Explore a Palace That Was Truly Lived In
Tucked into the green heart of the Netherlands sits a place filled with royal stories, quiet charm, and timeless elegance. Welcome to Soestdijk Palace, the former home of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard, and one of the few royal estates in Europe that feels more like a lived-in home than a stiff monument. If you’re traveling through the Netherlands and want to experience something both grand and personal, this is the perfect stop.
The palace is located in Baarn, right next to Soest, and surrounded by peaceful woods and manicured gardens. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the calm of the area. Unlike other royal homes that dazzle with gold leaf and over-the-top décor, Soestdijk tells a more intimate story. This is where queens, princes, and princesses spent everyday moments. You can walk past Juliana’s writing desk, admire portraits of King Willem II and Queen Emma, and stroll the same garden paths where the family once enjoyed summer afternoons.
Among the highlights are the main reception halls, where official visits took place, and the wide lawns lined with fountains, bridges, and woodland walking trails. The estate is dotted with beautiful old trees and quiet spots for reflection. If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the small exhibitions or open-air events now hosted in the palace grounds. And yes, Soestdijk has exciting plans for the future, including its transformation into a public cultural center and boutique accommodation. It is truly a place in motion, bridging royal past and creative present.
If you’re staying in central Holland, our cozy Bungalowpark ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest makes visiting Soestdijk Palace incredibly easy. You can bike or walk to the palace in minutes, spend a few hours exploring, and return to your bungalow in time for dinner in the woods. It’s a relaxed and personal way to experience one of the most iconic landmarks in Dutch royal history.
Hidden Corners, Garden Cafés, and Royal Stories at Soestdijk Palace
When most visitors think of Soestdijk Palace, they picture grand halls and royal portraits. And yes, those are worth seeing. But the true charm of this place comes alive when you explore the smaller, quieter details. Step beyond the formal entrance and you’ll start to notice a different kind of magic. This is a place where personal stories, peaceful paths, and simple beauty come together in unforgettable ways.
Walk the Woodland Trails Like a Royal
One of the best things to do after touring the palace is to explore the surrounding estate on foot. The grounds are open and inviting, with trails that wind through old forests, past lily-covered ponds, and across stone bridges. These paths once served as quiet retreats for the royal family. Today, they offer visitors a relaxing space for a scenic walk, a moment of reflection, or even a quiet picnic on the grass. Keep your eyes open for birds, deer, and other wildlife that still call this part of the forest home.
Tucked deeper into the estate, you’ll find small buildings that once served as staff houses and royal guest chalets. While some are closed to the public, others are being restored or used for events and exhibitions. These spaces add depth to the story of Soestdijk, reminding you that it was not only a royal residence but also a working estate, filled with gardeners, cooks, and caretakers.
Treat Yourself at a Local Café
After a long stroll or museum visit, there’s nothing better than a cozy spot for coffee or lunch. Just a few minutes from the palace gates, you’ll find a handful of local cafés that offer outdoor seating, peaceful views, and delicious Dutch treats. Some are tucked along bike routes through Soest and Baarn, while others are close to the train station or palace entrance.
Look for menus featuring apple pie with whipped cream, fresh sandwiches, and warm drinks. Some spots even serve afternoon tea with tiered trays of finger foods. In warm weather, shaded patios let you enjoy your meal while soaking in the green surroundings. Everything feels unhurried, and the service is friendly and relaxed.
Little Moments That Tell Big Stories
Inside the palace, you’ll find items that speak volumes about the people who once lived there. There are hand-written notes from Queen Juliana, black-and-white photos of family picnics, and gifts from foreign leaders. These small objects help paint a more complete picture of royal life. You might also come across stories of Princess Wilhelmina, King Willem III, or even Queen Anna Pavlovna, whose ties to Russian and French royalty added international flavor to the Dutch court.
The best part is that Soestdijk Palace is still evolving. Exhibitions rotate, new parts of the estate open over time, and public events bring fresh energy to the historic space. If you enjoy places where past and present meet in a meaningful way, this is one stop you’ll want to explore with a curious mind and a bit of extra time.
