This small town on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland in the province of Zeeland is the perfect place to relax between city trips.
Unwind on one of the quiet beaches, walk through the biggest woods in Zeeland, take one of the cultural bicycle routes and discover what this part of the Netherlands has to offer. Renesse also has a number of museums on the history of the island.
The island on which Renesse is situated once consisted of four separate islands, but land reclamation and silt turned them into one. This region has been fighting the water for ages. It lost the battle in the great flood of 1953. You can still see traces of the flood if you tour the island by bicycle or car along the special routes.
If you're interested in finding out more about the great flood of 1953, the Watersnoodmuseum in Ouwekerk is a 20 minute drive from Renesse. In nearby Zierikzee, you can climb the huge Sint Lievensmonster tower and take in a spectacular view from the top. If you're looking for cultural activities closer to Renesse, visit Slot Moermond, which was probably built in the 16th century.
In the village itself, the Jacobuskerk, the oldest part of which dates back to the 14th century, is well worth visiting. Renesse is also surrounded by lovely countryside. You can go on great bicycle tours in the area, for example, to Boswachterij Westerschouwen, an area diverse in woods and hilly dunes. These woods are the biggest in Zeeland and home to a variety of birds and deer.
The countryside around Renesse is perfect for bicycle tours. Hire a few and cycle to the neighbouring towns of Scharendijke or Nieuw-Haamstede. There's also lots to do on the water. In summer you can lie on the beach, go sailing or take a boat tour. You can also hire horses for a less usual excursion.
Renesse is fairly remote and best reached by car. There are no towns or cities nearby and there are no trains on the island. Park your car for free at the Transferium, a huge car park just outside the city centre and take one of the special buses to the beach.
This little village in Zeeland is the perfect place to relax in beautiful nature.
