I had no idea, but it turns out that I’ve been a fan of one of Utrecht’s quirkier attractions for quite some time – and maybe you have too…
If you’ve ever sat mouse in hand, waiting to hit the button when you spot a migrating fish at the Fish Doorbell then you’ve been watching the incredibly popular underwater attraction of Utrecht.
It’s a wonderfully Dutch mix of innovation, conservation and character, and exactly the sort of offbeat story that gives Utrecht its appeal. Not only is it genuinely helpful for migrating fish, it’s a global talking point.
Why Utrecht?
Utrecht makes a brilliant weekend destination from the UK, with an approximate 30/40-minute train connection from Amsterdam/Rotterdam.
It has all the ingredients that make a Dutch city break so appealing; canals, beautiful historic buildings, buzzing cafés and a lively cultural scene coupled with a relaxed, youthful feel. Often described as the cosier alternative to Amsterdam, Utrecht is cool without trying too hard, making it ideal for a slower-paced weekend away.
Utrecht has a bustling, energetic vibe, with terraces spilling out onto the streets, busy coffee spots and a café culture that makes you want to stay and watch the world go by. It is the kind of place where you can fill your weekend with lazy breakfasts, waterside drinks and long strolls between independent shops and historic squares.
Like most cities in the Netherlands, there is evidence everywhere of the steps they are taking to protect the environment. The city began as a Roman fort and has many ancient buildings and monuments. In order to protect them from pollution, most of the centre has restricted access for motor vehicles – residents take their bikes everywhere.
Like Amsterdam, Utrecht is shaped by water, but its canals have a different feel. You can enjoy a canalboat tour along The Oudegracht, the city’s old canal, which is lined with medieval wharves and wharf cellars. At the lower level, these are now home to cafés, bars and restaurants at water level, a feature that is unique in the world. These canals date back to the Middle Ages, when they were used for transport and storage, and today they give the city much of its charm and character.
Where I stayed
I stayed at the Conscious Hotel, Oudegracht, an eco-friendly stay with serious character, breathing new life into the former Tivoli Oudegracht music venue.
Housed in a historic building in the heart of Utrecht, it pairs sustainable city exploring with some eco-friendly initiatives like bike hire and a 100% organic breakfast. Throughout the hotel there are little touches paying homage to the building’s earlier life as a music venue, used by the likes of The Ramones, Deftones and Franz Ferdinand.
The Conscious Hotel is really handy for exploring Utrecht on foot and it’s the perfect choice for travellers who want a greener stay without losing style or atmosphere.
The food!
A big take-home for me about Utrecht, and the reason I’m already planning to return, is the food!
There are so many incredible independent restaurants and cafés, many with outdoor spaces. As you’d expect for a city with strong green credentials there are lots of vegan options too. I took the V for Food vegan food tour, and my host Patrick was great fun. He had many stories about the city as well as secrets of all the best vegan food hideouts in town.
Other food highlights were:
Lunch at Le Jardin – plant-based with meat and fish options, divine cuisine that varies daily with the available produce.
Dinner at Broei – a pet-friendly relaxed venue, that declares ‘Vegetables are the Leading Star’. On the water’s edge, Broei has an outdoor terrace, ideal for sunny evenings.
Amazing pastries at Life’s a Peach – I’m always on the lookout for a good vegan pastel de nata, and Life’s a Peach offered just that, so good I whizzed back on my way home to get some for the journey!
Last but not least
Presiding over everything is the 112m tall Dom Tower – the Domtoren – Utrecht’s unmistakable landmark. Dating back to the 14th century, it has watched over the city for centuries and remains the iconic centrepiece of the skyline. Rising above the old town, it adds a sense of grandeur to the city. It’s also everywhere in the gift shops with lots of memorabilia to take home.
Those brave enough can take the 465 stairs up this beautiful building to be rewarded by the breathtaking views at the top. The guide assured us all that on a clear day you can see the glint from the windows at the top of The Shard in London. I’m still not sure he was kidding but the tower is huge!
A huge thank you to NBTC for their kind invitation to explore Utrecht, as part of their #Slowlands initiative.
Follow me on @sallyb.leeds for more food finds and green getaway inspiration!
Article written and images by Sally Bendall @girlabouttravel.
