7 reasons why you should visit the fortified town of Brielle
The charming fortified town of Brielle is packed with stories, monuments, and charming streets. This historic town on Voorne-Putten is one of South Holland's best-kept secrets. Did you know that Brielle boasts no fewer than 400 monuments? With its rich history, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. We'll share 7 great reasons to discover the fortified town of Brielle for yourself.
1. A city that breathes history
Brielle is located in the province of South Holland, on the island of Voorne-Putten, between Rotterdam and the North Sea coast. Why is Brielle famous? Because on April 1, 1572, the Sea Beggars liberated the city from the Spanish. This made Brielle the first city to be liberated during the Eighty Years' War, making it a significant place in Dutch history.
The April 1st celebration
Every year during the April Fool's Day celebrations, Brielle transforms into a grand historical spectacle. More than 15,000 visitors witness the Sea Beggars, dressed in period costumes, reclaim the city through battles and parades through the fortress: from approaching the city gates to the moment the keys are symbolically handed over. For a single day, the city transforms into a living history book, complete with market stalls, traditional crafts, and the lively bustle of the squares.
2. Unique ramparts and 400 monuments
Within the old city walls, you'll wander through an open-air museum. Brielle boasts over 400 national monuments, from old churches and city gates to mansions with ornate facades. The centuries-old ramparts are still largely intact. A historic city walk or a photogenic stroll with views over the canals is a must.
Step into the horse-drawn tram
Want to discover Brielle in a unique way? Then take a ride on the nostalgic horse-drawn tram! During the summer season, this cheerful tram, with jingling bells and chattering hooves, cruises through the streets of the fortified town.
During the tour, the guide will tell you all about the monumental buildings, their rich history, and the stories that unfold behind the facades. It's the way to experience Brielle as it used to be, in peace and quiet, with an eye for detail. The horse-drawn tram departs from the town center and follows a fixed route through the fortress.
3. Cozy city center full of history, boutiques and atmospheric squares
In Brielle's charming town center, you'll find authentic shops, charming boutiques, and charming cafés. Stroll through cobbled streets, relax on a terrace at Turfkade, or enjoy a fresh cappuccino overlooking the water. In the heart of the fortified town, you'll find charming boutiques and cafés as well as unique places with a story to tell.
The Asylum Square
Tucked away in the fortress, you'll find the charming Asylplein, a historic spot you could easily miss. And that would be a shame. This charming square was once the center of the old sailors' asylum: the Asyl for Old and Infirm Seamen, a retirement home founded in 1872 for elderly sailors who spent their final years in Brielle. Since 1947, it has also been possible for non-sailors to register for housing. The old facades, small garden, and tranquil atmosphere make it one of the most charming spots in the city.
The square boasts several monuments, including the Johan Been Bench, featuring a plaque dedicated to Johan Been, designed by Brielle artist ML Middelhoek. The artwork, benches, and glimpses of historical details make the square perfect for photography enthusiasts.
4. Culture & museums: dive into the past
Brielle may be small, but it's packed with culture and history. In this fortified town, you'll find a piece of history on almost every street corner. Several museums and historic buildings immerse you in Brielle's history.
Historical Museum Den Briel
The Historical Museum Den Briel is housed in the former town hall. Here you can learn all about the Sea Beggars, the Reformation, and daily life in the 16th and 17th centuries. Experience the events surrounding the capture of Brielle on April 1, 1572, and discover how the city grew into a key stronghold during the Eighty Years' War.
For children, there are interactive exhibits and scavenger hunts. A fun, educational outing with the family.
The Gunpowder House
Hidden among the greenery on the edge of the fortress lies the Kruithuis (Kruithuis). This historic building, dating from 1650, was once used to store gunpowder. Today, it hosts small-scale exhibitions about Brielle, war, and defense strategies. The location itself is a sight to behold: thick-walled, robust, and strategically located within the fortifications.
Pilgrimage church
Just outside Brielle's fortress walls lies a special place that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year: the Pilgrimage Church of the Holy Martyrs of Gorcum. The church was built in memory of 19 Catholic clergymen who were martyred in Brielle in 1572 for their faith. This was one of the most moving events in Dutch religious history.
Inside, you'll find relics, stained-glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere. Every July, visitors from all over the Netherlands gather here for the National Pilgrimage. The Pilgrimage Church is open to the public daily during the pilgrimage season (June through August).
St. Catherine's Church
Not to be missed in Brielle is the imposing St. Catharine's Church, also known as Brielle Cathedral. This 15th-century Gothic church played a key role during the Reformation and remains an icon of the city. Did you know that William of Orange used to visit here? Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the fortress and the surrounding polders.
