Visit the place where WWII started in Belgium: learn its military history, see the peace flame and enjoy panoramic views over the Albert Canal.
Right on the border between Belgium and Netherlands lies the bridge at Vroenhoven. The important historical site is mostly known for its part in Belgium's WWII history and its position over the Albert Canal. Here, you’ll find plenty of history, you’ll almost certainly learn something new and maybe even have a tasty bite to eat in a unique location.
On May 10th 1940 Vroenhoven Bridge was one of the locations targeted by a German surprise attack, marking the start of the war for Belgium. This makes it the ideal spot to find out all about Belgium’s WWII experience. In the interactive museum you’ll learn about the German invasion plan, their weapons, life in German-occupied territory and more. A must for history buffs!
- It's not all about the war: Belgian’s love canals, almost as much as the Dutch, and they certainly have their uses. That’s why, along with the museum, there is also an interactive inland shipping experience centre for you to check out.
- Get a Guide: Every first Sunday of the month from 10:00 to 12:00 you can join a guided tour of the experience centre which covers the story of WWII and everything you could ever want to know about Limbrurg’s canals and waterways. Group visits with a max of 20 people can be booked any day of the week.
- Find some peace: Opposite the main car park in Vroenhoven, the World Peace Flame of Belgium overlooks the bridge - it’s been burning non-stop since 2012. Pause there on your way to or from the museum to reflect and enjoy the canal-side surroundings.
- Lunch with a side of vertigo? Well, hopefully not! But, attached to the experience centre, is a brasserie overlooking the Albert Canal. It's called Onder de Brug, ten points if you can guess what that means. Have a bite to eat as your brain digests some interesting facts and enjoy the unique view.
Tips and Tricks
- Sunday guided tours have a maximum of 10 people and don’t need to be booked. You have to pay the entrance fee plus 10 € per person, 6 - 25 years pay an additional 5€ and under 6s go free!
- Guided group visits cost 30€ per hour, for a minimum of 2 hours, and then another 30€ for every hour after that. You can make reservations here.
Getting There
By Car: free parking opposite the peace flame in Vroenhoven.
By Bus: close to the bus stop Vroenhoven Weg naar Kanne. Buses 39 and 39b stop here.
By Bike: the bridge is at the cycle network junction 557
Individuals: W to Su, Closed M and Tu, 10:00 to 17:00
Guided Groups: Every day, 9:00 to 20:00
All seasons
Adult 6€, Kids 1€, special discount rates available
Open; national COVID guidelines apply.
As a photographer, a keen cyclist and a nature lover I can say with no hesitation that Vroenhoven is one of my favourite places in Belgium! It encompasses 3 elements that make me happy - an interesting modern architecture, endless cycling paths and a stunning landscape. It is a great spot to hang out on the weekend, where you can meet some cool people. I always come back! Either with my camera or with my bike or both!
— Agnes, a passionate photographer sharing her perspective on her Instagram @agzet