Trips and short breaks close to home: The Hague

Cultural highlight at the Mauritshuis

I started my weekend with a cultural highlight: the Mauritshuis. This elegant museum, a jewel of Dutch Baroque architecture, is located right next to the Binnenhof, where the Dutch Parliament sits. The building itself, with its refined symmetry and golden reflections on the water, is a work of art in its own right. I was particularly eager to see Vermeer’s famous painting, ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’. Unfortunately, this famous painting was on display abroad. I was disappointed at first… but only for a moment. Because the Mauritshuis is much more than Vermeer.

I finally stopped for a long time in front of a small painting: ‘Old Woman and Boy with Candles’ by Rubens. The soft, flickering light illuminating the faces of the two characters seemed to come from another era. You can almost feel the warmth of the flame, the silence of the moment. In another room, I came across Rembrandt’s monumental ‘The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Tulp’, a work of such energy and precision that it is hard to believe it was painted in 1632.

Historic lunch at the club

After so much aesthetics, it was time to move on to something completely different: lunch at the venerable ‘Sociëteit De Witte’. A friend, who is a member of this exclusive club, had given me access, an opportunity not to be missed. As soon as I entered, I felt the breath of history: high ceilings, hushed whispers, elegant men with pocket squares and women wearing discreet pearl jewellery. The menu was classic, perfectly executed, and made me forget the grey sky outside. Here, it feels like you’re in another era and you get a glimpse of the old European social culture, which lives on discreetly in The Hague.

In the afternoon, I felt like doing some shopping. The Hague doesn’t disappoint in this area either. The ‘Passage’, a covered shopping arcade dating from the 19th century, has a Parisian atmosphere. The sparkling shop windows reflect Art Nouveau ornaments. Here, traditional elegance blends with modern design. Fashion lovers will find the perfect mix of international brands and small boutiques on Noordeinde street.

History, charm and openness to the world

The evening provided me with culinary proof that the Netherlands does not, unfairly, have the best reputation when it comes to cuisine. In a small restaurant near the Plein, with wooden ceilings and candles, I enjoyed tasty and creative seasonal cuisine. The owner, a funny and charming elderly lady, proudly explained that all the ingredients came from the region. It wasn’t a Michelin-starred menu, but it was full of soul, warmth and flavour.

Later, on my way back to my hotel, I passed the Binnenhof again. The lights were reflected in the water, and the silhouettes of the buildings looked almost theatrical. I was enchanted by the wide boulevards, historic facades and quiet nobility of this city. Looking back, my day was filled with walks, art and interesting conversations. Perhaps it is this incomparable blend of culture and sophistication that makes The Hague so unique.

And as I promised myself I would return soon (hopefully when Vermeer’s girl is back home), I knew that this weekend would remain etched in my memory for a long time to come.

By Lydia Mutsch