Rotterdam, Schiedam

The Van Nelle Factory in Rotterdam is a world-famous industrial monument and one of the most influential industrial buildings of the 20th century. It was designed by Dutch architects Johannes Brinkman and Leendert van der Vlugt and built between 1925 and 1931. A unique combination of modernism and traditional Dutch architecture, the building was designed using innovative techniques. Therefore, it has had a profound influence on Dutch architecture. The Van Nelle Factory is one of the few remaining buildings that represents the so-called Nieuwe Bouwen style of the 1920s and 1930s. Reason enough to be included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites!

On the way, you can get off at Sonneveld House. This modernist residence from 1933 was also designed by architects Brinkman & Van der Vlugt and is also considered the prototype of the Nieuwe Bouw style of the 1930s. House Sonneveld also has, for its time, many modern techniques. It is the only house from that style that still exists. Therefore, great care has been taken to preserve the original state of the house. Today, the house is a museum and you can take a look at the interior and architecture of the 1930s.

Close to Huis Sonneveld is also the Chabot Museum, a museum of contemporary art and named after Dutch painter Jan Hendrik Chabot (1873-1925). The museum is located in the former Dutch Railways office building on the Wilhelminakade in Rotterdam. Over the years, the museum has become a leading museum of contemporary art, including exhibitions of numerous Dutch and international artists. In the museum, a space has been decorated with all kinds of elements from the Van Nelle Factory. The space is open to the public, but is mainly used as an office. At the Chabot Museum, you can also book guided tours of the factory.

Pass by the spot where river Binnenrotte flowed into the city. This is where the 'Dam in de Rotte' was established and thus where Rotterdam has its origins. The point is marked by a work of art by sculptor Ben Zegers. From the quay of the Leuvehaven, you look out on the city's skyscrapers. Perhaps there are a number of nostalgic canal boats in the harbour, highlighting the contrast of old and new. This harbour used to be home to the Van Nelle factory.

The urban is pleasantly interspersed with a the beautiful cycle path along the waters of the Delfshavense Schie and the Nieuwe Maas. In Schiedam, enjoy the green Beatrixpark.

For a bite to eat and a drink, the grounds of the Van Nelle Factory are also the place to be. The barbecue restaurant Black Smoke is located in a former factory building and knows how to surprise you with the tastiest smokey dishes from the grill in a stylish and industrial atmosphere.

Tip: You cycle a large part through the centre of Rotterdam, where it can be very busy in some places. Pay close attention to the junction signs along the road here, as the amount of road signs means you are more likely to overlook them. Don't have to worry about missing the signs? Then cycle the route with the free and user-friendly Fietsnetwerk app!

Photo: ©Eva van der Craats