Castles & Palaces

The town of Doorn and Huis Doorn are within cycling distance of the Ruwinkel Estate. The history of this house dates back to 838! The current appearance of the house dates from 1796. Its most famous resident was the former Emperor Wilhelm of Germany. After Germany lost the First World War, the emperor was in Belgium and was no longer allowed to enter Germany. He sought asylum with his niece, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands. After living in Amerongen Castle for two years, he bought Huis Doorn. The house has largely been left in its original state and can also be viewed inside. You will also find the mausoleum of Emperor Wilhelm here.

Amerongen Castle is located just 12 kilometers from the Ruwinkel Estate. The history of this fortification began in 1286, but the castle took on its current form in 1680. This castle has been beautifully restored and is open to visitors! During a guided tour, you will learn all the secrets of this historic building.

Renswoude Castle is located in the village next to Scherpenzeel. It dates from around the same time as Scherpenzeel House. This castle is inhabited (apartments) and is therefore not open to visitors. However, you are welcome to walk around the castle in the beautiful woods. In front of Renswoude Castle, across the road, is a pond inspired by the ponds at the Palace of Versailles of Louis XIV, the Sun King.

In the heart of the village of Scherpenzeel, directly behind Dorpsstraat, lies Scherpenzeel House. A fortified house stood on this site as early as the fourteenth century. Scherpenzeel occupied a strategically important position on the border between Gelderland and the Bishopric of Utrecht. It was therefore alternately a Gelderland and Utrecht territory. The house acquired its current style in the 18th century. It is currently used for private public gatherings, including weddings. The park surrounding the castle is freely accessible, allowing you to take beautiful photos of Scherpenzeel House.

Who doesn't know the famous parades that took place on the steps of Soestdijk Palace! The former residence and working palace of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard has now been largely renovated and has been open to the public again since 2023. You can now visit (part of) the palace and enjoy the special atmosphere of this historic building. In addition, public events and exhibitions are regularly organized on the estate.

Curious about what there is to do? View the current overview of activities.

Soestdijk Palace is only a half-hour drive from the Ruwinkel Estate.

The former royal palace 't Loo was primarily occupied in the summer by the stadtholders and later the royal family. The palace was actually inhabited until 1975. The last residents were Princess Margriet's family. Afterward, a thorough renovation took place. The palace reopened to the public on March 30, 2018.