Noordgouwe
The village of Noordgouwe and its surroundings are an oasis of greenery. As you walk through the village centre, you will be surprised by the many well-preserved monuments. The village, together with the nearby hamlet of Schuddebeurs, was once a holiday retreat for the wealthy residents of Zierikzee. Admire the villas they built here and enjoy a walk through nature on the large estates.
Historical sights
In Noordgouwe, you will find a well-preserved ring village, with the Driekoningenkerk from 1462 at its centre, built on a slightly raised mound and surrounded by a real moat. The moat and trees create a wonderful green oasis in the centre of the village. Walk around the moat and admire the beautiful old houses in the village centre, each with its own distinctive façade. Another place you should definitely see is the row of widows’ houses on Heereweg. These five cosy white houses were built in 1651 on the site where a real castle once stood.
Country Estates
During the Dutch Golden Age, many country houses were built in Schuddebeurs and Noordgouwe by regents from Zierikzee who enjoyed staying here. Of the 30 estates, 7 have been preserved. They are now all privately owned and not open to visitors. Still want to take a look inside? Visit Noordgouwe during Open Monument Day, when the Mon Plaisir country house opens its doors. Around the estates, you will find landscaped gardens with water features and winding woodland paths. Many birds live here, including woodpeckers, owls and small songbirds, while dragonflies and frogs can be found near the water.
Admire country estates