Day trip to Gorinchem and Loevestein Castle

Visit the Netherlands’ largest fortress and its most famous castle on one and the same day. Stroll through the fortress city, take the ferry or water taxi across the river, and visit Loevestein Castle, the location of the Hugo Grotius’ legendary escape while hiding in a book chest. Coffee with a pastry followed later by a hearty lunch will keep you going. Enjoy a fully catered and relaxed day out!

Coffee with pastry – starting from 10:30

Your day trip to Gorinchem starts with a cup of coffee and a pastry served in Hotel/Restaurant Metropole.

Gorinchem self-guided city walk

With the Gorinchem City Walk (3km) you visit all Gorinchem’s highlights in one go. The folder includes a route map, route description, photos and background information on the sights. The walk starts at the Gorcums Museum at Grote Markt 17.

Lunch

At the end of your walking tour you can sit and enjoy lunch at the lovely Metropole café terrace. Lunch consists of soup du jour, two slices of artisan bread with mature cheese, and a homemade croquette served with coffee, tea, buttermilk or milk.

Cross the river to Loevestein Castle by ferry or water taxi

At the Buiten de Waterpoort quay you can catch the Riveer ferry or water taxi to Loevestein Castle. The ferry departs throughout the day on weekdays in the May to September period and also on weekends in July and August. On days or times when the ferry is not running, you can book a water taxi (at least one day in advance).

Visit Loevestein Castle

Loevestein Castle is an imposing 14th century castle beautifully situated in the river landscape and in the middle of nature. The castle played a significant role in Dutch history, having served as a medieval toll castle, fortress and state prison. The most famous prisoner there was the great Dutch intellectual Hugo Grotius, who, in 1621, managed to escape from the castle by hiding in an empty book chest. Loevestein Castle is a national heritage site and museum. In the 20th century the castle complex was restored to its original glory. You’ll be taken back centuries as you walk along the earthwork ramparts, double ditches, powder tower, arsenal, commander’s residence, tavern and the street with soldiers’ houses. Inside the castle you can listen to short tales.

Return to Gorinchem by ferry or water taxi

The Riveer ferry or water taxi takes you from the Loevestein Castle quay back to Gorinchem.

You can book this arrangement for a maximum at the Gorinchem VVV tourist office.

Regular price €49,95 

Discount price € 39,95 if you are a holder of a Dutch Museum Card, Slot Loevestein Vestingpas (annual membership pass), Vriendenloterij VIP-pass, or ICOM membership card.*

* Only valid if you inform us at the time of your booking. The card needs to be presented at the counter of Slot Loevestein upon arrival