Hidden Gardens & Secret Courtyards: An Intimate Walk Through Utrecht

🗓 Sunday, July 6th
🕑 Meeting time: 14:00
📍 Meeting point: Utrecht Central Station, under the Bollendak (the big roof with glass bubbles)

Join us for a slow-paced, intimate walk through the secret gardens, quiet courtyards (hofjes), and green hideaways of Utrecht. This isn’t your typical city tour — it’s a peaceful exploration of the most charming and unexpected corners of the city, often hidden just a few steps away from the bustling streets.

We'll discover:
🌿 The flower-filled Jan van Ling garden and historic hofjes like Speyart van Woerden and Bruntenhof,
🌱 The centuries-old Oude Hortus, once Utrecht’s university botanical garden,
🌳 A Ginkgo tree planted in 1750, the oldest in Europe,
🧭 Hidden alleyways, medieval courtyards, and even a newly built modern hofje,
🏘 And of course, the iconic Zeven Steegjes — a preserved slice of working-class Utrecht.

Expect a tranquil, contemplative atmosphere, filled with green spots, architectural gems, and historical anecdotes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just curious to see Utrecht from a different angle, this walk is for you.

🍻 After the walk
We’ll wrap up at one of Utrecht’s best-kept secrets: Café DeRat. This cozy, wooden Dutch beer bar is beloved for its stellar selection of tap, bottle, and canned beers, both local and international. A perfect place to relax, chat, and raise a glass together after our stroll.

As always, bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A curious spirit
• And maybe a bottle of water (just in case it’s hot!)

🧡 Group size is limited for a more personal experience.

Looking forward to walking with you!