Northwest of Utrecht, find the town after which the borough of Brooklyn, New York is named. Wander along the beautiful River Vecht to see grand houses of 17th-century merchants, sail on the Loosdrechtse Plassen (lakes) and explore the Netherlands’ largest castle, Kasteel de Haar.
Tour the impressive Kasteel de Haar, complete with moat and drawbridge. Artworks and wonders from around the globe, collected by Baron Etienne Van Zuylen van Nijevelt van de Haar and his wife, fill the 19th-century castle. Discover luxurious apartments in which family guests such as Bridget Bardot, Roger Moore and Gregory Peck stayed. Wander amid formal French gardens, sniff the roses and imagine ancient times in the Roman garden.
Between Utrecht and Breukelen is the Slot Zuylen, a medieval castle converted into a country house in the 18th century. It is now a museum where you can experience the historic furnishings and art collected by the Van Zuylen family. Enjoy views of the English gardens while sipping coffee on the terrace.
In Breukelen itself is the 13th-century Nijenrode castle, now part of the Nyenrode Business University. This castle is unfortunately closed to the public, but it’s near the road, so you can get a sense of its grandeur from Straatweg. Breukelen is a university town with a smattering of relaxed bars and cafés where you can enjoy a drink. Don’t expect too much nightlife, as the partying is all done in nearby Utrecht.
The most picturesque place for a drink is the Loosdrechtse Plassen, five interconnected lakes located near Breukelen. Have a glass of wine and some bitterballen at one of the waterfront restaurants and enjoy the sunset colors lighting up the lakes. You can also take a sailing lesson, go waterskiing or jump in for a swim. This beautiful area is surrounded by orchards and grasslands, a serene place to enjoy the Netherlands’ natural beauty and plentiful water.
