The Netherlands often charms visitors with its peaceful canals, famous cheeses, orange colors, and vibrant tulip fields. But beyond these iconic sights lie incredible castles that show the country’s rich history. In this post, we’ll show you the 08 best stunning castles you must visit.
1. Muiderslot Castle
“Muiderslot Castle” is a stunning example of medieval architecture, with its iconic moat and four round towers. Built in 1285 by “Count Floris V”, it played a key role in defending the region due to its strategic location at the mouth of the Vecht River.
One of the castle’s most famous residents was “Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft”, a celebrated Dutch poet and playwright. During his 38-year stay, “Hooft” turned “Muiderslot” into a cultural hub, attracting writers, artists, and intellectuals—a group later known as the Muiderkring.
Today, “Muiderslot” operates as a national museum, allowing visitors to explore Dutch history. Inside, you’ll find beautifully restored 17th-century interiors with original architecture and period furnishings. Guests can climb the towers for panoramic views and learn about its unique defensive features, including the “murder hole” above the entrance gate.
2. De Haar Castle
De Haar Castle, located near Utrecht, is the largest castle in the Netherlands and a stunning example of medieval elegance combined with modern luxury. With its towers, ramparts, moats, and drawbridges, it captures the classic image of a fairy-tale fortress.
The castle was once home to the Van Zuylen family, whose descendants still visit each year. In the late 19th century, architect Pierre Cuypers restored and partially rebuilt De Haar Castle, turning it into a prominent historic house in Europe.
Visitors can explore its lavish interiors, impressive art collections, and the expansive 135-acre park featuring beautiful gardens. De Haar Castle has a rich history of hosting international celebrities like Coco Chanel and Roger Moore during lavish parties.
Today, it is one of the most popular museums in the Netherlands, offering guided tours, exhibitions, and events that bring its fascinating history to life.
3. Doorwerth Castle
Doorwerth Castle, is located near Arnhem and is a stunning example of a medieval moated castle, or waterburcht. First mentioned in 1260, this historic fortress has survived centuries of sieges, expansions, and restorations. Its position on the Rhine River made it a vital defensive structure.
Over the centuries, Doorwerth evolved from a simple hall-keep into a grand complex with multiple wings, a gatehouse, and stables. Today, visitors can explore its beautifully preserved rooms, the armory, and exhibits on castle history, forest management, and Dutch hunting traditions.
4. Slot Loevestein
Slot Loevestein, is a symbol of Dutch history and located in Gelderland. Built between 1357 and 1368 by “knight Dirk Loef” of Horne, it started as a toll collection point for trading ships. Over time, it transformed into a strategic military fortress, enhanced under the orders of William the Silent around 1575.
One of the most famous stories associated with the castle is that of Hugo de Groot, a notable lawyer known as the “father of modern international law.” He was imprisoned here in 1619 but made a daring escape hidden in a book chest, with help from his wife, “Maria van Reigersberch”. This legendary escape has become part of the castle’s lore.
5. Huis Bergh
Huis Bergh Castle, located in ‘s Heerenberg, is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands. Dating back to the 13th century, this impressive fortress features classic elements like a moat, drawbridge, and defensive towers. Once home to the powerful “Van den Bergh” family, the castle played an important role in Dutch history.
The castle’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, including a 13th-century tuff tower and 16th-century fortifications. Today, “Huis Bergh” is home to an impressive art collection featuring Italian and Northern European paintings, historical portraits, and medieval manuscripts. Visitors can explore the grand halls, climb the towers, and stroll through the beautiful 18th-century park, De Plantage.
For a unique experience, guests can stay in luxurious suites within the castle’s towers, combining modern amenities with an authentic medieval atmosphere.
6. Amerongen Castle
Amerongen Castle is a stunning 17th-century Dutch house that reflects the rich history of the Netherlands. Built between 1674 and 1680, it replaced a castle that was destroyed by the French in 1673. Designed by architect “Maurits Post”, this Baroque palace features a grand central staircase with a painted ceiling by “Willem van Nimwegen”.
Inside, the castle showcases an impressive collection of furniture, paintings, tapestries, and porcelain dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries. Its historical significance is underscored by the fact that Kaiser Wilhelm II signed his abdication here in 1918, with the original desk used for this important event still on display.
Surrounded by beautiful historical gardens, Amerongen Castle offers visitors a unique insight into Dutch aristocratic life. The grounds include a rosarium, a children’s house, and a 300-year-old oak tree. Today, the castle hosts various activities, including themed tours, concerts, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant cultural destination.
7. Het Loo Palace
Het Loo Palace, known as the “Versailles of the North,” is a symbol of Dutch royal history and is located in Apeldoorn. Built in 1686 as a hunting lodge for “King William III and Queen Mary II”, this Dutch Baroque palace served as a summer home for the House of “Orange-Nassau” until 1962.
After a recent €171 million renovation, the palace now includes a 5,000 sq. m underground extension. Visitors can explore the grand staircase, period rooms, and art collections that reflect Dutch royal heritage. Designed by “Jacob Roman” and “Johan van Swieten”, the palace features a stunning “Great Garden,” inspired by “Versailles and designed by Claude Desgotz”. Open to the public as a museum since 1984, Het Loo offers a rare insight into Dutch royal life.
8. Heeswijk Castle
Heeswijk Castle, located in North Brabant, began as a wooden fortress around 1050 and later transformed into a brick structure with towers and a gatehouse. Its strategic spot on the River Aa made it crucial for controlling trade routes and defending against invaders.
In the 16th century, the castle expanded with a forecourt, stables, and service buildings. During Louis XIV’s 1672 campaign, Heeswijk served as his military headquarters. In the 19th century, Baron André van den Bogaerde van Terbrugge enhanced the castle’s medieval style, adding an armory and the iconic Iron Tower.
Today, Heeswijk Castle stands as a top monument in North Brabant, showcasing Dutch nobility and centuries of architectural evolution.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the Netherlands’ most remarkable castles, it’s clear that each site provides a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history. From the grandeur of Het Loo Palace to the rustic charm of Huis Bergh, these castles are not just historical landmarks but living stories.
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