Netherlands > Duurstede Castle

Just before five o’clock in the afternoon, we drive into Wijk bij Duurstede, the first stage of our ‘Castle Weekend.’ Near the harbor, behind the windmill, there is still a parking spot available. We can park the car here overnight. On the other parking lots in the town, parking is limited to two hours. From the parking lot, a sign points towards the Market. However, the sign actually points to a restaurant terrace. That can’t be right. A passerby sees us looking around and points us in the right direction. “Actually, all roads lead to the Market,” she reassures us.

Netherlands - The church tower of Wijk bij Duurstede

The Market forms the center of the historic old town of Wijk bij Duurstede. We check in at Hotel-Restaurant Florian. The staff member leads us to our room. We have to go around the building; the entrance is on the side street. The room is fine. The small bathroom contains the shower and toilet. The sink is located inside the room itself. Strange. We walk into town. The streets are quiet. Very quiet, even for a Friday evening. In Peperstraat, there is a small gate under the houses. Since the Middle Ages, this alley has led to the Mazijk. On the Mazijk square, people are sitting on a terrace and children are playing football. In the park behind the square lies Duurstede Castle.

Netherlands - The ruins of the castle now house a restaurant

On the island in the park stand the castle tower and remnants of the walls. A restaurant is located in the courtyard. At the entrance bridge, a sign indicates that a private party is being held today. We look for another restaurant. Via the harbor, we return to the Market. Opposite our hotel, we order drinks at a terrace. We enjoy the last rays of the sun. When the sun sets behind the houses on the far side of the square, we go inside. Asparagus is on the menu.