Podwalk or audio tour
Prefer to experience culture on foot? Then download a podwalk or audio tour of Brielle. Through your smartphone, you'll listen to stories from past residents, learn facts about buildings you pass, and hear anecdotes about the beggars, ministers, and soldiers who once walked here. A perfect way to explore the city interactively.
Download the podwalk here: Brielle - The Story of the Netherlands from NTR.
5. Beautiful cycling and walking routes
Brielle is surrounded by kilometers of trails filled with panoramic views, bird songs, and stories from the past. Step on your bike or lace up your hiking boots, because the area surrounding this fortified town is made for exploring. From the peaceful polder paths of Voorne-Putten to the dune forests by the sea near Rockanje.
Cycling along water, mills and forts
Hop on your bike and follow one of the many cycling routes through South Holland. Discover the vast polders of Voorne-Putten, where the world is flat and wide. Cycle along quiet dikes, passing picturesque farms, wooden bridges, and cows grazing in the morning sun. Along the way, you can see the outline of the old fortified town of Brielle looming, with its ramparts and turrets.
Prefer to cycle along the water of Lake Brielse? Then you'll cycle right along the shore, with views of sailboats, reeds, and grazing storks. Stop at one of the small beaches or harbors and enjoy a coffee overlooking the water.
Walking in nature: from ramparts to bird sanctuary
There's also plenty to explore on foot. Take a walk along the ramparts of Brielle or venture into nature towards the Voorne Dunes. These dunes are one of the oldest dune areas in the Netherlands. Here you'll walk among sand drifts, open grasslands, and small dune lakes. In spring, the fields are full of flowers and you can hear the birds singing.
For families, a visit to the De Bernisse nature reserve or the De Putten reed beds near Oostvoorne is highly recommended. The area offers well-maintained trails, birdwatching spots, and picnic areas.
Tip: explore the area with children
Many hiking and cycling routes around Brielle are child-friendly. Think short loops through the woods, trails with playgrounds, or spots where you can stop for ice cream along the way. Combine an active morning with an afternoon at the beach in Oostvoorne or Brielse Meer. You can make a whole day of it.
6. Water fun and beaches
You don't have to go all the way to Scheveningen or Zandvoort for beach fun. Around the fortified town, there are a surprising number of places to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports. From the tranquil Brielse Meer lake to the expansive beaches of Rockanje and Oostvoorne, the coast is never far away.
Brielse Lake
Just five minutes from Brielle's town center lies Brielse Meer, the perfect spot for a day on or by the water. This long recreational lake has several beaches where you can safely swim, sail, paddleboard, or picnic. There are grassy areas, sandy stretches, and even a few beach bars and snack bars.
In summer, it's a lively spot where locals and tourists alike gather. Looking for a beach in Brielle? You've come to the right place.
Beach of Oostvoorne
A little further on, towards the Maasvlakte, you'll find Oostvoorne beach. This unique beach is situated by a green lagoon, away from the direct waves of the North Sea. This makes it ideal for children and nature lovers.
You can enjoy swimming here, walking along the Voorne Dunes, or enjoying lunch at a seaside restaurant. There are also birdwatching spots and hiking trails through the dune landscape nearby. So bring your binoculars and hiking boots!
Beach of Rockanje
Fancy a day at the beach on the North Sea coast? From Brielle, you can reach Rockanje beach in just 15 minutes by car. This wide, expansive sandy beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and even surfing. There are several beach access points, beach clubs like Havana Beachclub, and ample parking. In summer, the area buzzes with activity, from beach volleyball to sunset drinks.
7. Spend the night in a historic setting
Want to experience Brielle for more than just a day? We understand. Bastion Hotel Brielle Europoort offers the perfect base for a relaxing stay. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from the historic center. So, after a fresh cup of coffee in the morning, you can stroll straight into the fortress.
Facilities
After a day of hiking, cycling, or soaking up the culture, relax on a comfortable bed in a room with air conditioning, a smart TV, and a modern bathroom. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or dinner in the hotel restaurant, or stroll to the charming city center in just a few minutes for a bite to eat or a drink.
Accessibility and parking
Coming by car? At Bastion Hotel Brielle, you can park your car for free right outside. Ideal for a weekend getaway in South Holland, or if you're just passing through. The hotel is located near the Europoort and Maasvlakte, making cities like Rotterdam, Spijkenisse, and Hellevoetsluis easily accessible.
Click here for more information about Bastion Hotel Brielle Europoort.
