Part 1: Zierikzee in Zeeland
At first, the people of Groningen did not want to join in, so only the surrounding area joined the defence union of the Seven Provinces. The city itself only joined a few years later, only to leave again. This was and still is seen as a betrayal. Groningen is located high in the north, rather isolated, and has generally shown itself to be rather independent of the larger cities of the Netherlands and especially the Randstad.
Many roads lead to Groningen
Today, the city has a population of 200,000 and a large number of 60,000 students. They ensure an active pub and nightlife. Water sports enthusiasts can reach Groningen either from Delfzijl on the Ems via a very boring canal or from the Lauwersmeer via the beautifully meandering Reitdiep.
Groningen can also be reached from Friesland via the extension of the Prinses-Magrietkanaal, the Van Starkenborghkanaal, up to a clearance of around six metres. There are also passing harbours just outside the city at the Reitdiep or after passing through the city at the eastern end of Groningen. Beautiful, but you should bring some time for the passage. From there you are also very close to the centre.
Going out on the Poeleplein
Groningen is a cosy city to experience, but not all of the historic buildings survived the liberation of the city in April 1945. Nevertheless, it is worth a visit, as are the various museums, such as the Noordelijke Scheepvaart or the Universiteitsmuseum. If you like going out, you should visit the Poeleplein. Here you are sure to get help if you are thirsty or hungry.
Moorings in Groningen
Jachthaven Oosterhaven, jachthavenoosterhaven.nl. Tel. harbour master: +31 6 113 432 02, guest berths up to 20 metres in length, water depth: 4 metres
Part 1: Zierikzee in Zeeland
Also interesting:
- Netherlands: IJsselmeer - the east and the province of Friesland
- Netherlands: IJsselmeer and Markermeer - the south and west
- Netherlands: Marker Wadden - completely natural
