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.

A stroll around Björkholmen still gives you an insight into how it was in the 18th century. The Björkholmen part of the town can be seen as the other side of the tracks in relation to the parade buildings of Trossö. This is where the first shipyard workers and tradesmen lived in small, low cottages, that sometimes rested directly on the flat rock. The streets on Björkholmen are named after different types of ships and admirals. Enjoy the view over Saltsösund and passing boats.

Djupadalen is a lovely forest and recreational area located very near the city centre of Haugesund. It is a very popular place for hiking, as there is an approximately 10km track running through it, and it is also possible to swim in the small Eivindsvannet lake in the warmer summer months.

Piet Hein Eek is one of the most famous Dutch designers. Piet Hein Eek became world famous for his furniture made from scrap wood. Everybody is welcome to view the exhibits in the showroom and gallery, or simply pop in for lunch or dinner in this extraordinary restaurant.