The final stop on our European tour was The Netherlands. We stayed for two nights in a house on a holiday park, near to Ewijk in the province of Gelderland. However, with on-site facilities aimed more at young families, and with the nearby town of Beuningen lacking appeal, we chose to explore further afield.
The historic town of Arnhem is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, near the German border. Known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, Arnhem attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the main attractions in Arnhem is the famous Arnhem Bridge, also known as the John Frost Bridge. The original bridge at this site gained international recognition during World War II as it was a key strategic point in the Battle of Arnhem, depicted in the movie “A Bridge Too Far”. Today, visitors can walk across the current bridge (built just after the war) and learn about its historical significance. We visited the town a day before the anniversary of the battle, and to commemorate the event, many streets were flying banners saying “Airborne Arnhem”.
Perhaps as a result of damage during the war, Arnhem is a mix of old and modern buildings. But the place still manages to exude character; and we enjoyed a very pleasant stroll around the centre. Highlights for us were the narrow streets, the impressive cathedral, and of course the John Frost Bridge.
Arnhem is certainly vibrant, with plenty of shoppers and people on bicycles. The city centre is filled with a mix of well-known international brands and unique local boutiques; and the streets are lined with charming cafes and restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines .
Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to the Openluchtmuseum, an open-air museum that showcases the traditional Dutch way of life. Nor did we venture into the surrounding countryside. But we did enjoy visiting Arnhem and would certainly recommend to others.
Time 4 Travel 