Zuylen Castle
Slot Zuylen
A medieval castle on the bank of the Vecht River, once the home of the Enlightenment-era writer Belle van Zuylen, with its 18th-century interiors preserved.
Zuylen Castle lies on the Vecht River about 5 km northwest of the city centre. It began as a 13th-century defensive tower, was remodelled into a country estate in the 18th century, and is best known as the former home of the Enlightenment-era woman writer Belle van Zuylen. Her furniture, tapestries and books are preserved inside. Visits are by guided tour, and there is a serpentine fruit-wall garden behind the castle. It is generally open from April to October and closed in winter, and visits should be booked on the official website. Visitors can cycle along the Vecht past many riverside estates, making it a relaxed half-day cycling route.
Opening hours
Approx. Apr–Oct, Tue–Sun (guided visits; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Oudegracht Wharves
- Stationsplein Bicycle Parking
- Neude Library (Former Post Office)
- Museum Speelklok
- Dom Tower
- St. Martin's Cathedral & Pandhof
- DOMunder
- Museum Catharijneconvent