De Nederhorst

De Nederhorst is a castle in Wijdemeren featuring octagonal corner towers encircled by a defensive moat and a Louis XIV-style gate marking the main entrance. The architectural ensemble combines these elements to create a cohesive fortified structure.

The castle's core dates to the 13th century, though French forces destroyed it in 1672 during military campaigns. It was entirely rebuilt in 1695, establishing the form that survives today.

During the 1960s, Toonder Studios operated within the castle, connecting it to the popular cartoon character Heer Bommel and leading locals to call it Bommelstein. This artistic connection shaped how the building was viewed by the community and linked it to Dutch pop culture.

The estate sits on a shifting dune formation that has influenced its physical characteristics over time. Note that the property entered a transformation phase in 2022, so visiting may have limitations depending on current renovation status.

The estate gained attention as a creative hub and continues to draw interest from artists and designers. Its setting on an unstable geological formation makes it a rare example of fortifications that adapted to an ever-shifting landscape.

Location: Wijdemeren

GPS coordinates: 52.26164,5.04194

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00