Unique castles

Beautiful canals and stately manors surrounded by vast gardens. Around a hundred castles once dotted Groningen's Wadden coast but now only a few remain. They often offer great food and accommodation.

Originally, during the 13th and 14th century, these were stone manors. Stone houses were very unique back then because stone was extremely expensive. They were safe havens in times of turmoil. A moat around the house made it even easier to defend. Harvests were stored here during peacetime. These stone manors were built on the grounds of rich farmers.

Menkemaborg ’t Schathoes, once servants' quarters, is a beautiful old castle that was built in the 14th century. It is now home to both a tearoom and a museum. The castle garden provides vegetables. You'll feel right at home when visiting this estate. 

Landgoed Verhildersum in Leens is a castle originating from the times of the gentry. The stately driveway and beautiful garden with a very old orchard reflect the history of the Hogeland during the 19th century. It is now open to the public and a fantastic place to enjoy a 3-course meal.

Landgoed Ewsum started out as a gun tower. Knight Onno van Ewsum built it in the 15th century. The tower is still intact but over the years the estate has been transformed into one of the most beautiful castles in the Groninger Wadden area. Discover its historical vegetable garden or soak up the sun and the surroundings in the tea garden. 

In the Piloersemaborg in Den Ham, a bit farther away from the coast, Chef Dick Soek waves the sceptre. All the flavours of Groningen are married together in this old castle from 1663. Specialities like the crops from Landgoud, goat's cheese from De Oude Streek, flour from the Molen Joeswert, asparagus and strawberries from Meinardi, herbs from De Keukentuin, goat's cheese from De Kruidenwei, vegetables and fruit from the Eemstuin and the garden from Vermij, fish from De Goede Vissers and meat from De Groene Weg. The whole region on your plate? Then you simply must dine at Dick Soek's restaurant. 

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