De Loonse en Drunense Duinen

Are you planning to visit Efteling with your family or friends and considering staying overnight there—or in the surrounding area? Great idea! The region around the theme park offers plenty of options for a full weekend getaway or a (mini) vacation. The adventure doesn’t end at the park’s exit. We’ve put together a list of the 14 best activities near Efteling for you. By Linda Savelkouls

It’s a warm summer evening as I walk onto the lawn at the Lido in Waalwijk. In the distance, I see the Roza Ballooning trailer. Marianne and Ad Roza are already hard at work with the preparations. A large black bag is taken out of the trailer, followed by something I immediately recognize as the wicker basket of a hot-air balloon. By Laura van der Wal 

On Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, 2026, it’s Open Monument Day again, and all kinds of historic buildings will open their doors to visitors. Churches, town halls, castles, and special guided tours: this weekend, you can explore the region’s rich history for free. This year’s national theme is “Heritage & Architecture: Built to Last.” Wondering where to go? Here are the highlights of Open Monument Day 2026 in the municipalities of Geertruidenberg, Waalwijk, Loon op Zand , and Heusden.By Laura van der Wal

Looking for adventure, but don’t feel like traveling for hours? Good news: you don’t have to leave De Langstraat at all to have a special experience. Right close to home, you’ll find places and activities that take you away from your daily routine for a while. If you look at them with an adventurous eye, a walk, a bike ride, or an early morning outing can suddenly turn into an experience you won’t soon forget. Here are 10 tips for micro-adventures in De Langstraat! By Laura van der Wal

Located right on the Maas River, with a view of Heusden Fortress: Camperplaats Heusden is a popular destination for motorhome travelers. I stopped by to visit the owner, Rein, and discovered what makes this unique spot so special. By Laura van der Wal 

Traveling on your own? I love it! You set your own pace, visit the places that interest you, and have complete freedom to change course on a whim. And as it happens, De Langstraat is the ideal region for a successful solo trip in North Brabant. Here you’ll find peace, culture, and nature all just a stone’s throw away from each other. By Laura van der Wal

De Langstraat MATCH! is a fast-paced, fun observation game for all ages. Are you familiar with Dobble or Alike!? Then you’ll get the idea right away. But our MATCH! is just a little bit different. This game was specially developed with original illustrations and a recognizable theme: De Langstraat.Each card features symbols related to the region: from crafts and nature to famous landmarks and typical details. The goal is simple: find the one symbol that two cards have in common as quickly as possible. Sound easy? Just wait until the cards are laid out on the table. De Langstraat MATCH! is compact, accessible, and ideal for playing together—at home, at school, or as a gift with a local story. Through play, you’ll discover what makes De Langstraat so special. And before you know it, you’ll be ready for another round.

Looking to cool off in Brabant on hot summer days? Then the Langstraat is the perfect destination. Here in our green region between Tilburg, Breda, and ’s-Hertogenbosch, you’ll find vast nature reserves, beautiful forests, water, and simply lots of greenery. Go for a nice bike ride along the water, take a dip in a natural lake, or cool off among the trees of the fairy-tale forest during a day Efteling. Wondering where to go? I’ll give you the lowdown on all the spots in De Langstraat to escape the heat. By Laura van der Wal