DAY 1
Visit the Schoenenkwartier
We start the weekend away at the iconic Schoenenkwartier in Waalwijk. Here you'll dive into the world of the shoe! In this modern museum and manufacturing lab, you'll discover how Waalwijk once grew into the heart of the Dutch shoe industry. In the inspiring (and interactive) exhibitions you will discover everything from traditional techniques to innovative designs. Don't forget to take the time to stroll through the makerspace where you will be surprised by a mix of fashion, history and design.
In the Schoenenkwartier you'll also find Waalwijk's Tourist Information Point. Handy if you need some inspiration for the rest of your visit. There is a shopping area where you can buy the nicest souvenirs and for a cup of coffee and some goodies you can sit down in the cozy restaurant.
Discover the Schoenenkwartier
PartyVlaai
All that cultural sniffing will make you hungry! And how convenient: around the corner from the Schoenenkwartier you will find PartyVlaai. This festive bakery is known far and wide for its freshly baked pies, (photo) cakes and award-winning pastries. PartyVlaai even has its own chocolate workshop. Is your mouth already watering?
When you get a snack at PartyVlaai, you really shouldn't skip the Halve-Zoolkoek: this is the delicacy of De Langstraat. The buttercream cake is made in the shape of a shoe sole as a tribute to the region's special shoe industry. And we can tell you, it is delicious!
Curious about our tasting video of the Halve-Zoolkoek? Check out our TikTok or Instagram page
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Boat trip at Wiljo
We leave Waalwijk behind and continue our route to Heusden. In this beautiful fortified town, a beautiful cityscape awaits you at every corner. Time to explore the city and its surroundings in a different way - from the water!
Step aboard at Rondvaart Wiljo and get carried away through the watery landscape of the Bergsche Maas. While you float peacefully over the water, the captain will tell you fun facts about nature, history and the surroundings.
Discover Wiljo Boat Cruises
Stay at Hotel-Restaurant In den Verdwaalde Koogel
It was an exhilarating day, so we are slowly moving toward a place to have a quiet dinner and spend the night. This we will do at Hotel-Restaurant In den Verdwaalde Koogel, an atmospheric gem in the middle of the fortified town that perfectly combines history and hospitality.
You'll find this hotel in a monumental building from 1620, with small, cozy rooms and a warm, Brabant atmosphere. Good food is sure to please you here, too! The restaurant serves a seasonal à-la-carte menu with refined international dishes and a carefully composed wine list.
Is the sun shining during your weekend getaway? Then take a seat on the terrace at the Vismarkt, the perfect place to further absorb the character of the fortified town.
Discover this hotel
DAY 2
Shopping at Berg & Braam
Good morning! After a wonderful night's sleep in den Verdwaalde Koogel, it's time to hit the road again. For this we will stay in Heusden for a while so you can stroll through the streets of the fortified town. You walk to Berg & Braam, this nostalgic candy and toy store will make young and old alike very happy.
As soon as you step into this charming little store, you imagine yourself back in time. Wooden toys, board games and hand puppets fill the shelves while the candy bins full of classics like salmiac, cinnamon sticks and pickles tempt you.
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Afternoon Hoge Heide
Off to Hoge Heide in Vlijmen! Here you are bound to have a playful afternoon. This versatile leisure and gaming destination has made the combination of relaxation and action their expertise. Go bowling on state-of-the-art lanes with deluxe scoring system and cool visuals. Or plunge into an interactive game such as indoor soccer, bumperz, squash and even "shocking soccer."
Feeling hungry or thirsty? No point! At Hoge Heide you will also find a fine catering establishment where you can go for lunch, dinner or just a drink. Inside you can sit comfortably and when the weather is nice you can take a seat on the sunny terrace.
Discover the Hoge Heide
Evening at the Theatre de Leest
We're back in Waalwijk, because what could be better than an evening of theater at De Leest? The cultural beating heart of De Langstraat. With some 220 theater performances per year, over 250 films and some 100,000 visitors annually, it is a versatile place where drama, cabaret, dance, music and film come together. Pick a great show and enjoy!
Would you like a bite to eat beforehand? Then book a table at Restaurant Este. This atmospheric venue with sophisticated menu offers a special two-course theater menu. So you can first dine deliciously and then walk at your leisure towards the theater.
Discover Theater De Leest
Stay at GuestHouse hotel
The last night has arrived. A fifteen-minute drive from Waalwijk, you'll find the GuestHouse Hotel in Kaatsheuvel. This modern and homely hotel has 69 attractive rooms including a number of unique family rooms. Extra fun: on top of the hotel you will find a roof garden where you can have fun with mini golf, air hockey and table tennis. Enjoying the view with a drink in your hand is also among the options.
For your meal, visit the GuestHouse Foodbar where you can enjoy an affordable and sustainable dinner. In the morning, an extensive breakfast is also served here. Handy for when you don't want to leave the house early.
Tip: in the vicinity of the GuestHouse hotel you are just steps away from Loonse and Drunense Dunes. Ideal for one last walk to end this weekend. The Efteling is also part of your backyard here, of course. Should you still have time left, you can always add a day at the park.
Discover GuestHouse Hotel
I hope you enjoy your weekend away in De Langstraat immensely. Would you rather go for just one night? Then read our article about 24 hours in De Langstraat.
Have you taken some great photos along the way that you'd like to share on socials? Use #visitdelangstraat or tag us, we always love to see how you enjoyed yourself in De Langstraat!
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What's on offer during your visit?
