Bourtange
A visit to Bourtange is a unique experience thanks to its historic fortress, completely rebuilt in 18th-century style. Bourtange is 37 car minutes from the campground. The beautiful star-shaped fortress offers a glimpse of life in the past, with narrow streets, museums, cannons and authentic buildings. Bourtange combines history, culture and nature in a charming setting, ideal for a day out for young and old.
Historie
Bourtange is a historic fortified village built in 1580 by William of Orange to maintain control of the road between Germany and Groningen during the Eighty Years' War. The star-shaped fortress played an important role in defending the region and withstood several sieges, including that of the bishop of Münster in 1672. After its dissolution as a fortress in 1851, Bourtange became an agricultural village. In the 1960s, it was completely restored to its 18th-century state and is now a tourist attraction and living museum.
Tourism activities
A visit to Vesting Bourtange is a must because of its unique historical atmosphere and beautiful star-shaped fortress. You can stroll through narrow streets, enjoy authentic buildings and historical sights such as the moats, gates and cannons. The living museum brings history to life, with events and demonstrations that take you back to the time of the Eighty Years' War. In addition, Bourtange offers picturesque views and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for an exciting and relaxing day out. Address: W. Lodewijkstraat 33
Candle making Victoria The Candle making shop in Bourtange is famous. Here candles are still made in the traditional way. Just as it happened centuries ago. There are also workshops where you can teach yourself how to make candles.
Address: Vestingstraat 1
Battle of Bourtange In the summer (first weekend of June) various activities are organized. Including the now famous historical re-enactments. This is a historical reenactment of the Battle of Bourtange. With soldiers in traditional clothing and re-enacted battles. You travel back to the past. For example, the Eighty Years' War with the battle of Heiligerlee in 1568. Or the year 1814. Napoleon's troops have captured the fortress. The Dutch army tries to conquer it. This is done with the help of armies from Belgium, Germany and England. By the way, the Battle of Bourtange never really took place. But because of its unique location, it is lifelike. It is the largest staging of a battle in the Netherlands.
Bicycle route
Fietsknooppunt Bourtange, 44.7 km
Starting point: Inundatieweg, Bourtange
95, 02, 68, 02, 11, 80, 26, 47, 98, 82, 21, 48, 15, 01, 93, 69, 76, 51, 67, 13, 58, 57, 56, 26, 53, 54, 55, 95
Walk around in Bourtange
Walk around Bourtange: Start and End: Willem Lodewijkstraat 33, Bourtange, 7,4 km
Walking junctions: 37, 36, 38, 30, 34, 33, 40, 37
Shop and markets
De commanderie, Adres: Marktplein 4 De Commanderie in Bourtange biedt een unieke kans om de rijke geschiedenis van de vestingstad te beleven. Gelegen in een prachtig gerestaureerd pand, combineert het een sfeervol restaurant met lokale culinaire hoogstandjes en een historisch museum. Je kunt genieten van authentieke smaken terwijl je wordt omringd door de charme van de 18e-eeuwse architectuur en het fascinerende verhaal van Bourtange. Een perfecte mix van cultuur, historie en gastronomie!
BourtanChez, Adres: Marktplein 11 Paula is al heel lang liefhebber van brocante en vintage woonaccessoires. Door vrienden en buren wordt zij vaak geroemd om haar gezellige en sfeervolle inrichting van de privéwoning. Na jaren van verzamelen werd het begin 2024 tijd om een eigen winkeltje te starten. Waar mooier dan in het pittoreske vesting- en museumstadje Bourtange. Kom gerust eens kijken in haar gezellige winkel en bewonder gelijk de vesting van Bourtange
't lutje Winkeltje, Bisschopsweg 4 't Lutje Winkeltje in Bourtange is een betoverend klein winkeltje waar je een stap terug in de tijd zet. Het biedt een unieke mix van nostalgische producten, lokale lekkernijen, handgemaakte cadeaus en ambachtelijke souvenirs. De charmante, authentieke sfeer maakt het een perfecte plek om bijzondere vondsten te doen die je nergens anders tegenkomt. Gelegen in de historische vestingstad, is een bezoek aan 't Lutje Winkeltje niet alleen een shoppingervaring, maar ook een kans om de charme van het oude Bourtange te proeven en mee naar huis te nemen.
Markt in Vlagtwedde: Vrijdag van 13.00 - 18.00, Locatie: Ekkelkamp
Dining out or takeout
'T Oal Kroegie, Address: Market Square 8 Culinary Specialties: The café is known for regional dishes such as mustard soup prepared with traditional Groningen mustard and the homemade satay of hare. In addition, the Bourtanger beer, brewed with water from the Bourtanger marsh, is a must for beer lovers. Hospitable Terrace: During the season you can relax on the terrace overlooking the market square, ideal for a cup of coffee with homemade apple pie or a refreshing drink. Events and Activities: 't Oal Kroegie organizes various arrangements for family days, staff parties and other gatherings. In addition, the fortress hosts regular events such as cannon firing demonstrations by the Exercitie Peloton Bourtange on Sundays at 3 p.m. during the season.
Cafe Restaurant 's Lands Huys, Address: Market Square 2 Cafe Restaurant 's Lands Huys, located at Marktplein 2 in the historic fortress of Bourtange, combines culinary indulgence with an authentic atmosphere. The building from 1630 breathes history and offers a varied menu with local specialties such as “Bourtanger ox” and vegetarian options. With an attractive terrace and options for group arrangements, it is an ideal place for a relaxing lunch, dinner or meeting. A unique experience in a charming historical setting.
Turkish Speciality Restaurant De Sultan, Address: Wilhelminastraat 39, Vlagtwedde Turkish Speciality Restaurant De Sultan, located at Wilhelminastraat 39 in Vlagtwedde, has been a household name in the region since it opened in 1997. The restaurant offers an authentic Turkish culinary experience with a varied menu, including dishes such as karnıyarık (stuffed eggplant with spicy minced beef and vegetables) and adana kebab (kebab made of coarse minced beef with a spicy aftertaste).Guests appreciate the cozy ambiance and friendly service, as evidenced by positive reviews and an average rating of 4.0 on Tripadvisor.With a spacious terrace and various packages, De Sultan is an ideal place for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.
Restaurant De Ruiten Aa, Address: Zevenmeersveenweg 1, Sellingen Restaurant De Ruiten Aa, located at Zevenmeersveenweg 1 in Sellingen, offers an authentic culinary experience with fresh, regional and seasonal dishes served with Groningen hospitality.The restaurant is ideal for both intimate dinners and larger groups, such as family reunions or staff parties. There are also several activities available, including foot golf and mountain biking, making it a perfect destination for a day out in the beautiful Westerwolde nature reserve.
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