The Helderse Vallei is the starting point of the 4 well-marked canoe routes from Den Helder with various footbridges along the way. In addition, Den Helder has various waterways that are easily accessible for canoes. The city and defense route (red route, 6 km there and 6 km back) passes Fort Dirks Admiraal, Fort Erfprins, Fort Westoever, the line and Willemsoord. Den Helder has a special line of defense that runs right through the city. This line of defense was built to protect Willemsoord, once the port and shipyard of our fleet, from attacks from the land. A visit to Willemsoord guarantees a pleasant day! Fort Westoever was built around 1825 to defend the newly built North Holland Canal against attacks on the port of Den Helder. In 1954 the fort was taken over by the Royal Netherlands Navy. They set up an emergency diesel power plant in the fort. Fort Westoever is the last link in the chain of forts, the passage to Willemsoord and the outer harbor. Fort Dirksz. Admiral is a living history book. From 1812-1813 the fortress was built by the French. In the years 1880-1890 the fortress was equipped with bomb-proof shelters. During the German occupation, the fortress was converted into an anti-aircraft battery. Fort Erfprins is not only the largest fort at 49 hectares, but also has the longest Bombproof barracks in the Netherlands. It is a 3 pentagonal bastion with 3 ravelins and an envelope. To this day, the fort is used by the Ministry of Defense. On the south side of Fort Erfprins are the remains of the oldest surviving defense system of the Den Helder Defense Line: Kaaphoofd Battery. Fort Kijkduin (museum and saltwater aquarium), Fort Harssens and Fort Oostoever are also part of the Den Helder defense line, but do not directly border the route.
De Stad- en Stellingroute
Nearby locations
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Drugstore Trekpleister
Our store sells beauty, beauty, care and mother / child products.
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Lightship Texel
Since 1996, the museum lightship Texel No. 10 has been an absolute eye-catcher in Museum Harbor Willemsoord on the Oude Rijkswerf Willemsoord in Den Helder. What is special is that the now beautifully restored ship is moored a stone's throw from the slipway where she was launched in 1951. After this, the lightship would be a reliable beacon in the sea off the Dutch coast for forty years. It now forms a shining centerpiece of a special museum ships collection. Lightship Texel is open to the public, check the website for current opening times.
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Society for the benefit of General
The department of Den Helder was founded in 1822 and is therefore the oldest existing association of the naval city. For a century and a half it had a pioneering role in education and development. The utility kindergartens, household education, the utility savings bank, these were all initiatives from this local department.
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Marine Watersport Vereniging
Marina with 45 berths and a seasonal bar, close to the center of Den Helder
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Fort Dirksz Admiraal
Defensive fort from 1813 with German bunkers and guided tours
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Fotohut voor het fotograferen van wad- en watervogels
Photograph mudflats and waterbirds up close from a quiet hide near Den Helder.
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Stadhuis Gebouw 66
In the heart of Willemsoord stands a must-see building: Den Helder City Hall. Housed in the historic mast shed, once part of the Royal Netherlands Navy, it is now an open and inspiring space for residents and visitors alike. As soon as you walk in, you're struck by the light, the space, and the wooden support structure. You sense the history, but also the renewed energy. Simply step inside. Exhibitions are often on display – from art and photography to local stories. The program is constantly changing, so there's always something new to discover. The architecture is also remarkable. Old elements have been preserved and combined with modern materials. Think of a steel facade, a three-story atrium, and workspaces with water views. What makes this building particularly appealing is its sustainable character. The mast shed and sailmaker's workshop have been thoroughly renovated for sustainability, with solar panels, smart installations, and a thermal energy storage system. The sailmaker's workshop is even energy-neutral. This is an example of how heritage and sustainability can go hand in hand. A place with character, substance, and an inviting program. Go there, take your time, and be surprised.
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La Cubanita Den Helder
La Cubanita Den Helder is located in the heart of navy city Den Helder. Our restaurant is attractively decorated and due to the limited floor space there is an intimate and cozy ambiance. Enjoy our delicious tapas!
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B&B Texelstroom
Quiet B&B on the edge of the city, with beach and massage within easy reach