Top 20 Castles around Apeldoorn
Best castles around Apeldoorn offer a glimpse into Dutch history and architecture within a region known for its natural landscapes. The area features a mix of royal residences, moated castles, and historical estates. Visitors can explore these sites, often surrounded by extensive gardens, parks, and walking paths. Apeldoorn's surroundings provide a setting for historical exploration and outdoor activities.
Best castles around Apeldoorn
- The most popular castles is Staverden Castle, a castle that features extensive gardens and is known for its rare white peacocks. This estate also holds the distinction of being the smallest city in the Benelux with official city rights.
- Another must-see spot is Cannenburch Castle, a 16th-century moated castle. Visitors can explore its historically furnished interiors and the surrounding park, which includes meadows and ponds.
- Visitors also love Het Loo Palace, a grand 17th-century Dutch Baroque palace. It is renowned for its symmetrical Baroque gardens and offers insight into the daily lives of the Dutch royal family.
- Apeldoorn is known for its Baroque palaces, moated castles, and historical estates. The variety of castles provides opportunities to explore different architectural styles and historical periods.
- The castles around Apeldoorn are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 490 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Staverden Castle
Highlight • Castle
The estate and castle have a long history. The counts of Gelderland (later dukes) probably had a court in Staverden as early as the 12th century. In 1299 Count Reinald I obtained city rights from the Emperor. But it never came to a real urban development.
It was probably never the intention that Staverden became a real city. This is apparent from the wording of the granting of the city rights. A research report into the cultural history of Staverden states that the rights granted to Staverden differ greatly from the city rights granted to Gelderland cities at the time. It is stipulated that, in addition to the 'free people', serfs and ministerials or servants may also live there. It can be concluded that we should not regard medieval Staverden as a regular city (to be founded), but as an agricultural settlement with certain legal characteristics of a city. The confirmation of the rights is probably related to the fact that the Count of Gelre is busy increasing his influence on the Veluwe at that time.
Early times
The six preserved burial mounds on the west and east edges of the stream valley show that people were already present in the Staverden area around 4000 years ago. The valley and its surroundings are continuously adapted to the needs of the residents. The stream was used to power water mills. In the stream valley, loam was extracted to bake bricks. Farms were built with fields and large plots of coppice.
Nineteenth and twentieth centuries
From the 19th century, Staverden developed rapidly. Land was reclaimed, roads were constructed or improved and two new farms were built. The aim of the owners was to make Staverden self-sufficient again as a modern agricultural and forestry company, as the estate had functioned for centuries.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Historic Centre of Zutphen
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Rosendael Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Het Loo Palace
Highlight • Castle
There is a huge baroque garden around the palace. The "Kroondomein Het Loo" is the largest connected estate in the Netherlands. It used to be used by the residents of the Palais het Loo and their guests as a recreational area, today you can relax wonderfully while cycling through.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cannenburch Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Apeldoorn.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Apeldoorn
Veluwe Zwerfpad – 21 days of roaming through protected nature
Trekvogelpad (LAW 2) – Bird watching from Bergen aan Zee to Enschede
Maarten van Rossumpad – hiking from 's-Hertogenbosch to Steenwijk
Royal Cycling route – Discover the Veluwe & the Gelderse valley
Five beautiful gravel routes from Natural Campsites
Weekend hike in the east - In two days from station to station
5x Cycling among the falling leaves in Gelderland
In the middle of nature - 20 accessible routes in Gelderland
Clog paths for everyone — 10 walks through the farmland
Sniffer routes – trail runs with your dog in Gelderland
Other adventures around Apeldoorn
Tips from the Community
Paleis Het Loo is an original 17th century palace of the House of Orange. After the renovation, in which an extension with exhibition spaces was added under the palace, Paleis Het Loo is one of the most beautiful museums in Europe according to Prix Versailles. There are exhibitions about the House of Orange, the origins of the Netherlands and current topics.
5
0
The narrow or wide avenues are the perfect way to discover more of the palace gardens.
5
0
The castle has changed its appearance in many ways over the centuries. The current building dates from 1905 and was built by Herman Theodore s'Jacob, the scion of a noble family. His father Frederik Bernhard was mayor of Rotterdam and his grandfather was governor of the Dutch East Indies. The architecture goes back to older styles, but the interior still contains features of the Art Nouveau style that was popular at the time. The rest of the estate is still largely intact and the castle garden has also been restored with honor.
17
0
The multi-winged, baroque palace was built between 1685 and 1692 by the architects Jacob Roman and Daniel Marot near a 15th century moated castle, Kasteel Het Oude Loo. It served as a pleasure palace for the Dutch governor William III, who was also King of England under the name William III from 1688 to 1701, and his wife Mary II of England. The Dutch royal family used the palace as a summer residence until 1975. It is one of the most famous baroque palaces in Europe and was an architectural model. It is also famous for its palace park. The grounds are not accessible by bike, but the little detour is definitely worth it.
