Nothing is ordinary here. Guests sense this immediately as they drive up the avenue to Hertefeld Castle. After passing the Weeze Zoo and the Café Eselsohr on the northern edge of the castle grounds, a scene opens up before them that seems almost fairytale-like: Your gaze inevitably lingers on the three-storey main tower with its baroque dome and weather vane, which towers over the ruined castle like a crown.
The white and red painted shutters contrast attractively with the brownish-red brick façade. In front of the entrance, a grassy island with a fountain and flowerbeds completes the picture. The open staircase leads up to the festive halls and rooms, which are not only architecturally impressive, but also regularly serve as a stage for weddings, corporate events and celebrations. Here, history merges with the present: festively laid tables can be found between the historic walls and a coffee bike invites you to treat yourself to a hot drink.
The fact that Hertefeld Castle is a place of living history is also demonstrated by its long past: first mentioned in 1322 as Haus Hertefeld, it has been repeatedly rebuilt, renovated and extended by its owners over the centuries. Today, the estate, which has been owned by the von Hertefeld family for 23 generations, includes not only the partially rebuilt castle ruins, but also the guardian's house, the Hertefeldhof and the historic Rentei. A five-hectare park along the Niers, which combines elements of English and French garden design, frames the ensemble in a picturesque way.
If you would like to stay longer, you can spend the night in one of the 24 rooms. These include suites that combine historical charm with modern comfort. There is plenty of time not only to enjoy the special atmosphere of Schloss Hertefeld, but also to discover the cultural treasures of the surrounding area. Just a few kilometers away, for example, the Lower Rhine Museum Kevelaer tells the history of the region, while the LVR Archaeological Park Xanten and the Museum Schloss Moyland with its modern art are other worthwhile excursion destinations.
By the way: Visiting just this one castle would be far too much of a shame. NRW is the state with the most castles and palaces in Germany. To make it easier for you to choose, we have found a perfect counterpart for Hertefeld Castle: Wissen Castle. Find out more about the duo here.
