Three days in Groningen: tranquillity, nature and culture

A long weekend in Groningen feels like a little voyage of discovery into a world of tranquillity, nature and refined flavours. Here you will discover picturesque villages, vast landscapes and a rich cultural tradition. You don't have to travel far to get away from it all. Join us on a three-day mini-vacation in the province where space and silence still exist.

Your adventure begins in the picturesque mound village of Ezinge, a place where history and nature come together harmoniously. The high mound on which the village is built offers beautiful views over the surrounding Groningen landscape. Your first stop is Museum Wierdenland, where you will learn more about the rich history of the mound landscape and the archaeological discoveries made here. A perfect place to start your day.

After your museum visit, stroll through picturesque Ezinge, through charming streets and past authentic Groningen farmhouses. A stop at Café de Brug is highly recommended. This cosy café offers not only a warm welcome, but also delicious homemade delicacies. Enjoy a cup of coffee with fresh pastries or a hearty lunch before continuing your journey.

A short distance away is the village of Feerwerd, where you can visit the Jacobuskerk or the Joeswert windmill. These beautiful pieces of heritage, surrounded by greenery, breathe history and offer a moment of tranquillity.

From Feerwerd, you drive on to Garnwerd, a charming village on the Reitdiep. A unique atmosphere awaits you here: cosy and authentic. Stroll through the village and discover the narrowest car-accessible street in the Netherlands, a fun and photogenic spot. For a culinary experience, visit Garnwerd aan Zee, where you can enjoy a drink and a bite by the water. Or choose Café Bij Hammingh, an iconic café-restaurant with a rich history, where you can dine while overlooking the rippling waters of the Reitdiep.

When evening falls, you can take another romantic walk along the winding dykes in the Reitdiep area. The tranquillity and sounds of nature make for an unforgettable experience. For a good night's sleep, you can stay in the atmospheric Oude Pastorie in Garnwerd or one of the accommodations at Marenland Recreatie in Winsum, where you will be surrounded by silence and the chirping of birds.

The second day starts in Winsum, which was named the most beautiful village in the Netherlands in 2020. Here you will stroll through streets lined with charming historical buildings. A visit to the iconic Bow Bridge, one of Winsum's most famous sights, is not to be missed. This photogenic bridge offers stunning views over the Winsumerdiep. To find out more about the history of Winsum, you can go on your own with the podwalk. Winsum is also known for its cosy delicatessens and eateries. Stroll through the village and discover unique local products in the specialty shops. For a tasty breakfast or lunch, visit the Gouden Karper, an atmospheric place with a varied menu. At Eetcafé J& A, sample the warm atmosphere and delicious dishes, ideal for a relaxing break. At Marenland Recreatie, you can hire a canoe or boat to explore Winsum from the water. Sail on the peaceful water and enjoy the view of the green banks and authentic farms.

From Winsum, follow the flow of the water towards Onderdendam, a picturesque village where bridges, canals and windmills define the streetscape. Visit the Reformed Church, a beautiful piece of heritage that graces the village. For a unique experience, hire a whisper boat and explore the village from the water. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you glide past the old buildings and the charming Hunsingo mill.

Nature lovers can take a walk in the Onderdendamsterbos, a peaceful area where you can completely unwind. End the day with dinner at De Molenaar, a restaurant located in an old mill. Here you will enjoy refined dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. For the night, there are excellent options such as B&B Hoogholtje, an atmospheric spot just outside the village, or a unique overnight stay in the historic Windmill Hunsingo.

The third and final day of your trip takes you to Bedum, a village famous for its leaning tower of Walfridus. This tower is even more leaning than the tower of Pisa and is a special sight not to be missed. After admiring this unique structure, you can stroll through the cosy centre of Bedum. Here you will find various shops and restaurants where you can start the day with a delicious breakfast or lunch.

At Grand Café Koning & De Caenerij you will enjoy fresh dishes in modern and hospitable surroundings. Fancy something sweet or savoury? Walk in at Bakkerij Hoekstra, where the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries will meet you.

For a touch of nature, take a walk along Boterdiep, through the deer park, or the peaceful Bedumer forest. A visit to the pluktuin Lageweg is highly recommended, especially in the summer months. Here you can pick your own flowers and enjoy the rural atmosphere.

Want to extend your trip a little? Bedum is a stone's throw from the city of Groningen. You can easily reach the city via a scenic cycling route or by train, which takes you to the bustling city centre in just 15 minutes.