The picturesque village of Arcen, located on the German-Dutch border near the city of Venlo, is home to the breathtaking Arcen Castle Gardens. This 32-hectare flower and plant park has been awarded the title of “Most Beautiful Destination in Limburg” for the sixth time by the ANWB, the Dutch equivalent of the ADAC, which I visited for the first time this year with my West Highland White Terrier Charly. After passing through the gatehouse, which dates back to 1651 and houses historical weapons from the 14th and 15th centuries, I bought a day ticket for €18.95 at the ticket office, which can be purchased for €1 less when booked online. I started my discovery tour from the castle courtyard, which is idyllically surrounded by a moat and forms the entrance to the unique gardens and the magnificent 17th-century castle. During my tour of the castle, I was able to experience the centuries-old history of the Dukes of Geldern up close and enjoy the self-playing piano. Afterwards, I strolled with my Westie Charly through more than 15 different gardens, which offer unique scents and colors, from the baroque rose garden with over 8,000 rose bushes to the exotic bamboo forest to the new Mediterranean garden full of palm trees, lavender, and olive trees. I enjoyed strolling with Charly through the magnificent gardens with their numerous ponds and waterfalls. My personal highlight was the Asian water garden with its typical Thai fisherman’s hut in the middle of the beautiful pond landscape. The Arcen Castle Gardens with their fascinating themed gardens felt like a little trip around the world to me, which I enjoyed to the fullest in pure sunshine despite the cold temperature. Various restaurants and cafes also ensure that your culinary needs are well taken care of. The Arcen Castle Gardens are a great destination in the province of Limburg, which gave me and my Westie an unforgettable experience.
