The Dommel, one of the smaller rivers in the Netherlands, was immortalised by artist Vincent van Gogh who painted the characteristic windmills that line this winding waterway. The Dommel itself was indispensable to the rich industrial heritage of Eindhoven. Its (then polluted) water was used to keep the steam machines running that produced products like leather, velvet, cigars, hats, soap and textiles. In the 1930s Eindhoven's factories switched from waterpower to electric and diesel powered machines. Small plaques placed along the river now remind us of these old industrial days and you can experience the Dommel for yourself with a hike or a bicycle ride along its banks. The more adventurous can also hire canoes to face its tiny rapids.