Historic trail of discovery Hollandse Waterlinie

This exciting walking-cum-cycling trail takes in three provinces in the so-called ‘fortified triangle’, delineated by the historic fortresses of Gorinchem, Woudrichem and Loevestein. It is a journey through the rich history of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie, the waterline defence system. The ancient fortified walls and beautifully restored town gates are throwbacks to a past 600 years ago. The ferries along the route provide for additional excitement and adventure.

The history of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie.

The Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie is a waterline defence system that was built in the 19th century to protect the west of the Netherlands from attack. Thanks to a unique system of dykes, pumping stations and sluices, it was possible to flood a strip of land running north to south from Muiden to the Biesbosch, so denying the enemy the possibility to invade. Gorinchem, Woudrichem and Loevestein were key links in the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. It provides a fascinating story of how the Netherlands made use of water in the delta to deter possible aggressors.

Information

Plan your historic walking trail here or your cycle trail here or book tickets here for ferry tickets across the river.

More history & activities

Slot Loevestein

If you’re a history lover with a passion for castles and legends of old, a visit to Slot Loevestein, which once served as a state prison, will most certainly not go amiss. The medieval castle tells the story of days of old: an adventure for young and old. www.loevestein.nl

Bike along the dyke

A waterside cycle trail which follows some of the most beautiful dykes in the Netherlands. Enjoy the splendid sites along the way: riverside views, fortifications, ancient windmills and historic farmsteads. Stop awhile for lunch or a snack at one of the many pubs and café along the way. More info

Woudrichem fisheries museum

In the old days, they would fish for salmon and shad on the river Merwede. The fisheries museum in Woudrichem gives an impression of the glory days of freshwater fishing in the delta. More info

Kruiden en Jasmijn

Sheltered between the old town wall and the commanding edifice of the Arsenaal, the garden of Restaurant Kruiden en Jasmijn (Herbes and Jasmine) in Woudrichem is the perfect setting for wining and dining away a summer’s evening. www.kruidenenjasmijn.nl/

Monument en Bed het Tolhuis

The 16th century stair tower of Gorinchem’s old toll house (Tolhuis) has been converted into a luxury self-catering apartment. The toll house stands on the site of a former castle frequented by the counts of Holland in the Middle Ages. More info