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Cities in the area
Discover the fortified towns of Nieuwpoort and Gorinchem, where fortifications, old city gates and plaques remind you of the fascinating past. The ramparts in Gorinchem invite you to stroll around this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fortified town of Nieuwpoort
The name Nieuwpoort is derived from the Latin words ‘Nova’ and ‘Portus’, meaning ‘New Port’. Around 1200, this small town was founded by the lords of Liesveld and Langerak. Nieuwpoort played a role in the functioning of the Oud-Hollandse Waterlinie (this was a military defence line in the 17th and 18th centuries). In the 17th century, Prince William of Orange ordered that Nieuwpoort be given ramparts and canals in a fortress with six bastions. A pleasant walk along the fortifications can be combined with a visit to the Nieuwpoort Museum in the town hall, where the history of Nieuwpoort.

In the corner of Alblasserwaard and on the UNESCO World Heritage List are the 19 mills of Kinderdijk. When they were built, their job was to pump the extra water from the polders, a function they can still perform in an emergency. Here the water from the polders is discharged into the river to keep the polders habitable. In Kinderdijk, they use the wind to serve the people, the land and the water around Kinderdijk. A visit to Kinderdijk and two of the “visiting mills” is highly recommended if you are interested in Dutch water management.

The Alblasserwaard is home to several museums. Most have exhibitions that change every now and then, but usually permanent exhibitions that can be visited throughout the year. These museums focus on the local history of the Alblasserwaard, the people who live there and old trades.

Locally made products are popular in the part of the Netherlands. There are several farms that make their own products, such as ice cream from fresh milk, cheese made with milk from their own cows and other dairy products. There are not many vineyards in the Netherlands, but in Goudriaan you can look around 2 different vineyards! Also, many restaurants in this area work with local products from their neighbours.

Perhaps you want to explore your destination in a sustainable way? Rent a bike from one of the local bike shops or put on your walking shoes! You can find maps specially made for cycling or walking at local tourist offices. Take your pick and discover this rural area in a sustainable way!

“A unique area with magnificent nature, picturesque villages and historical fortified city!”