The center of Egmond aan den Hoef is within biking or walking distance (3 km or 1.9 miles) from the house. It is located right next to the ruins of the Op den Hoef castle, former residence of the Lord of Egmond, and there are a couple of cafés and restaurants. There is also a small shopping center with a bakery, a fishmonger, a butcher, and an AH supermarket.

At a distance of 6 km (3.75 miles) is the old fishing village of Egmond aan Zee, with a lighthouse and a broad beach. There are a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a swimming pool and other amenities.

The town of Bergen aan Zee boasts a newly renovated salt-water aquarium. Bergen Binnen, 7 km (4.4 miles) away, has long been an artists’ colony that housed famous poets like Roland Holst and Lucebert, as well as painters with their own ‘Bergen School’. The Kranenborg museum often has special exhibits in addition to its permanent collection. It includes a sculpture garden that holds much fascination for children. The community includes various galleries and upscale shops. The Ruïnekerk in the village center regularly hosts concerts. The Zwarte Schuur is an attractive art film house (www.cinebergen.nl) nestled among the trees. The town of Bergen frequently offers cultural events, ranging from art shows to jazz festivals.

The city of Alkmaar has many attractions. Its famous cheese market is held every Friday (April through September) and there are several stage and film theaters. The historical city center offers many shopping opportunities and has an eclectic variety of restaurants and cafés. In addition, the town has a canal system, allowing visitors to take interesting boat tours.

By car, many other historical towns and villages in North Holland are within easy reach. The towns of Hoorn, Enkhuizen, and Medemblik on the IJsselmeer are within an hour’s drive, and you can even get to Amsterdam in less than an hour – either by car or by train.