The Vincent van Gogh House: a living arts centre in the birthplace of Brabant’s most famous artist ever, stands on the spot where Vincent van Gogh came into the world on 30 March 1853. The protestant Van Gogh spent his childhood years in catholic Zundert, not far from the Belgian border. A reticent and introvert boy, he was educated at home and it soon became clear that Vincent was ‘different’. In the Vincent van GoghHuis you can experience how his time in Zundert moulded him and eventually enabled him to mature to become a world-famous artist. “A must see if you want to know Van Gogh” Vincent’s life had a tough beginning. As the son of the minister Theodorus van Gogh, he quickly became an outsider in the catholic village. He could often be found in the large garden with his younger brother Theo. He would have a wonderful time outdoors, but could also take comfort in it. Maybe that’s one of the reasons why the countryside played such a large role in Van Gogh’s later work? More than a museum In the permanent presentation ‘Vincent van Gogh – the Roots of a Master’, Vincent will take you by the hand and lead you through a re-enactment of his youth and you can learn more about his struggle with faith. Changing exhibitions show the enormous influence of Van Gogh on 20th and 21st century artists, modern art enthusiasts are therefore very much catered for. In addition, the Van GoghHuis has an artist in residence scheme, where an artist can literally step, and live, in Van Gogh’s footsteps every day! Heritage locations in Brabant The Vincent van GoghHuis has its own VVV (Tourist Information) counter and is of course one of the five Van Gogh Heritage locations in Brabant. You can also get to the Van GoghHuis by bike via the Van Gogh Cycle Route that connects all the heritage locations in Brabant.

Cyclists are welcome in these inland sand dunes, on the beautiful wide cycle paths or on the mountain bike trail, but the park is especially suitable to explore on foot or with a dog, if kept on a leash. With the help of the marked hiking routes you can explore the area on your own. It is advisable to bring a walking map so that you do not get lost! For mountain bikers, unpaved bike paths and routes have been set out and horse riding is possible on the marked riding trails (and free riding over the sand). Mountain bikers and riders need a permit, available at Natuurmonumenten, the surrounding catering establishments and riding schools.

Madeira is known for its wine, and what better way to experience the local culture than by joining a wine tour? Learn about the transformation of grapes into Madeira wine, and taste a variety of local flavours. Take a tour in one of five languages and learn about wine production, barrel making and storage.