"Hoek van Holland - Rotterdam aan Zee" Hoek van Holland by Airpunk

Hoek van Holland is known for two things: Its ferry harbour and its beach. The beach is popular all year round: In summer for swimming and sunbathing, in winter for taking a walk along the shore. The ferry harbour is the maritime gateyway to the UK. Also, all sea ships coming from/ going to Rotterdam have to pass by Hoek van Holland as the town is situated at the estuary mouth of the “Nieuwe Waterweg”. It is now part of the city of Rotterdam and took over the functions that Rotterdam – as a non-coastal town - can not fulfill. This fact gave Hoek van Holland the nickname “Rotterdam aan Zee” – Rotterdam at the sea.

The church is one of the oldest buildings

Hoek van Holland (The corner of Holland, sometimes just called “de Hoek”) was founded in the second half of the 19th century. Throughout its history, it was influenced by the military. Shortly after its foundation, a coastal fort was built. During the german occupation, further fortifications were added, inclduing a bunker system. And today, a couple of attractions were built around the bunkers and other military stuff. Hoek van Holland is trying to develop more attractions and offer many sport activites. However, those plan are still in progress.

One of the military museums

In my opinion, the town of Hoek van Holland itself is not really interesting. The military and maritime activities brought many changes within a short time. The high number of new, small and uninspired buildings give it a flair of an artificial sea resort. Almost all sights have something to do with the old fort or the bunkers and – to be honest – that’s not my kind of thing. For me, the reason to go to de Hoek was to spend some time at the beach and read a book. And for that purpose, Hoek van Holland is a good destination.

• Pros:Beach close to Rotterdam
• Cons:There isn't much to see and visit