The city of Oosterhout – North Brabant. Oosterhout is a historic city and municipality in North Brabant, located between Breda and Tilburg, with over 57,000 inhabitants.
The city is known for its charming, compact city center (market/hill), St. John's Basilica, and the Holy Triangle with its monasteries. The city offers abundant greenery, forests (Vrachelse Heide), and a convenient location near the A27 and A59 highways. Oosterhout is often described as a "family town" and "friendly," with a strong focus on conviviality, shopping, and restaurants.
It is a 1-hour and 10-minute drive from Schiphol Amsterdam Airport.
Oosterhout is also known for its informal slogan, "Eat First." The city has a lively city center with numerous terraces, shops, the basilica, and the unique "slotjes" (little castles). It is hidden by wooded nature and has a rich history as a former pottery center. Here are some key features of Oosterhout (NB):
Burgundian 'Eat First': This nickname reflects the Burgundian character and conviviality of the locals, with a wide range of restaurants and cafés.
History and Monuments: Oosterhout has a rich history. Its five existing "slotjes" (little castles), the Slotbossetoren (Castle Tower), and the monastery quarter are characteristic.
Shopping and Recreation: The charming, compact town center offers plenty of shopping opportunities. It is also an excellent base for cycling through the rolling forests and polders.
Location and Accessibility: Oosterhout is strategically located near the A27 and A59 motorways, making it easily accessible.
Sights:
Slotbossetoren (The 'Slotje' ruin): A historic ruin in the Slotbos (Castle Woods).
Toy Museum Oosterhout: A popular attraction.
Basilica of St. John the Baptist: A beautiful religious building.
Environment: The municipality is part of the Zuiderwaterlinie (Southern Water Line).
The city presents itself as a welcoming place with a rich, Burgundian culture that appeals to all ages.
During the Napoleonic era (c. 1800-1813), Oosterhout was granted city status (1809) by Louis Napoleon, brother of Emperor Napoleon and King of Holland.
Castle: There are five historic castles, such as De Blauwe Camer (St. Catherine's Valley).
Monasteries: The Holy Triangle includes the Norbertine Sisters (St. Catherine's Valley), the Benedictine Sisters (Our Lady's Abbey), and the former St. Paul's Abbey (now Chemin Neuf).
Churches: St. John's Basilica is a major attraction.
Southern Waterline: Historic fortifications such as the Slotbossetoren (Castle Tower) and the Line of Den Hout.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Burgundian: Known for its many restaurants, cafés, and the slogan "Eerst Eten" (Food First), which reflects Brabant hospitality.
Shopping: A compact city center with the Arendshof shopping center and many shops and restaurants.
Families: Focus on family life and activities for all ages. Nature & Recreation
Green surroundings: Vast forests, heathlands, and proximity to De Biesbosch National Park, the Loonse and Drunense Dunes, and Efteling amusement park.
Cycling & Walking: A perfect base for cycling, thanks in part to the castles and monasteries.
