Heusden

Heusden is a beautifully fortified town in the province of Noord-Brabant, situated on the Maas river. Its well-preserved star-shaped fortifications, historic harbour, and charming town centre make it one of the best-preserved fortified towns in the Netherlands. The town was heavily damaged in World War II but was meticulously restored in the 1970s, resulting in a living museum of Dutch military architecture.

Heusden is accessible by bus from 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch) and Waalwijk. By car, it is easy to reach via the A59 motorway.

The historic centre is fully pedestrianised and best explored on foot. The surrounding fortifications make a pleasant walking loop.

• Fortifications — The well-preserved star-shaped ramparts, bastions, and moats

• Town hall — A 16th-century building on the market square

• Harbour — A picturesque historic harbour lined with cafés and restaurants

• Heusden Castle — Remains of a medieval castle incorporated into the fortifications

• Take a walking tour of the ramparts

• Hire a boat to explore the Maas river

• Visit the monthly antique market