Royal gardens and culture
Some days, you would prefer to leave everything behind: the agenda, the hustle and bustle, even your phone. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug offers the perfect escape. Within a day, you can wander from ancient forests to historic castles and taste the culture and all the beauty the region has to offer at coffee stops. Ready for a regal adventure?
Your day will start off special, driving or cycling down the beautiful driveway of Soestdijk Palace. The silence on the estate is immediately contagious. Stroll at your leisure through the sprawling gardens, past stately trees and ponds where the Oranges once made their morning rounds.
Tip: Don't skip the Orangery and enjoy coffee with homemade cake there. The view of the royal park makes it extra special.
Then, you will hop back on your bike and head towards Groeneveld Castle in Baarn. Along the way, the landscape changes slowly: from stately avenues and old trees to vast forests and small estates. At Groeneveld Castle, it's all about nature, art and good food. The exhibitions change regularly, and the Grand Café offers an inviting place for a long lunch or just a good conversation overlooking the park.
Tip: The Grand Café's homemade cake is highly recommended, as is a walk through the English landscape park surrounding the castle.
If you want, take a detour through the cosy centre of Baarn or Soest along the way - enjoy a short break on a bench in the sun, an ice cream or just some people-watching.
At the end of the day, Slot Zeist is the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. Stroll through the baroque park, settle down on the terrace or in the castle's restaurant, and let the day sink in peacefully. Sometimes there is live music or a small exhibition; sometimes it is just the silence and greenery that keep you company.
Tip: End your day on the terrace or in the restaurant of Slot Zeist, overlooking the baroque castle and the green park. In the evening sun, things get extra special here.
Do you really want to completely disconnect from everyday life? Book an overnight stay nearby and wake up to birdsong and fresh forest air.
Gain inspiration from the past, nature and tranquillity of the Heuvelrug. Feel like going on an adventure? We invite you to create your own 24 hours in this beautiful region.