Amsterdam • Rotterdam • Delft • Arnhem • Valkenburg

Situated in Western Europe, the Netherlands (popularly known as Holland) has borders with Belgium to the south and Germany to the east. To the north and west is the North Sea.  Approximately one-sixth of the Netherlands total area is covered with water, and since the completion of the Delta Works, the coastline is 500 miles (800 km) in length.  The Netherlands has a population of over 16 million. The capital, Amsterdam, is also the country's second largest port after Rotterdam.

There is so much more to the Netherlands than windmills, clogs and tulips.  Towns and cities filled with ornately gabled terraces flanking peaceful canals, pristine sandy beaches and picturesque villages, it is no wonder that this unique landscape provided such inspiration to the like of Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt.

Just a few suggestions . . .

Amsterdam.
The great appeal of Amsterdam is its diversity.  Not only is it a great centre of art and historic sights, with a charming, relaxed atmosphere, but is also a cultural hot spot.  With its enchanting canals, gabled 17th century houses, art museums, diamond houses and a myriad of bars, restaurants and shops, Amsterdam remains one of the most interesting and exciting of all European capitals to visit.

Anne Frank Museum  Rijksmuseum  Diamond Factory Tour   Canal Cruises 

Arnhem.
Arnhem, the capital of the province of Gelderland, was declared the centre of the regional government back in 1544 by Charles V.  In September 1944, the town suffered serious damage in the Battle of Arnhem, one of the most notorious battles of World War II.  All the townspeople were forced to abandon their homes and were not able to return until 1945, when the peace treaty was signed.  Arnhem rose again from the ashes and is now sprucing itself up rapidly.  The monuments that have been restored include the Eusebiuskerk from 1560, which was almost totally destroyed during the war.  The tower, at 93 m (305 ft), is now taller than it ever was and has a glass lift which affords visitors a stunning view of the Rhine valley.  The Duivelshuis, built in 1545 by Maarten van Rossum, is an outstanding example of Dutch Renaissance architecture.  Arnhem is also known for its monumental parks, such as the Sonsbeek, a romantic landscape park, and Zypendaal.  In Bronbeek, a home for ex-servicemen, there is an exhibition dedicated to the former Dutch Indies.  In Oosterbeek, the Airborne Museum gives an account of the Battle of Arnhem.

Airborne Museum

Valkenburg and its Christmas Market.
The 'Fluweelengrot' (Velvet Cave) yearly makes up the set for a unique event, 'the Christmas Market Fluweelengrot'. Visitors from all over the world and of all ages are welcome! The 'Fluweelengrot' accommodates numerous mysteries and a treasure of impressive mural carvings, inscriptions, and exceptional sculptures in the soft marlstone walls, as well as a romantic refuge chapel dating back to the French occupation period.  In World War II, during the occupation of the Germans, the cave serves as a shelter for Jewish people, locals, and American troops.  All of these occurrences leave their marks in the cave.  Marks that nowadays can still be experienced on the spot... Follow the oil lamp of the guide, and a lost bat, through the passages and enjoy the legends, anecdotes, deep darkness and serene silence.  In combination with the Castle Ruins a visit to the 'Fluweelengrot' (Velvet Cave) is a unique experience you'll never forget... A mysterious journey back in time...
The atmosphere of the cave will bring back the ancient and almost forgotten legends and memories of the city of Valkenburg.  A walking tour of the market will lead you through a romantically lit up Christmas Cave with amongst other things impressive mural carvings and sculptures... Twinkling lights and magic illumination that reflect the soft marlstone walls break through the rustic darkness of the cave.  Gentle Christmas music breaks through the (normally) every day serene silence.  A tour of capricious passages will lead you past caverns, festively decorated, stalls with various quality items for sale, and a few stalls that demonstrate old Dutch trade & handicraft.  Don't forget to visit the enchanting catering garden in the 'heart' of the cave, to have a bite to eat and experience the famous Dutch Christmas drink 'Glühwein' (sparkling hot wine)...