The Saint-Francis of Sales Church, listed as a historical monument, is located near the Palais de l'Île, across the Thiou river. Even if the facade seems a bit austere, the interior of the church is luxurious: the baroque style is expressed through an organ, paintings and a magnificent altar. This church used to host religious relics, such as the graves of Saint Francis and Saint Joan of Chantal, which were there before being transported to the Visitation Basilica.

Lauwersmeer National Park, straddling the border of Groningen and Friesland, emerged from the transformation of the Lauwerszee into a lake in 1969. This park, a haven for over 100 bird species and a key stopover in their migratory paths, offers a blend of open water, grasslands, reed beds and forests. Notable for its tranquillity and natural beauty, it's also a designated Dark Sky Park, ideal for stargazing. Home to unique wildlife, including Konik horses and Scottish Highland cattle, the park provides enriching experiences through hiking and boat photo tours.

Officially declared a Dark Sky Park in 2016, Dark Sky Park Lauwersoog National Park is just a 45-minute drive from Groningen and is mostly renowned for its rich birdlife and the popular night walks, offering a celestial escape in a country with an otherwise heavy light pollution. As one of just above 40 Dark Sky Parks worldwide, and the second in the country after Boschplaat, it promises sightings of the nocturnal wildlife, constellations and, on rare occasions, even the northern lights.

It took over 500 years, from the 13th century to the 19th century, to build this Cathedral with volcanic stones. Inside you can find unique stained-glass windows and wall paintings, and if you walk up the Bayette tower you will get the best panoramic view of the area.