Aduard

Dangle your feet from a bench by the canal and contemplate the historic scene of the water, the town, the landscape. Also take in the benches themselves and see what they reveal about the rich history of Aduard and its environs. These works of art – designed and created by artist Reinier van den Berg – depict the Steentil bridge and Aduarderzijl in their steel backs, while fish, birds and boats were cut out from the seats. 

Explore the stories told by these benches when you visit Aduard and watch for signs that show how this village was once a place of importance. Aduard developed around the Cistercian monastery that was founded here in 1192. Canals were dug and locks laid out, and the monastery grew into the largest and most influential settlement of its kind in Groningen. The former infirmary is open to visitors and the museum presents the history of the monastery. Constructed using old Roman bricks, some houses permeate the atmosphere of the olden days. One of them is an old courthouse where justice was administered in the region after the monastery was vandalised and could no longer serve in this function. 

Do the 3D walk to see the monastery, the village and their history come to life. Using modern technology, you can explore an almost lifelike image of the monastery. It also takes in the Lindt – the place where the earliest village residents lived – and the enchanting narrow paths that lead to the outskirts of Aduard and the old cemetery. 

The village of Aduard is also a perfect operating base to explore the Nationaal Landschap Middag-Humsterland scenic area. You should know that this is also the place where you can find the one and only star restaurant in the province: the Herberg onder den Linden. Inspired by the tastes from the Far East, their French-based cuisine prepares exciting dishes. The environment has plenty in store for a wonderful time, so you might want to consider extending your visit. Located just outside Aduard, the rooms of the Best Western Hotel Restaurant Aduard provide beautiful views over the distinctive Groningen countryside.