One thing is certain: getting lost on the way here is not possible. The Mill of Sluis really stands out, after all, it is a mill. Yes, a big one, like the old days, including a set of enormous red blades. In the Middle Ages, the fortified city of Sluis was the proud owner of about ten pieces, of which three remain today. This is one of them and it is still accessible to the public. From the top of the mill you have a good view of the surroundings and in the associated shop you can buy all kinds of homemade flour and souvenirs. All wonderful old Dutch, we are happy to go along with it. Last but not least certainly not least: In the brasserie you can enjoy a hearty lunch or a drink, from waffles to... bites and from salads to appetizers. The interior has kept up with the times, everything is beautifully up-to-date and personally, the corner with the fireplace in particular called our name, as it often does. You can also go outside, on the terrace in the courtyard. 

Is it the South of France? Is it a dream? No! It's the Uitspanning the Houtzagwerf! On the edge of Kortgene in Zeeland, between the fields, you park your car on top of a dike and waddle down, following the sound of the saw. The small, friendly restaurant was of course not given that name for nothing: right behind a still-operating sawmill, a French country estate opened with a cozy, warm (dark) indoor restaurant. Especially in the summer months, an afternoon or evening here is an un-Dutch gift: chickens roam around the jumble of tables and folding chairs, softly colored cushions and blankets are everywhere and the small menu is on chalkboards. That menu consists of fresher than fresh products and is prepared with a strong French twist. A holiday from the books, even if only for a day.

Whatever season you visit, Fonteyn in Groede is the place for you. Indeed, another spot in Zeeland, we told you it's nice. As soon as the temperature rises, there is a huge queue in front of this shop on the village square for the delicious ice cream. But even when it's pouring down, the crystals are on the windows and the icicles are hanging from your nose (we're already stopping, you get the point) it is indispensable in your daily planning. In addition to ice cream, there are all kinds of delicacies on the menu, from homemade cakes to double toasted sandwiches made from country bread (yes please!), but also less standard combinations such as toast with mushrooms and thyme. Inside it is cozy and cozy, although we recommend the terrace at the slightest ray of sunshine, where you can sit no less than princely thanks to the view of the fountain and the Grote Kerk. 

Admittedly, it is a neck and neck race between Uitspanning de Houtzagwerf and Het Kaslokaal when it comes to the prize for 'the nicest and most atmospheric in Zeeland'. Het Kaslokaal is also a great country estate in the greenery of Zeeland and here too the name of the place tells you what you can expect: a great catering location has been created in and around a greenhouse and here too the chickens happily range around. When the weather is nice, you can find a spot in one of the many seating areas in the enormous garden, and if it rains, the drops will patter on the windows of the greenhouse. For the little ones, a corner of the garden has been designed as a (tasteful) playground, there are all kinds of reading and activity books and a play kitchen has been set up at the back of the wooden extension. Handsome little boy not enjoying himself.

The cute house is located at the end of the cozy Sint Janstraat Room, a children's café with plenty to play, more than enough for shopping and a sunny patio (Sint Janstraat 62).

Also very nice: the small shop Favorite. From Central Station it is a nice walk to the city center. Don't walk straight to the main street: just turn into the London Quay where the Lievelings gift and toy shop is located. Only favorite things here (Londonsekaai 1)

And speaking of favorites: here you can read all our favorites in Middelburg: Barts Best of Middelburg