The Netherlands : Part I
I find another beautiful country to take a look into is the Netherlands. I have been to Amsterdam, the North Sea, and not to mention shopping at Roemond, but after reflecting back on that, I thought..I wonder what this picturesque country full of windmills, canals, and super friendly people has to offer my hobby. It's silly to be so close, and not take a chance! The border being roughly an hour and a half away from the Köln area provides a great resource of new castles/fortresses to discover. You are probably thinking...Have I run out of them in Germany? Of course not! But sometimes, I feel even more adventurous, and dare to cross the border to see what other countries have to offer.
After doing some research during my Christmas vacation, I decided to pass the German city of Aachen, and venture into the southern portion of the NLs. Three castles or in Dutch - "Kastelen" were on my list that day.
Kasteel Hoensbroek - http://www.kasteelhoensbroek.nl/
Dating back to 1250, Kasteel Hoensbroek will offer you a really nice Sunday. It's open almost all year round - except for a few major holidays (please check their website for current schedule). There are absolutely no issues finding a parking space - as they have a huge parking lot to the side. For adults, tickets can be bought for roughly € 8.25. I was so lucky the day I went. It was just after Christmas and provided me with an excellent winter's day - beautiful blue sky, and cold. When I arrived - there was hardly anyone there! I walked around and snapped a few pictures, and purchased my ticket. I was off! To my surprise - I seemed to be the only one in the castle. It was exciting, but eerie at the same time. Everything is in Dutch, but they do offer papers to bring with you in various languages, though it seems if you know German/English - you can make out words, and get around. Being by myself and walking up the spiraling tower - that barely fit my height and width - triggered my claustrophobia, but I pressed on. Walking from room to room takes you back in time. It's amazing.
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| Kasteel Hoensbroek |
I definitely recommend this!!!
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| Secret passageway to a hidden room! |
Now, on my way to find Kasteel Schaleon..I ran into an unexpected find! Kasteel Wijnandsrade - http://www.kasteelwijnandsrade.nl/. There is also a huge parking lot next to the Kasteel, and a restaurant inside the walls. I parked, jumped out, and took a quick look inside....
..and continued my journey.
I found both, Kasteel Schaloen and Kasteel Gonhoes, not too far away.
Kasteel Schaloen is just simply beautiful. It offers a nice trail, as well as a hotel/restaurant.
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| Kasteel Schaloen |
Now Kasteel Gonhoes is within walking distance, but I did not venture directly up to it (being so cold) but did manage a few pictures.
It was a long/rewarding day.
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| Kasteel Gonhoes |
Part I of my.... report into the Netherlands....simply beautiful. Enjoy your time - relax on these finds!
(Take note that Kasteel Hoensbroek has made my "Top Pick" list!! )
Tune in next time..when I travel north in the NLs towards Arnhem to meet, and speak with period people at Kasteel Doorwerth...
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