The oldest city in the Netherlands, imperial city, student city. All titles for Nijmegen that sound familiar to me. The rich history and cosiness alone are more than excellent reasons for a city trip to this city on the river Waal. But until recently I did not know that Nijmegen is a forerunner when it comes to sustainability. The city has even been declared Europe's Green Capital! A city full of sustainable and conscious spots. I went exploring and collected some special tips for you, a mix of old and new charm and nature, in and just outside Nijmegen.
Things to see and do in Nijmegen - Discover the city on the river Waal
Relax on Veur-Lent - City Island
Walk or cycle across Nijmegen's landmark, the Waalbrug, and set foot on a mini island with a holiday feeling: the island of Veur-Lent. Here you can lay down your towel on one of the beaches, sup on the Nevengeul (even subyoga is an option!) and take in the view of Nijmegen's skyline. After all, the island is right opposite the Waalkade with the Belvédère tower as eye-catcher. New on the island is the artwork "The Face of Nijmegen", a gigantic Roman mask by Andreas Hetfeld. If you look through the eyes of the mask, you will see Nijmegen.
Stroll through the alleys around the Stevenskerk
As an extension of Lange Hezelstraat, the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands, behind characteristic stepped gables lies the Stevenskerkerk with the Sint Stevenskerkhof surrounding it. At the medieval canon houses and the Latin school at the foot of the church, you are thrown back in time.
Have a cup of tea at the Millinger tea garden
Off the beaten track and half an hour's drive from Nijmegen, you will find a hidden pearl hidden in nature. A beautiful walk of just under two kilometres takes you from the little church in Kekerdom, right through the Millingerwaard nature reserve, to this tea garden. The Oriental-Mediterranean-inspired garden with international allure can only be reached on foot or by bicycle, but the effort is certainly rewarded with the delicious snacks and drinks that await you there. A paradise in the polder, hidden in the floodplains.
Special overnight stays - Hotel in Nijmegen
Rest your head on a pillow at credible - hotel Credible
The city's most beautiful mural art can be found at Hotel Credible. A photogenic spot and the perfect base for exploring Nijmegen, as the hotel is located in the city centre and close to the Valkhofpark and the Waalkade.
Eating and drinking in Nijmegen - Eating out at sustainable and conscious places
Get funky downtown - Downtown
From the outside, this lunch spot at Kannenmarkt and near the Waag looks like an establishment in Paris with its elegant façade and terrace chairs. Inside, the bright no-nonsense interior makes you feel like you're in Copenhagen. The menu features funky vegetarian salads inspired by yet other world cities like Tel Aviv, Tokyo and LA. This is a great place to eat out.
Harvest your own fruit and vegetables at germination rate 64
At this food forest owned by Marion Boenders in Malden, you harvest your own organic fruit and vegetables. There, Marion wants to reconnect us with the earth and the food we eat. Kiemkracht also offers herbs, jams and chutneys and, on Saturdays, delicious dishes freshly prepared for you.
Honeyguide Eliane wrote a blog about Deventer, Honeyguide Anne-Floor about the pearl of the south: Breda and Honeyguide Laura about Leeuwarden. Immerse yourself completely in these unique cities.
Love,
Simone
PS. Simone is a storyteller who is always looking for oases of peace and beauty in nature or city, which she calls 'calmspots'. Follow Simone on Instagram @simone_wit.