Explore a historic, fortified city in Zeeland. Walk the city wall and discover its storied past.
Hulst is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s tucked away in eastern Zeeland near the Flemish border known mostly to Dutch and Belgian locals and is a much loved day-trip destination. Why is it so popular? Because it’s one of the best preserved examples of a fortified city in all of the Netherlands. Come see for yourself!
The old town is surrounded by 17th century De Stadswallen. The 3.5km ramparts and moat create a border around the city. Once protecting it from attack, the wall’s three gates are still the only way to access the city centre. Gentse Poort is the main gate and a sight in itself. It makes for a grand entrance into the fortified town. From above the gatemakes a snowflake shaped boundary around the town. Not particularly imposing, but it looks cool!
Flemish Flair
Hulst is the, self-proclaimed, ‘most Flemish city’ in the Netherlands. It is only 3km from the Belgian border, 30km from Antwerp and 40km from Ghent. Get a taste of Belgium this side of the border.
Historic City
Hulst was founded way back in the 12th century. It was totally destroyed in 1453 during the Salt War, aka the Revolt of Ghent. During the 80 Years War, Hulst was on the frontline and occupied a strategic position close to the port of Antwerp. Hulst was captured and recaptured over and over again by the Dutch and Spanish. It was finally won by the Dutch, obviously.
City Wall Walk
Take the easy, paved 3.5km path around the city. Explore the ramparts and look down on Hulst as you get a 360 degree view of the old town with its impressive church in the middle. St Willibrord Basilica was once voted the most beautiful church in the whole country!
Along the way you’ll come across a mill, of course! The Molenbolwerk was built around the same time as the ramparts and remains standing for your viewing pleasure.
As a result of the city’s remarkable history, Hulst is one of Zeeland’s protected townscapes. It has 68 listed historical sites, including the ramparts, town hall and the basilica. Once you’ve walked the city walls, wander down into the town and explore its history from within.
Tips and Tricks
- Look out for the name Reynaert, it’ll pop up around town. Hulst featured in a 13th century story of Reynaert the Fox. This piece of Dutch literature is rare, as it was one of few works from the Netherlands to influence famous foreign writers like Shakespeare and Chaucer.
Getting There
- By Car: there are 5 car parks around the city ramparts.
- By Bus: local bus 589 stops at the Grote Markt. Regional buses (22, 42 and 43) from surrounding Zeeland and Flemish towns, including Antwerp, will stop at the bus station. It is a 10 min walk from the town centre.
- By Bike: the Grote Markt is at junction 49 on the Hulst (municipality) cycle route.
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