Utrecht

For this 117th issue, Villas&Golfe has chosen a special destination for you. Curious to find out which? Here are some clues. Hanging in the air you’ll find its youthful spirit, as well as the unmistakable desire to get on a bicycle and pedal off with no destination in mind, following the wind. In mid-March it is transformed into a sea of tulips and handshakes are the usual greeting, while kisses and hugs are considered bad manners. We’re talking about... Utrecht, in the centre of the Netherlands.
Popular for its labyrinthine hidden corners, the Dutch city boasts a medieval flair, which gives it an air of mystery and history. Proof of this can be found in the many museums it contains, the monuments that embellish it and the architecture with which it displays its best features. From the moment you set foot in Utrecht, you realise that the energy is different here. There are traces of human occupation dating back to the Stone Age in what was one of the Netherlands’ first cities. Emperors, bishops and important figures dedicated their lives to rebuilding and improving the region and, today, the «mini-Holland» is truly one-of-a-kind, with its heart fuelled by memory.

Straight out of a fantasy-filled tale, Utrecht is fully aware of its value and, should you want to knock on its door, know that it is expensive. But don’t be discouraged, because the canals of the River Rhine will make you fall in love with it. Of course, the bars, the shops and the restaurants will help you intensify the experience, along with the cultured, young and pragmatic people of the Dutch city. Maybe this is the sign you need to take the «next step» in the relationship and join the list of those who «live happily ever after». But we can give you more reasons. Come with us and try not to get lost in the following lines, many are the streets and alleys. 
By now the snow may have already settled on the ground and covered «mini-Holland» with white. Make sure you wear a warm outfit and get ready for an adventure on wheels. Cycling takes you to Utrecht’s canals, which are just like the ones you see in Amsterdam. Once home to warehouses, today they offer walkways, restaurants and shops. Here, it would be a good time to take a couple photo or take things even further and surprise your better half with an hour-long boat ride along the canals, accompanied by a guide. 

There are traces of human occupation dating back to the Stone Age 

The adventure continues, now in the Dom Tower, which is nothing less than Holland’s tallest church tower. Boasting 112 metres in height, the tourist spot is the great symbol of the city, guaranteeing a breath-taking panoramic view from its top, from where you can see Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Continuing on our way, we stop at the DOMunder, the perfect place for eager visitors. The experience involves learning about both the history of the Dom Square and of Utrecht, through a tour to the excavations that have answered many of the unknowns that hung over the small city’s origins. Between facts and stories, beliefs are also shared about events that seem to be straight out of a fairy tale.
Hunger awakens from its sleep the moment we wander through the streets lined with restaurants and bars, exuding mouth-watering aromas. We would suggest having lunch at De Zakkendrager, a Dutch restaurant that is guaranteed to take you on a gastronomic journey to the country’s roots. For starters, we recommend bitterballen, a type of meat croquette. For the main course, why not go for the typical Stamppot, made of mashed potatoes, vegetables and bacon or sausage. To sweeten your heart, try the city’s famous pancakes. In case you can’t leave your good Mediterranean taste behind, rest assured, there are delicious tapas at the El Mundo bar. Once you’re full, we'll move on to the next place; there’s no time to waste. 

Utrecht is considered one Europe’s most romantic cities

Our destination now is the Kasteel de Haar. Stood in a stunning area we find the country’s largest and most luxurious castle. Majestic, green gardens, luxurious architecture and a huge display of luxury will make you and those who accompany you feel like royalty. Once you are ready to leave the world of royalty and come back down to earth, we recommend that you pay a visit to the Music Museum, and to the EXbunker, a former World War II bunker. Weariness is probably showing its head by now. It’s time to relax and unwind. How about a film? The city’s cinemas are a little risible, but we recommend the Hartlooper or the Springhaver, both with small, old theatres, where you can view some non-mainstream gems. 
Meanwhile, the sun begins to set and it’s time to think of a what you could do in the evening. For a romantic dinner, you might still have time to buy the delicate tulips, available in a host of colours, in a country known as «tulipland». Book a table for dinner by the canals, the ideal place to fan the flames of your love. The waters reflecting the city lights, combined with the delicious dishes typical of the region, create the ideal atmosphere for a touch of romance. It is no coincidence that Utrecht is considered one Europe’s most romantic cities. 
And so, can you still resist the charms of this small city?