Today Heusden is not only a place of history, but also of relaxation. The Bergsche Maas offers plenty of opportunities for water sports, fishing and boating. In Heusden Vesting you will find two spacious marinas as well as an attractive inner harbor, ideal for a stopover or a lovely day on the water.
To the south lies a completely different landscape: one of the largest areas of drifting sand in Western Europe, De Loonse en Drunense Duinen. The idyllic hamlet of Giersbergen is one of the gateways to this special nature reserve.
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Giersbergen: natural gateway to the dunes
This hamlet, consisting of several farms, barns, stables and sheep pens, forms the gateway to National Park De Loonse en Drunense Duinen. Parking is available in the ample parking lots provided at Herberg De Drie Linden. From here several routes can be taken for hikers, cyclists and horse riders. For the MTB enthusiast there are two challenging routes in this area.
Untamed lands, swamps and moors: this is what Giersbergen and its surroundings looked like some 750 years ago. The Cistercian abbey Ter Kameren was granted a piece of land here in 1244 by Duke Henry II of Brabant. Lay brothers established in Giersbergen the monastery farm of the abbey, the so-called uithof. From here they began to cultivate the wasteland. In the course of time, the uithof Giersbergen grew into a hamlet.
Learn all about the ancient fortified town
Our guides are eager to take you and your party along the sights in fortified town Heusden. They will tell you about the culture, nature and history of the town. You can choose the highlights, a complete city tour or themed walks, for example. What will you choose?
The little boy beside the grave
The audio play "The little boy next to the grave" tells a story of World War II in Heusden. The audio clip can be listened to at the Tourist Information Point in Heusden and online via the button below.
Library Heusden developed the project in cooperation with many enthusiastic volunteers.
Tips and blogs about Heusden and surroundings
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Stadshotel Geertruidenberg: stay overnight in the historic heart of the fortified city
January 14, 2026
'Where people and heritage flourish' is the slogan of Stadshotel Geertruidenberg. A year ago, Dieuwke and her husband Willem made it possible to spend a special night in the old town hall of the fortified city. Curious about the stories behind this venture, I visited them. By Laura van der Wal
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Museum De Roos: a journey through time in the heart of Geertruidenberg
December 10, 2025
In a stately, historic building on the Markt in Geertruidenberg, you will find Museum De Roos. For a fascinating dive into the city's eventful history, this is the place to be. Today I visit Ron, the chairman of the museum. By Laura van der Wal
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Photo walk through Heusden and surroundings
December 09, 2025
Regularly my attention was drawn to the account Verrassend Brabant on Instagram and Facebook. Beautiful pictures from Heusden and other parts of De Langstraat filled our timeline. After a number of beautiful pictures were published again, I decided to send a message. By Laura van der Wal
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A night out in the heart of North Brabant
November 26, 2025
Always fun, a night away in your own country. And with all its greenery and cozy towns, De Langstraat is perfect for a little get-away near the Efteling. In this blog I will take you on a 24 hour journey through the region using a fun and easy itinerary. Ready to go exploring? Let's go!By Laura van der Wal
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A weekend away near the Efteling
November 25, 2025
In need of a weekend getaway? Come to De Langstraat! Right in the heart of North Brabant and in close proximity to the Efteling, you'll find plenty to fill your weekend getaway with plenty to do. In this blog I take you on a complete and easy to follow itinerary along special locations and atmospheric cities. I would like to show you all there is to do in De Langstraat. The region will surprise you at every turn. By Laura van der Wal
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Back into the past of De Langstraat
November 11, 2025
Walking or biking through De Langstraat, you will discover an area where centuries-old stories are still palpable. What once began as a narrow strip of land is today characterized by iconic villages, historic crafts and a special blend of nature and culture. Once tanners and shoemakers determined the daily rhythm here, but now the region has grown into a lively area where history, nature and hospitality meet. By Evie Pladdet
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House of Waalwijk
November 04, 2025
As soon as I walk onto the Raadhuisplein in Waalwijk, the characteristic stepped gable of Huis van Waalwijk looms before me. The national monument is a real eye-catcher for anyone visiting Waalwijk, and I am sure I am not the only one who has been curious for a long time about what can be found behind the doors of this special building. By Laura van der Wal
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14 Fun activities near the Efteling
July 23, 2025
Are you planning to go to the Efteling with your family or friends and considering staying overnight there - or in the surrounding area? Good idea! After all, the region around the amusement park offers plenty of opportunities for a complete weekend getaway or a (mini)vacation. The adventure doesn't stop at the exit of the park. We have collected the 14 best activities near the Efteling for you. By Linda Savelkouls
Accessibility & parking
Come to the municipality by bicycle, public transport or car. Includes tips for parking in fortified town Heusden and surrounding areas.
Accessibility & parking
Tourist Information Point (TIP) Heusden
For tips, routes and more inspiration: drop in at TIP Heusden. Your visit starts there!
