The Bridge in Vroenhoven: a Historical Place in Belgium

The bridge at Vroenhoven holds a significant place in history, as it was here that the Second World War began in Belgium. This site, where the first shots were fired, serves as a reminder of the conflict that reshaped the world. 

Within the experience center, you can immerse yourself in the harrowing moments of the invasion, experiencing the events hour by hour through words, sounds, photos, and film. Through the voices of soldiers and civilians, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of why the war started in this region and how it impacted those who lived through it.

Beyond its historical significance, the Vroenhoven Bridge also highlights the crucial role of waterways as a mobility network. The Albert Canal, a vital artery in Belgium’s transportation system, plays a key role in the economy and in addressing modern climate challenges. The experience center offers insights into the importance of these waterways, explaining how they function, why they matter, and how bridges like the one at Vroenhoven are constructed. It’s an educational journey that answers many questions about the relationship between infrastructure and the environment.

After exploring the rich history and innovative engineering on display, visitors can unwind at the Onder de Brug cafeteria. Here, you can enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the serene views of the Albert Canal from the terrace. The outdoor auditorium adjacent to the cafeteria is not only a place to relax, it’s also a venue for cultural enrichment. Here music and theater performances are hosted, as well as various events throughout the year.

Nearby, you’ll find the World Peace Flame, a powerful symbol close to the Vroenhoven Bridge. This flame represents peace between nations and peoples, and it stands for tolerance, respect, and harmony. It’s a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of peace through enthusiasm, passion, and inner balance. A fitting tribute to the lessons learned from history and a reminder of the ongoing journey towards a better future.

The Vroenhoven Bridge is a place where past and present converge, offering visitors a chance to reflect on history, understand the importance of modern infrastructure, and find inspiration in the pursuit of peace.

Location: Maastrichtersteenweg 212, 3770 Riemst, Belgium.

Zippa Zebra's Funjungle in Hoogeveen

Nestled in Hoogeveen, the Netherlands, Zippa Zebra's Funjungle is a must-visit indoor playground that promises endless fun for kids. Covering a sprawling 2,000 square meters, this jungle-themed play area is bursting with excitement and adventure. The vibrant setting, complete with camouflage nets, banana trees, and lush greenery, sets the stage for a day full of imaginative play.

Children can dive into a variety of activities, from bouncing on air cushions and exploring the monkey cage to zipping down thrilling zip lines and splashing into ball pools. The playground also boasts a 15-meter-long double toboggan run, where kids can race each other to the bottom, and a football cage for those looking to kick around a ball with friends.

Zippa Zebra's Funjungle offers the perfect mix of adventure and safety, making it an ideal spot for birthdays, playdates, or just a fun day out. It’s a place where kids can let loose, burn off energy, and create unforgettable memories in a jungle of fun.

Location: Groenewegenstraat 21, 7901 ED Hoogeveen, the Netherlands.
Website: zippazebra.nl

Wonderworld: a Fantasy and Animal Park

Wonderwereld (wonderworld) is a fantasy and animal park that offers guaranteed entertainment for young children. The park is located in Ter Apel, in the Dutch province of Groningen.

Wonderwereld has an impressive collection in the nature discovery center, this is a great way to start the tour and learn more about animals. After having a look at the collection, children will have a great time in the dragon cave. Here are a lot of small passageways and fairy-tale creatures to discover.

The park has also a large collection of birds of prey and owls. Close to the playground live the prairie dogs that sometimes come out of their holes. At the end of the tour is the subtropical greenhouse with a collection of animals that live in warm countries.

Location: Ruiten A Kanaal Noord 1, 9561 TE Ter Apel, the Netherlands.

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The Vlooyberg Tower: a Unique Lookout Tower

The Vlooyberg Tower (Vlooybergtoren) is a lookout tower located in Tielt-Winge in Belgium. The tower has the shape of a stairway, it measures over 20m long and 11m high. The Vlooybergtoren stands at one of the highest locations in the region and offers panoramic views of the Hageland.

The stairway has a galvanized framework which is covered in weatherproof steel. Its colour refers to the iron-sandstone heritage of the Hageland region. Around the tower are various walking routes, including in the nearby forest.

Parking is next to Huize Hageland (Oudepastoriestraat 22, 3390 ), from here it's a small walk to the tower.

A Visit to Mondo Verde in Spring

Mondo Verde in Landgraaf is a great place to visit in spring. With lots of green grass and colorful flowers, the world gardens here look even more beautiful. The animals and their offspring can also be seen at lots of places here, nature at its finest.

You can find more pictures about Monde Verde in my previous posts.

Location: Groene Wereld 10, 6372 PW Landgraaf, the Netherlands.

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