Summer in the Biesbosch Line
Discover the best activities, routes, and day trips
Tips for making the most of summer in the region
Looking for fun summer activities along the Biesbosch Line? Here you’ll find plenty of inspiration for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a summer vacation in North Brabant. Cruise through the creeks of the Biesbosch, discover historic fortified towns like Woudrichem, cycle through the polders on our bike routes, or visit one of the forts in the region. Whether you’re here for nature, culture, or relaxation by the water, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.
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Summer City Walk
Summer City Walk
Nothing beats a lovely walk on a beautiful summer day. Stroll past the most remarkable sites and monuments in the fortified town of Woudrichem. Or book a guided tour with one of our city guides.
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Sailing
Sailing
Experience the Biesbosch Line from the water! Glide through narrow creeks in the Biesbosch, or paddle through the polders: you’ll find a surprisingly diverse range of canoeing and boating routes here.
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Fort Giessen
Fort Giessen
Fort Giessen is open to visitors once a month during the summer months. There are various activities for all ages. Visit the educational park about World War I, search for coins with a metal detector, or take a guided tour.
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"Tasty Region" Cycling Route
"Tasty Region" Cycling Route
Cycle through Burgundian Altena! This 32-km cycling route takes you past local products from mills, estates, and farm shops. Enjoy blooming field edges and the polder landscape. A route full of flavor!
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Pompveld Education Park
Pompveld Education Park
Climb over the rocks, pump the water, test your balance on a log, and build the most beautiful huts out of branches. And of course, bring your dip net to discover all the creatures living in the water.
Looking to cool off?
On hot summer days, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip. Along the Biesbosch Line, you can enjoy both swimming pools and natural bodies of water. Swimming pools in the region include:
- Optisport Aqua Altena in Andel
- The Kurenpolder in Hank
- Bijtelskil in Sleeuwijk
- Zwembad Werkina in Werkendam
Officially designated swimming spots in natural waters
- Veen Beach. Please note! Blue-green algae has currently been detected at Veen Beach. A warning is in effect advising against entering the water here.
- De Hooge Waard, camping beach Andel
- Bathing beach, Andel
- Bathing beach Wijksche Waard, Wijk en Aalburg
- The Mosterdpot, city harbor Woudrichem
- Kurenpolder, swimming lake Hank
- Beach on the Afgedamde Maas, Andel
- Bathing beach on the Afgedamde Maas, Rijswijk
- Wijkse Bol, Wijk en Aalburg
Each year, the Province of North Brabant designates swimming locations in natural waters in accordance with the Hygiene and Safety Act for Bathing Facilities and Swimming Areas. The designated safe locations can be identified by the provincial swimming water information signs. Check the water quality before you take a dip at www.zwemwater.nl.
Food and drink
On warm summer days, there’s nothing better than settling down on a patio. Along the Biesbosch Line, you’ll find plenty of cozy spots for lunch, drinks, or a leisurely dinner. Treat yourself to an ice cream, sample local specialties, or experience the hospitality of the region’s many restaurants, cafés, and farm shops. That’s how your summer day in the Biesboschlinie will taste even better.
Restaurants
Overnight stay
Are you staying overnight after a day of enjoyment in the Biesboschlinie? In our hospitable overnight locations you are welcome. The choice is vast. Sleep in a powder cellar, a hikers' hut or in a luxury B&B. Dream away in a real fortified town or camp at the farmer's. Get a good rest before another day full of activity in Woudrichem, municipality of Altena or the New Dutch Waterline.
Sleep well and see you tomorrow!
All overnight locations
Summer Tips
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24 Hours as a Tourist in Your Own Region
While our “Tourist in Your Own Region” campaign is in full swing, the “24 Hours in the Biesbosch Line” Instameet will take place during the last week of May. Seven women from all corners of the Netherlands will come to discover what the Biesbosch Line has to offer.
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Outings on the Water
Experience the Biesbosch Line the way it’s best enjoyed: from the water. Whether you choose a relaxing boat tour or set out on your own in a canoe or on a stand-up paddleboard, we’ll recommend the best water-based outings.
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A canoe trip through the awakening Biesbosch
Photographer and storyteller Jeanine Verbraak steps into a canoe early in the morning for a trip through the Biesbosch. Amid fog, mirror-smooth water, and birds waking up, she explores this beautiful nature reserve together with guides Sjaak and Paul.
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4x the most beautiful routes in the summer
Summer is the time to discover the Biesboschlinie. Long days, plenty of sunshine and a landscape bursting with life make this season ideal for getting out and about. We tip you off to the best routes in summer.
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The Almpad, walking along the water, Fort Giessen and meadows
The Almpad, between Giessen and Uitwijk, was enthusiastically conceived this spring by our volunteer Lianne. The walk takes you through the Almbos, along Fort Giessen, the small river Alm and through the outskirts of Giessen and Uitwijk.
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The Oostwaardpad, walking across farmland
The Oostwaardpad, on the edge of De Biesbosch National Park, is a walk through farmland that our volunteer Lianne discovered. It’s the kind of hiking trail you want to take everyone to at least once because you’re so enthusiastic about it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in the Biesbosch
What can you do in the Biesbosch in the summer?
In the summer, there’s plenty to do in De Biesbosch National Park. You can boat through the creeks, go canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, or biking. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, such as beavers and various bird species. Thanks to its combination of nature, water, and culture, the Biesbosch is a popular destination for a day trip or a summer vacation.
Where can you go boating in De Biesbosch National Park?
You can rent a rowboat, canoe, or kayak at various locations to explore the Biesbosch from the water. The narrow creeks and tranquil waterways, in particular, make boating in the Biesbosch a special experience. There are various boating routes available for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Can you swim in the Biesbosch?
There is currently a negative swimming advisory in effect for swimming in the Biesbosch. The Southeast Brabant Environmental Agency has issued this advisory because there are no designated swimming zones. Swimmers and small boats share the same space, which can lead to dangerous situations. Swimming is permitted, but at your own risk.
What are the most beautiful hiking trails in the Biesbosch?
De Biesbosch offers hiking trails through water-rich nature reserves, past reed beds, willow forests, and areas teeming with birds. Both short walks and longer routes are available. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views and have the chance to spot unique wildlife.
What are the most beautiful cycling routes in the Biesbosch?
De Biesbosch and the surrounding region offer excellent cycling opportunities. There are various cycling routes that take you past nature reserves, historic fortified towns such as Woudrichem, forts, and cozy outdoor cafes. Thanks to the extensive network of cycling junctions, you can easily plan your own route or choose an existing one.
Can you stay overnight in the Biesbosch?
Yes, in the Biesbosch you’ll find a variety of accommodations, such as campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, vacation homes, and a hotel. Staying overnight in the Biesbosch is an ideal way to combine multiple activities and enjoy nature to the fullest.