A few years ago, we had the joy of discovering the enchanting city of Veere. Nestled in the southwestern Netherlands, in the picturesque region of Walcheren within Zeeland, this captivating municipality boasts a population of around 22,000, while the charming town itself is home to approximately 1,500 residents.

As spring unfurled its blooms, the temperatures hadn’t yet reached summer’s warmth, but the sun bathed the landscape in a golden glow, and the air was pleasantly dry. We seized the opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of the sea. As we journeyed toward the North Sea, Veere unfolded like a captivating historical gem, its rich past echoing in every corner. The town is a delightful tapestry woven with fascinating sights and unique shops, beckoning exploration with each step. In short, Veere is a treasure trove of history and heritage—an unforgettable place that leaves a lasting impression on all who are fortunate enough to visit.

Before we reach the shimmering sea, I can’t resist stopping at the enchanting Neeltje Jans. This charming spot is famous for its succulent mussels, allowing you to savor them right by the harvest site. The experience of tasting such freshness is simply magical! However, today isn’t the best season for mussels, and sadly, they’re not available. But fear not—there’s an abundance of fresh fish to indulge in, and let me tell you, it was absolutely divine!

Indulging in the fish was an extraordinary experience! The perfectly crispy skin, paired with the delightful sauce, made every bite a true pleasure, especially while enjoying the scenic views beside the tranquil waters behind the Delta Works.
The Delta Works stands as a magnificent engineering feat in the southwest of the Netherlands, crafted to shield a vast region around the Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt delta from the relentless embrace of the sea.

Developed over the span of four decades from 1954 to 1997, this impressive network comprises dams, sluices, locks, dikes, levees, and storm surge barriers, gracefully situated in the picturesque provinces of South Holland and Zeeland. The innovative design of the dams, sluices, and storm surge barriers aimed to shorten the Dutch coastline, thus lessening the number of dikes that required elevation. Alongside the renowned Zuiderzee Works, the Delta Works has been celebrated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers, a testament to human ingenuity and resilience against the forces of nature.

While I deeply appreciate the wonders crafted by human hands, my heart is irresistibly drawn to the breathtaking marvels of nature. There is something profoundly moving about wandering along historic paths that have been shaped by the passage of time.

These trails whisper the tales of those who bravely risked everything to forge a lasting legacy, allowing us to connect with the rich tapestry of our shared history. Every time I step into the enchanting city of Veere, I am enveloped by a serene atmosphere, yet there is an undeniable sense that countless stories have unfolded within its borders.

As we entered the enchanting Veere Nature Reserve, we were greeted by a historic gate proudly marked 1572. This year echoes through the corridors of our history, symbolizing the second invasion of Oranje against the dramatic backdrop of the Eighty Years’ War.
In the distance, we caught sight of De Koe, a charming corn mill perched on Warwijcksestraat, at the edge of Veere, near the ancient ramparts. This round, brick-built tower mill, a testament to craftsmanship from 1909, is elegantly whitewashed in the Zeeland tradition. Its stunning zinc-clad exterior and impressive span of 23.5 meters make it a striking landmark, visible from every angle. The Koe is not just a relic; it remains fully operational, proudly grinding grains as it has for over a century. What adds to its allure is the rich history of the site itself, where a previous ground sailer stood since 1736, tragically lost to the flames. Today, the Koe stands as a symbol of resilience and heritage, inviting all who visit to savor its storied past.

We found ourselves entering the enchanting Veerse Creek, nestled within the scenic landscape of the Veerse forest, a charming planted deciduous haven. This unique area is framed by the Veerse Kreken, a series of exquisite creeks that emerged in the aftermath of World War II. As the Allies unleashed their bombs, the sea dikes of Walcheren were tragically destroyed, and once peace returned, the restored dikes left behind tidal channels that gracefully meander through the landscape like nature’s artwork. The Veerse Kreek stands as one of four significant sites on Walcheren where the Allies targeted the sea dyke in 1944, a strategic move designed to flood the island and avert the horrors of battle that had ravaged Zeeland Flanders. This operation was crucial in obstructing the movement of German troops. Tragically, after enduring a year submerged in saltwater, no trees or plants survived outside the bustling city and village centers, leaving behind a stark reminder of nature’s resilience. As I captured these stunning images with my beloved old Leica, I felt transported back in time, the charm of the Leica M Monochrome infusing each shot with a touch of nostalgia and artistry.

As I gaze upon the myriad sailing boats and make my way into the harbor, a tranquil peace envelops me. The sight of the water and those graceful boats feels like a form of therapy; it evokes a profound sense of freedom that’s difficult to put into words. I cherish these moments, savouring a fresh cup of coffee as time itself seems to pause.

Don’t we all long for a reprieve from the relentless pressure of time? The water holds a unique magic, offering healing and serenity to my mind. The soothing aroma and rhythmic sound of the ocean do wonders for my spirit, infusing it with a peaceful calm amidst the chaos of everyday life. What could be more delightful than reconnecting with the elements of nature? They bring a sense of peace and vitality that’s often overshadowed by our busy schedules. It’s a gentle reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, waiting to be appreciated.

I sincerely hope you enjoy the images as much as I enjoyed capturing them.

Thank you