Fisherman's cottage during autumn in Palace Park Het Loo (1)

by Jeroen de Jongh Photography

The Palace Park is the park surrounding Castle Het Oude Loo and is located adjacent to Palace Het Loo. Crown Estate Het Loo is the largest contiguous estate in the Netherlands and is characterized by a rich cultural history, great biological diversity and much scenic beauty. The area exudes tranquility, beauty and harmony in a vast and large-scale landscape. Traditionally, this park served to relax and entertain the Royal residents of Het Loo and their guests. The influence of the House of Orange-Nassau is tangibly present here.

Starting in the 17th century, work was done in the Palace Park to beautify the landscape. With paths, ponds and alternation between clearings and areas of trees, a varied landscape has been created that looks natural. The western and northern parts of the Palace Park consisted of heathlands after purchase in the 19th century. These were sown with Scots pines. Now these are varied forest areas with small heaths here and there.

The Trout Pond is a long and narrow pond that dates back to 1900. Under King William I, the pond was provided with small bridges and cottages around it. The pond used to serve as a trout breeding pond for the palace kitchen. Now it is just a beautiful stretch of water, surrounded by magnificent structures, such as the Fisherman's House visible in the photo, and flowering plants.