Oranjestein

Oranjestein is an estate spanning about 28 hectares with a neoclassical main house and extensive gardens. The grounds feature winding pathways, small pavilions, arched bridges, and various water features and green spaces throughout the property.

Merchant Pieter Cats built Oranjestein in 1820 on the site of a former pleasure residence that belonged to the stewards of the ruling family. The estate was later owned and maintained by the De Beaufort family for many decades.

The gardens represent a shift from straight lines to flowing curves, reflecting how Dutch landscape design was changing in the early 1800s. You can see this transition as you walk through the grounds.

The estate can be rented for events and has a parking area on Prins Bernhardweg. The paths are well-maintained and accessible throughout the grounds, making it easy to explore all areas on foot.

The De Beaufort family preserved many original features of the estate, including historical garden ornaments and fencing. This careful conservation makes Oranjestein rare in how clearly you can read its past.

Location: Heerenveen

GPS coordinates: 52.95028,5.97144

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22