & Breakfasts or group accommodations of In Het Groen!
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