Fort Altena
Oldest Brabant fort of the New Dutch Waterline, now nature portal
Fort Altena, the fort on the Uppelse Dike
Fort Altena is the oldest of the four Brabant forts in the New Dutch Water Line and is located on the Uppelse Dijk near Werkendam. The historic fort is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and today serves as a great starting point for exploring the nature, culture, and history of the Biesbosch Line.
Visit the fort, walk or bike through the surrounding countryside, discover the history on a guided tour, or enjoy a drink at the brasserie. Several walking, biking, and boating routes also start from Fort Altena .
A fort with a long history
Fort Altena dates from 1847–1850. The tower of Fort Altena owes its name primarily to its round shape, not to its height. It consists of two levels: a basement and a ground floor. The walls are “bombproof” and nearly 2 meters thick, designed to protect against artillery strikes. Ironically, by the time it was completed, these walls had already been rendered obsolete by developments in the arms industry. As a result, they were never truly bombproof.
In 1878, the fort underwent extensive renovations and was expanded to three times its original size. It also changed its name: from then on, it was called “Fort aan den Uppelschen Dijk.”
Fort Altena during the World Wars
World War I
The Netherlands mobilized during both World Wars, and that meant that the fort was manned at full strength. However, there was never any fighting; World War I passed the Netherlands by, except for mobilization, and in World War II the capitulation was signed before a shot was fired at the fort. During the occupation, however, German soldiers were regularly stationed at the fort. Otherwise it was mainly used as an ammunition depot.
World War II
Leading up to World War II, a large number of group shelters (casemates) were built in the line. One of these is now in use as a bird observation point. This dome casemate can be visited, and is within walking distance of Fort Altena.
After World War II, the fort served as an internment camp for NSB members and other Dutch nationals who were considered "wrong" because of their actions during the war. In February 1949, it was one of the last camps to be closed.
Fortification of no class
In 1951, the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie was abolished as a defensive structure, and Fort Altena was given the status of "fortification of no class. It remained in the possession of the State, and was used, among other things, as storage for ammunition and vehicles and for target practice. In the years 1980-'92, the fort was used by a Dutch stay-behind organization.
National monument, cultural heritage, recreation and meeting venue
In 2001, the Fort along the Uppelschen Dike was granted national monument status. In 2003, it became the property of Brabants Landschap, which also gave it back its old name "Fort Altena. Since then, the fort has been operated as a brasserie, as a space for events and meetings and as a base for all kinds of activities, from escaperoom to canoe trip. The agreement is that the fort will be preserved as cultural heritage.
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Hiking
Walk from Fort Altena through a varied landscape full of history, with casemates, mills and floodplains full of life. Enjoy the view of the Merwede river and finish with a well-deserved stop at the brasserie. A surprising tour full of stories.
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Bikes
Cycle right through history and nature with the Biesboschlinie Fortentocht. Discover the imposing forts, old fortified towns and locks of the New Dutch Waterline. Along the way, enjoy stories, vistas and a unique piece of defensive art in the green landscape.
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Sailing
Between Fort Altena and Fort Giessen follow the winding Alm past an aqueduct with boat crossings and through ancient riverbeds. Canoe through a landscape full of history: from Roman finds to the defenses of the Dutch Waterline.
Guided tours
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Fort Altena during a tour where the past is brought to life. Walk along with the Waschvrouw, who will tell you authentically about life at the fort, or join a regular tour with an experienced guide who will explain everything about its military function, construction and the special stories that took place here.
During your visit you will discover not only the impressive fort itself, but also the beautiful surrounding landscape that played an important role in the defense of the area. Whether you are curious about history, love hiking or just enjoy special places: Fort Altena surprises you every time.
Learn more
Under the spell of the Cold War
The war that just did not want to become a war, but caused enormous tension and fear among citizens of a Third World War. The period between 1945 and 1991 is also known as the Cold War.
The Biesbosch Line and Fort Altena also contain remnants of this era. Prisca discovers traces of the Cold War and gets a tour from volunteer Arie Schouten at Fort Altena.
We dive deeper into the hidden preparations and stories that remained under the radar for years. Read about the military measures, the remnants still visible in the landscape and how this period shaped the area.
Read story
Experience Fort Altena
Fort Altena is one of the nature gates of Brabant. You will find ample parking, catering (a brasserie) and information about nature, culture and recreational routes. An ideal starting point to discover the nature and culture of the Biesbosch Line! The fort also provides outdoor activities and is available as a venue for events, meetings and weddings.
Practical information
Fort Altena is located just off the A27, and is also easily accessible by public transportation. For opening hours and reservations, please refer to the fort's website.
Address: Toll 8, Werkendam
0183 - 30 13 29
info@fortaltena.nl