A Royal Welcome at Paleis Het Loo

As a former professor of European history, I have always been drawn to the stories of royalty and nobility that have shaped the continent. The Dutch Royal Palaces and Gardens Tour was an opportunity I couldn’t resist, and it began with a visit to Paleis Het Loo, the summer palace of William and Mary. Our guide, Eva, met us at our hotel lobby, and from the moment we set off, her knowledge and passion for history were evident.

Paleis Het Loo, built in 1685, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the House of Orange. Walking through its halls, I could almost hear the whispers of past monarchs who once called this place home. The palace’s baroque gardens, the only ones of their kind remaining in the Netherlands, were a sight to behold. As I strolled through the meticulously maintained paths, I imagined the royal family enjoying leisurely walks, far from the political intrigues of The Hague.

Eva’s insights into the palace’s history, from its plundering by the French army in 1795 to its occupation by Louis Napoleon, added layers of depth to our visit. Her ability to weave historical anecdotes with the present-day charm of the palace made the experience truly enriching.

A Leisurely Lunch Amidst History

After a morning immersed in the splendor of Paleis Het Loo, we took a break for lunch at one of the palace’s charming restaurants. The setting was perfect for reflecting on the morning’s exploration, and Eva’s company made the meal even more enjoyable. Her personable nature and attention to our comfort ensured that we felt at ease throughout the day.

The conversation over lunch naturally drifted to the next destination on our itinerary: Castle de Haar. Eva’s enthusiasm for the castle’s rich history was infectious, and I found myself eager to uncover the stories hidden within its walls. As we finished our meal, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the afternoon’s adventure.

Stepping into a Fairy Tale at Castle de Haar

The afternoon brought us to Castle de Haar, a place that seemed to leap straight out of a fairy tale. Originally built in the 13th century and reconstructed in the 19th century by Baron Etienne van Zuylen and his wife, Baroness Hélène de Rothschild, the castle is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture.

Eva guided us through the castle’s opulent rooms, each filled with stories of the international jet set who once graced its halls. From Roger Moore to Brigitte Bardot, the castle’s guest list read like a who’s who of the 20th century’s elite. Yet, it was the personal stories of the van Zuylen family that truly captivated me. Their dedication to preserving the castle’s legacy was evident in every detail.

As we wandered through the castle’s grounds, I marveled at the blend of medieval charm and modern luxury. Eva’s ability to bring history to life, combined with her genuine warmth, made the tour an unforgettable experience. As we returned to Amsterdam, I reflected on the day’s journey through time, grateful for the opportunity to explore these royal treasures with such a knowledgeable guide.