NIENOORD MANOR

Enter the manor square through its entrance gate and stone bridge over the moat. The attractive square – enclosed by the main building and its beautiful annexes – leads to the entrance of the noble Borg Nienoord manor. Go back in time in the Ridderzaal great hall, designed according to the historical style and atmosphere that were all the hype around 1700. Take in its authentic 17th-century elements and rare collection of portraits. Learn more about the three families that ruled the surrounding area as the masters of Nienoord. If you are into visual art, be sure to check out one or more of the temporary exhibitions in the exhibition halls. Afterwards, browse the charming museum shop where you’ll find all kinds of regional gifts and articles available. 

Following your visit to the manor, a visit to the adjacent garden pavilion – also referred to as the Shell Grotto – simply must be part of your excursion. The story of this special cave also dates back to the year 1700, to the days when travelling artists from Venice, Italy, decorated this beautiful garden pavilion with a stunning shell mosaic. The cupola is called the Schelpengrot – Shell Grotto – possibly because the Italian word grotto translates into ‘mosaic room’. 

The Nationaal Rijtuigmuseum – National Carriage Museum – has been established in the Borg Nienoord since 1958. It has one of the largest carriage collections in Europe on display, including royal carriages, such as the oldest carriage of the family of Orange, haycarts, mourning coaches and lots more. The highlight of the collection are the two well-preserved sleepkoetsen. They date from the time when high taxes on carriage wheels were levied, so people simply decided to have their carriage ride on greased blades instead. Then there are some carriages especially set up for children. If you are up for an exciting experience, dress up in the clothes from the box and see what it was like to travel by carriage. Be sure to take a picture!   

After your extensive and unforgettable visit to the manor, you could probably do with a drink and some cake or other snack. Head for the friendly Tuinkamer in the manor to enjoy a well-deserved break. If you have worked up a real appetite, simply choose lunch or a meal. If the weather is nice, enjoy the enchanting view of the vast rural estate from their outdoor café. 

The environs of the manor allow for wonderful walks in the contemporary garden, which still has its original design and layout. Behind the manor is a large family park with a charming playground and petting zoo for the young ones. Swimmers go to the Nienoord subtropical Nienoord swimming pool to whizz off the slide right into the water, play, swim and splash. Gosh, time does fly at the Landgoed Nienoord.