Most beautiful castles in Gelderland

From imposing medieval fortresses to stately estates with beautiful gardens: Gelderland is undoubtedly the castle province of the Netherlands. Scattered across the Veluwe, the Achterhoek, the Betuwe, and the River Area, you will find dozens of castles, each well worth a visit. From the famous Loevestein Castle to the atmospheric Doorwerth Castle. Below, you will discover the most beautiful castles in Gelderland.

Why are there so many castles in Gelderland?

If you travel through Gelderland, you will soon discover that you come across castles in the most beautiful places. And that is no coincidence, for centuries ago noble families had impressive castles built in strategic locations along rivers and trade routes. Fortunately, many of these historic buildings have been preserved or restored with great care.

Nowadays, you can simply visit a large number of castles. Stroll through atmospheric knight's halls, admire centuries-old art collections, or discover the vast castle gardens.

A visit to Loevestein Castle is about much more than just history. Thanks to interactive exhibitions, scavenger hunts, and activities, the castle is also a fun place for families. Children can playfully get acquainted with life in a medieval castle. This makes Loevestein Castle one of the best cultural outings with children in Gelderland.

Tucked away among the forests of the Veluwe and on the floodplains of the Rhine lies Doorwerth Castle. As soon as you walk towards the castle via the centuries-old driveway and the stone bridge, it feels as if you are stepping back in time. This impressive medieval castle in Gelderland is certainly one of the most beautiful castles in the province.

A castle that survived the war

Doorwerth Castle has a history dating back more than eight centuries. What once began as a wooden fortification grew into an imposing stone castle with thick walls, towers, and a moat.

During the Second World War, the castle was severely damaged by the Battle of Arnhem, but thanks to a careful restoration, you can admire it again today in its full glory.

Just a few minutes from Arnhem lies Rosendael Castle, one of the most romantic castles in Gelderland. This castle is best known for its impressive interior, the vast castle gardens, and the famous trick fountains. Together, they form a unique combination of history and nature.

A glimpse into the life of the nobility

For centuries, Rosendael Castle has been the setting for aristocratic life. Discover the richly furnished rooms, atmospheric salons, and impressive works of art that provide a vivid picture of how the inhabitants lived here in the past. Every room tells a new story.

The castle is still maintained with great care. Are you interested in history or monumental buildings? Then a visit to Rosendael Castle is highly recommended.

While many castles are known for their towers and ramparts, Rosendael Castle attracts visitors primarily with the park surrounding the estate. The castle gardens are among the most beautiful in the Netherlands and invite you for a stroll past ponds, fountains, and centuries-old trees.

One of the biggest crowd-pullers is undoubtedly the trick fountains. These centuries-old little fountains spray water unexpectedly upwards as soon as you walk past them. Once intended to surprise the castle residents' guests, they still provide fun for young and old today.

The castle is situated in the heart of the historic center of 's-Heerenberg, a charming town with cozy terraces, shops, and old streets. Nature lovers will also feel right at home here. In the surrounding area, you will find various walking and cycling routes that take you through the varied landscape of the Achterhoek and the Montferland.

In the heart of the Bommelerwaard landscape, surrounded by a wide moat, lies Ammersoyen Castle. This impressive medieval castle in Gelderland is one of the best-preserved castles in the Netherlands and looks almost exactly as it did 650 years ago.

One of the best-preserved castles

A visit to Ammersoyen Castle feels like a journey to the Middle Ages. Unlike many other castles, here you discover not only the knight's halls, but can also explore the narrow staircases, tower rooms, and defensive corridors. Discover everything about the lives of the inhabitants and the important role the castle played for centuries.

During archaeological excavations around the castle, thousands of objects were found, ranging from medieval toys to utensils and weapons. These remarkable finds offer a unique glimpse into daily life hundreds of years ago.

Not only is the interior impressive, but there is also plenty to discover outside. Walk across the bridge towards the castle, enjoy the reflection of the towers in the moat, or take a stroll around the estate.

Guided tours, treasure hunts, and other activities are organized regularly. Are you looking for a castle in Gelderland that is fun with children? Then Ammersoyen Castle is definitely highly recommended.

Not only is the castle worth a visit, but so is the surrounding estate. Take a walk along the ponds, admire the old avenues, or enjoy the tranquility of the park. Thanks to the various activities, tours, and events, there is something new to experience every season.

With its imposing towers, wide moat, and drawbridge, Doornenburg Castle looks like it stepped right out of a knight film. This medieval castle, located in the village of Doornenburg near Nijmegen, is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands.

Where history comes to life

A visit to Doornenburg Castle feels like traveling back centuries in time. The castle consists of an outer bailey and a main bailey, a layout rarely found at castles in the Netherlands. Stroll through rooms, knight's halls, and courtyards during a guided tour.

You might even recognize the castle from television. Doornenburg Castle served as the setting for the popular television series Floris , in which Rutger Hauer played the lead role.

Doornenburg Castle is situated in the heart of the Gelderland River Region. In this area, you will find dikes, floodplains, and picturesque villages that invite you to enjoy a pleasant lunch or a beautiful bike ride. Settle down on the terrace in the outer bailey, for example. With a view of the centuries-old castle, it is the perfect way to end a relaxing day.

Although Hernen Castle may be less well-known than Loevestein Castle or Doorwerth Castle, that is precisely what makes the visit special. You have plenty of space to explore the castle and the surrounding estate at your leisure. Are you looking for an authentic castle in Gelderland, away from the biggest crowds? Then Hernen Castle is absolutely worth a visit.

One of the most stylish castles in Gelderland lies between the forests of the Veluwe and the floodplains of the IJssel: Middachten Castle. The castle near De Steeg has been inhabited by the same noble family for centuries. With its characteristic red shutters, impressive driveway, and beautiful gardens, Middachten Castle is a sight to behold.

A beautiful estate

A visit to Middachten Castle feels like stepping into an English country estate. Although the original castle dates back to the Middle Ages, it acquired its current appearance in the seventeenth century. Inside, you will find richly decorated rooms, antique furniture, paintings, and remarkable family portraits.

Because the castle is still privately inhabited, it is only open to the public on certain days. During a guided tour, you will discover rooms that normally remain hidden and hear the stories behind one of the oldest inhabited castles in the Netherlands.

The gardens are at least as impressive as the castle itself. Middachten Castle is known for its beautifully maintained rose garden, colorful flowerbeds, and neatly laid-out avenues. The estate is at its most beautiful, especially in the summer when thousands of roses are in bloom.

Surrounding Ruurlo Castle lies a beautiful English landscape park where you can enjoy a lovely walk. Stroll along the ponds and enjoy the view of the castle. Thanks to its peaceful location, a visit to Ruurlo Castle can also be easily combined with a walk or bike ride through the surrounding area. The Achterhoek is known for its rural character, charming villages, and winding cycle paths.