Hoeve de Mertel

For countryside days, make for the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park: it’s a mere 15 minutes’ drive away and there’s lots outdoors to do. Rent a mountain bike to traverse the park’s challenging 26-kilometre route, or get in the saddle and explore on horseback – for both you’ll need a license beforehand, which you can order easily online. Otherwise, take to the trails that lead through sandy pine forests and heathland. Should you fancy something city-based, head into nearby Tilburg; its textile heritage has it known nationally as the Netherlands’s ‘wool city’, and its textile museum – in a building that once housed the operation of one of the area’s biggest employers – showcases this with displays of textile machines ancient, old and new. Afterwards, have an amble around and squeeze in a visit to the city’s museum of contemporary art. If you’re travelling with kids, then take them to the fantasy-themed rides and attractions of Efteling theme park in Kaatsheuvel, a short drive away. Based on ancient myths and legends, fairytales and folklore, the rides and attractions here comprise enchanted forests, watery log flumes, dark rides and highly captivating park shows for kids and grownups of all ages.