Het Oude Loo

Tucked away in the heart of dense forests and royal grounds, Het Oude Loo Castle is a stunning example of medieval architecture with Renaissance elements. This historical gem, located in Apeldoorn, is the older predecessor to the famous Het Loo Palace and once served as a cozy hunting lodge for the nobility.

Het Oude Loo Castle. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Today, the castle in the Netherlands is part of a protected royal domain. Unlike its grander neighbor, this site retains an intimate and authentic atmosphere of the past, drawing travelers with its austere yet noble appearance, water-filled moats, and picturesque surroundings.

It is the perfect place for those seeking peace in nature and interested in the history of the House of Orange. The castle blends harmoniously into the landscape of the Kroondomein Het Loo park, creating the feeling of an ancient legend come to life in the heart of modern Europe.

For more details before your visit, you can check the official website or use the castle's address.

A visit to Het Oude Loo Castle is primarily an opportunity to enjoy the peace and beauty of the royal gardens. Visitors can take a walk along winding forest trails, explore the castle’s exterior architecture, and admire the symmetrical Baroque garden designs adorned with sculptures and fountains.

Photography enthusiasts will find magnificent views here: the castle surrounded by water and the ancient walls look perfect in any season. Be sure to go up the accessible colonnades for a panoramic view of the park, or stop by the local garden cafe for a bite in an aristocratic setting.

For families with children, the walk turns into a small adventure: you can spot wildlife in the park and find "secret" paths among exotic plants, such as centuries-old tulip trees. It is recommended to combine a tour of Het Oude Loo with a visit to the main Paleis Het Loo for a complete experience of this grand ensemble.

The royal domain where Het Oude Loo Castle is located is most easily reached from Amsterdam by car. Driving east on the A1 highway takes approximately 45–60 minutes. On-site parking is available for visitors.

If you prefer public transport, take a train to Apeldoorn station (travel time from the capital is about an hour). From the station, you can take a bus to the park entrance or grab a taxi—the ride takes no more than 10–15 minutes.

For those who want to experience the local flavor, a bicycle is the ideal option. Apeldoorn has a well-developed rental network, and scenic bike paths lead directly through the forests to the park gates. During the summer season, tourist excursions are also organized from the city center.

The history of this site dates back to 1439. Originally, Het Oude Loo Castle was built as a modest hunting lodge for Udo Talholt, an influential advisor to the Duke of Guelders. In the 16th century, the building was significantly expanded, and in 1684 it was purchased by Prince William III of Orange, who recognized the potential of these lands for creating a magnificent residence.

At the end of the 17th century, the castle's architectural appearance was enhanced with new pavilions housing royal apartments, a dining room, and an elegant chapel. For a long time, the palace served as a summer home for the rulers of the Netherlands, witnessing important court events and quiet family evenings for the monarchs.

In 1962, Queen Wilhelmina transferred the castle to the state with an interesting condition: if the monarchy were ever abolished, the estate would return to the House of Orange. By 1984, an extensive restoration was completed, returning the complex to the historical appearance we see today.

For a thoughtful exploration of Het Oude Loo Castle itself and a leisurely walk through the adjacent trails of the royal park, you should set aside about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to see the architectural details and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

If you plan to combine your visit with a tour of the neighboring Het Loo Palace, we recommend allowing at least half a day (about 4–5 hours). The complex territory is vast, with many cozy corners where you might want to linger longer.

The castle and its surrounding park are generally open to the public daily from 08:00 to 19:00. This allows you to plan your visit for either the early morning or the pre-sunset hours, when the light hits the ancient walls most beautifully.

Please note that access to certain areas may be restricted depending on the season or private events held by the royal family. We recommend checking the official website of the domain before your trip.

Apeldoorn and its surroundings offer many interesting places that perfectly complement a visit to the royal domain. Exploring these areas allows for a deeper immersion into the history and culture of the region.