Discover Woudrichem: a day full of history and adventure
Photographer and storyteller Jeanine Verbraak discovers Woudrichem with her family. They sail with the new foot ferry to Slot Loevestein and dive into the history of the fortified town. With an interactive QR children's walk, they explore streets and stories, ending the day relaxed with an overnight stay in the fortified town.
My day begins at the waterfront of Woudrichem, a compact fortified town full of history, water and charm. Just the kind of place that makes me walk slower and opens my head naturally. Today I cross over with the new foot ferry to Slot Loevestein, take an interactive children's walk with QRfgoed and end the day with an overnight stay in the brand new B&B the KruidenPoort.
Crossing with the new foot ferry Woudrichem
The crossing begins with a small sense of excitement. I step aboard the new foot ferry, a first for me and for many. Ferryman Robbin explains with audible pride that the new electric ferry is designed for everyone: there is room for 12 people, with bicycles, everything feels spacious and uncluttered. Wheelchair users and duo bikes can effortlessly board. This is boating as it is meant to be: relaxed and inclusive. The foot ferry not only connects shores, but also people and opportunities.
As we glide quietly across the water, we strike up further conversation. Robbin talks about his favorite season: spring. Not just because the weather is getting milder, but because people are looking forward to something. Cyclists are on their way to new trails, hikers have time to wander again and families are taking their first trips of the year. "Then something happens again," he says. Thus, the canal becomes more than a connection between two shores.
Hiking at Slot Loevestein
The crossing feels like a transition to another world. The path toward Slot Loevestein winds through a Natura 2000 area, where reeds, water and birds make up the landscape and nature maintains itself. Everything feels raw and alive, yet balanced. Along the way, I am entertained by children happily telling their jokes. They are bouncing with energy, full of anticipation of what awaits them at the castle. I feel that same curiosity, too.
The castle itself breathes history. Slot Loevestein was the prison of statesman Hugo de Groot, who spectacularly escaped in a book chest in 1621. Inside, exhibits bring the past to life and outside, the ramparts invite you to wander around. For children, it is a place full of stories, treasure hunts and little adventures, where history and imagination come together.
Tip: check the Slot Loevestein agenda to see what fun things are coming up!
Discover Woudrichem with the QRfgoed children's walk
Back in Woudrichem, a new chapter of the day begins. We start the QRfgoed-kinderwandeling, a playful way to further explore the town. Along the route hang 9 QR codes, at each point you discover a new piece of history of Woudrichem. On my phone appears Mayor Peer Verhagen, aka Rooie Peer, who talks enthusiastically about the city, old houses and hidden stories.
My 20-month-old daughter stares her eyes out; at the fortified town gate, she is already fascinated by Molen Nooit Gedagt and proudly hobbles through the city gate herself. Moments later, she settles down contentedly in her wagon. While we listen to stories about rivers, the Gevangenpoort, sailing heritage and even Hugo de Groot, appearing for the second time today, she slowly lulls towards an afternoon nap.
Practical information: the length of this route is about 1.5 kilometers, with children this walk takes 45-60 minutes. An overview map of the route can be found on the QRfgoed website.
Stay overnight at B&B de KruidenPoort in Woudrichem
At the end of a day full of discoveries, we find rest at B&B de KruidenPoort. It is one of those places where you immediately notice that attention has been paid to every detail. Owners Arma and Mark have not just put up a B&B here, but a place that is all about connection just like their own story.
Arma represents the "spices" of the B&B, so to speak, and literally brings flavor to the stay with her knowledge of natural foods. The next morning, homemade, organic and regional dishes are served that get the day off to a gentle and nutritious start.
Mark is reflected in the architecture and is the "gateway": the modern, quirky design and the use of CLT wood give the house a warm, natural feel. That it consists of 90 to 95 percent bio-based materials doesn't feel like a statement, but a natural part of the whole. The result is a stylish, accessible B&B with its own entrance and garden, also suitable for wheelchair users.
Everything was provided for our daughter: a crib, books and toys, including a great collection of play horses that she didn't want to part with. We were lucky enough to be one of the first guests and immediately felt welcome. The bathroom is a little wellness moment in itself: a spacious rain shower, soft towels and a floral shower gel whose scent will leave you feeling completely relaxed for a moment. An unexpected touch of luxury in the middle of charming Woudrichem.
Also spend the night at B&B de KruidenPoort? Find more information on the website.
How to get to Woudrichem?
By car you can park for free within walking distance of the fortified town and the foot ferry:
- Janus Baks Bastion at the end of the Hoogstraat
- Parking place Schapendam
Crossing by foot ferry
From the parking lot, follow the signs to the harbor and "Boven 't Gat". The foot ferry operates on a supply and demand basis; tickets can be purchased at each crossing (adults: €1.90, children under 12: €1.00). Want to return and the ferry is still on the other side? Press the little bell at the siding, the ferryman will come and pick you up.
Prefer to travel by public transportation?
Take the train to Gorinchem station, then the bus to Woudrichem (including Sleeuwijk/Wijk en Aalburg). From the bus stop you can walk into the fortified town in 13 minutes. Coming from the direction of Breda? Then take the bus in the direction of Gorinchem. Check 9292.nl for current times.