Those choosing to stay in Sint Maartensdijk can focus on several different themes: a late-medieval castle complex, churches and mills, as well as the De Pluimpot nature area. The Ommetje Sint-Maartensdijk circular walk takes in historical highlights; the annual Fietsvierdaagse offers a possible occasion for cycling enthusiasts. When planning, consider whether architectural history, a walking tour or nature observation will be your main focus.
Town History in Its Buildings
Hof te Sint-Maartensdijk is the site of a late-medieval castle, partially surrounded by a moat. Sint Maartensdijk was granted town rights at the end of the 15th century, making it a Smalstad. Alongside the castle’s history, the town’s story as a place with town rights is also in view. The Maartenskerk is a late-Gothic cruciform basilica; its oldest part dates from around 1400. The design and approximate age of this oldest section offer different starting points for looking at the church. Its carillon consists of 40 bells. Westpoort was once part of the medieval town wall. Another historical detail can be found in the Nederlands Hervormde Kerk: it contains a tomb monument for Floris van Borssele and Oda van Bautersen, dated to around 1425.
Mills and the Connection to the House of Orange
The mills, too, tell of different structures and periods. De Hoop is a round, stone windmill with a gallery, dating from 1847. De Nijverheid is a grain mill from 1868 on Oudelandseweg in Sint Maartensdijk. At De Hoop, the shape, material and gallery stand out; at De Nijverheid, the type of mill, year of construction and street are the key details. The Oranjekamer adds a historical connection to these themes: it shows the link between Sint Maartensdijk and the House of Orange. The range thus extends from architectural forms and medieval traces to a connection with the history of the House of Orange.
Historical Traces Along the Circular Walk
The Ommetje Sint-Maartensdijk circular walk passes the town’s historical highlights. Green signs and yellow arrows mark the route. It follows the remains of the old fortifications and passes monuments and prominent buildings. The walk thus brings together historical traces and distinctive buildings in a single stroll. Follow the green signs and yellow arrows to stay on the marked route. For a local walking route, it is also possible to add a loop around ’t Bleikveld. Route details may change, so check the current route if you plan to take this option.
De Pluimpot and the Fietsvierdaagse
De Pluimpot offers a different focus from the buildings. The nature area can be explored along paths on the dikes. With a little luck, you may spot spoonbills and roe deer there. At the confluence of De Pluimpot and the Oosterschelde lies a broad sea dike with expansive views over the Oosterschelde. Wildlife sightings depend on luck; the far-reaching view is a distinctive feature of the landscape. A knowledgeable guide can help you explore the area and learn more about its history and the plants and animals found there. Guided tours may not always be available, so check in advance if you are counting on one. The Fietsvierdaagse takes place in Sint Maartensdijk every year, with dates that vary.
Discover more destinations: Tholen, Poortvliet, Sint-Annaland, Scherpenisse, Stavenisse, Sint Philipsland
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