Akerendam

Akerendam is an 18th-century estate in Beverwijk featuring a central mansion with symmetrical gardens, straight pathways, and decorative water features arranged in classical Dutch style. The entire complex forms a harmonious ensemble where architecture and landscape design work together as one unified composition.

The property was built during the Dutch Golden Age when wealthy merchants from Amsterdam established summer homes in the countryside of North Holland. The buildings and gardens reflect the prosperity and building traditions of that era.

The house demonstrates the Dutch tradition of linking residences with geometrically designed gardens that reflect mathematical precision. Visitors can observe today how this harmony between building and landscape shaped the daily life of its former inhabitants.

The grounds are open during spring and summer months with limited visiting hours, and guided tours are available by advance reservation. It is best to plan ahead and wear comfortable shoes, as visiting involves walking through the gardens and around the property.

The mansion features original baroque decorative elements and houses one of the Netherlands' largest collections of furniture from the 1720s. This rare collection offers insight into the living standards and tastes of its wealthy owners from that period.