16
0
Beautiful Hanseatic city that is worth visiting in many ways.
4
0
Zutphen Zutphen is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. It began as a fortified settlement in the 4th century AD. The Vikings plundered the town in 882, after which a large round fortress was built: a ring wall castle. From this fortified settlement with a count's court and church, Zutphen developed from an important center of power around 1100 to a successful trading town around 1300. The town was granted city rights in 1194 or 1195 and joined the Hanseatic League early on. Zutphen merchants were active on the Rhine, in England, in the Sound (where there were two Zutphen trading settlements) and in the Hanseatic cities on the Baltic Sea.
6
0
Staverden Castle has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The current castle, partly built in 1853 and partly in 1905, is surrounded by a beautiful estate. The brasserie and brewery located on the estate are also nice. Good place to take a break!
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most historically significant castles to visit around Apeldoorn?
Apeldoorn is rich in history. Het Loo Palace, a grand 17th-century Dutch Baroque palace, served as a summer residence for the Dutch royal family for over three centuries. Nearby, Het Oude Loo Castle is a 15th-century moated castle and the older predecessor to Paleis Het Loo. Cannenburch Castle, a 16th-century moated castle, offers a journey back to the 18th century with its richly furnished rooms.
Are there family-friendly castles around Apeldoorn?
Yes, several castles cater to families. Het Loo Palace has a Junior Palace for younger visitors and its vast park is great for walks. Cannenburch Castle is particularly engaging for children, with features like paintings that come to life and an intriguing attic. Staverden Castle, with its extensive gardens and white peacocks, also provides a charming experience for all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around these castles?
The castles around Apeldoorn are often set within beautiful natural landscapes. Het Loo Palace is renowned for its meticulously symmetrical 17th-century Baroque gardens and a vast park. Het Oude Loo Castle features a statue pond and a maze. Cannenburch Castle is surrounded by an old park forest with meadows and ponds. Staverden Castle boasts extensive gardens, streams, and walking paths, and is known for its rare white peacocks.
Are there hiking or walking trails near the castles?
Yes, the areas around the castles offer excellent opportunities for walking and hiking. The grounds of Het Loo Palace and Het Oude Loo are part of the vast Kroondomein Het Loo park, perfect for leisurely walks. The park surrounding Cannenburch Castle is ideal for walking or cycling. Staverden Castle also has beautifully landscaped parks and walking paths. For more extensive routes, you can explore the hiking trails around Apeldoorn.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles near Apeldoorn?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for visiting, as the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor grounds. Het Oude Loo Castle's gardens are typically open to the public in April and May. However, many castles, like Het Loo Palace, are open year-round, offering different seasonal beauty.
Are the castles around Apeldoorn accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Accessibility varies by castle. Het Loo Palace underwent a significant renovation from 2018 to 2023, enhancing its visitor experience, which often includes improved accessibility. For specific details on accessibility features like ramps, elevators, or accessible routes, it's best to check the individual castle's official website before your visit.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?
Yes, several castles offer on-site or nearby dining options. Staverden Castle has a cozy brasserie on-site, perfect for a break, and a beer brewery. Het Loo Palace also has facilities for refreshments within its grounds. Additionally, the surrounding towns and villages offer various cafes and restaurants.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles besides walking?
Beyond walking, the region around Apeldoorn offers various outdoor activities. You can find gravel biking routes through the Veluwe National Landscape, or explore running trails in the extensive forests and parks. The parks around castles like Cannenburch Castle are also suitable for cycling.
How long should I plan for a visit to a castle?
The duration of your visit depends on the castle and how much you wish to explore. For a comprehensive visit to a larger site like Het Loo Palace, including the palace interiors, gardens, and exhibitions, you might need 3-4 hours. Smaller castles like Staverden Castle or Cannenburch Castle might take 1.5-2.5 hours, especially if you also enjoy a walk in their surrounding parks.
Is there parking available at the castles?
Most major castles in the region, including Het Loo Palace and Cannenburch Castle, offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check the specific castle's website for details on parking fees and availability, especially during peak season.
Can I visit Het Oude Loo Castle?
While Het Oude Loo Castle itself is generally not open to the public as it's still used by the Dutch royal family, its beautiful gardens can typically be visited during specific periods, usually in April and May. It's recommended to combine a visit to its gardens with Het Loo Palace for a complete experience of the royal domain.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/973864" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Staverden Castle</a> unique?
Staverden Castle is unique for several reasons. It is described as a small but beautiful castle with a history dating back to the 13th century. It's particularly known for its extensive gardens, the presence of rare white peacocks, and its distinction as the smallest city in the Benelux with official city rights. It also features a brasserie and a brewery on-site.
Most popular routes around Apeldoorn
Most popular attractions around Apeldoorn
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Apeldoorn:
