Kerkwerve is one of those typical Dutch villages that looks like it came straight out of a postcard. You know, with the cute church in the middle and old houses surrounding it. And everything revolves around that church! Literally, because the whole village stretches out in a circle around this central spot. And that church itself? It stands tall on a mound, which is why the village got its name: Kerkwerve.
If you want to experience what it was like in the old days, you should definitely come by during Open Monument Day. They’ll show you how they used to shoe horses in the “travalje,” a historical horseshoeing stable. And you know what’s funny? When it rained, they just moved to the shed next door. So you can imagine it was quite busy around that place back in the day!
And if you look closely, you’ll see a small statue of a woman on a motorcycle. That’s Sister Zijp-van Bijlo, a local heroine who raced through the village on her JaWa motorcycle as a district nurse. That must have been a spectacular sight! She was famous in the village, and rightfully so!
But outside the village, there’s plenty to see and do too. Take, for example, the hamlet of Moriaanshoofd. There’s a beautiful old windmill there called ‘de Zwaan’. Really a picture you have to see. And did you know there’s also a “vliedberg”? That’s one of those hills that used to be used as the foundation for a castle. How cool is that?
And if you’re not tired of old things yet, you should definitely visit the Recreation Farm of Langeraad. They have a miniature steam train track there! Yes, you read that right, a scaled-down train track. And they also organize special events where you can take a ride yourself. How awesome is that?
And of course, you shouldn’t miss the Prunjepolder nature reserve. It’s such a magical place full of creeks and marshes, right on the Oosterschelde. Bring your binoculars, because you’ll see the most beautiful birds there, like spoonbills fishing in the water with their large bills. And from the dikes, you have the best view. Especially in September, when the samphire gives the area a beautiful color.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your bike or car and come for a day to Kerkwerve! There’s plenty to see and do for young and old alike. And who knows, you might even come across a few sheep happily wandering around on the dike. It’s guaranteed to be a day to remember!