Happy TravellerWelcome to Dongen, a charming village in the southern Netherlands. Once home to a thriving leather industry, Dongen still retains its historical charm with a few old shoe factories in the town’s older sections. The town is situated near the Donge River, which was extensively used for the leather industry. Dongen has a population of 22,270 and is surrounded by several smaller villages, including s Gravenmoer, Vaart, and Klein-Dongen.
One of the notable residents of Dongen is Karel Willemen, a Dutch designer who contributed to the fantasy-themed amusement park Efteling. Other famous residents include table tennis player Kelly van Zon, track and field athlete Nadine Broersen, and chess player Anne Haast.
Dongen is a great destination for those who love the outdoors. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park, which is just a short drive away. The park is home to vast sand dunes, heathlands, and forests, making it a perfect spot for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
For those interested in history, Dongen has several interesting landmarks to explore. The town’s main church, the Sint Laurentiuskerk, dates back to the 15th century and is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. The town also has a windmill, the Molen van Dongen, which was built in 1834 and is still in operation today.
Dongen is also a great destination for foodies. The town has several excellent restaurants serving traditional Dutch cuisine, including stamppot, a hearty dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables. Dongen is also known for its delicious pastries, including the famous Dutch stroopwafels.
Overall, Dongen is a hidden gem in the Netherlands that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, Dongen has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to this charming village and discover all that it has to offer?
