Photos courtesy of Hotel de Burcht Wedde
Wedde has always had strategic importance because of its location on the trade route to Germany.
In 1530, Berend of Hackfort conquered the castle and strengthened its fortifications by adding a ring wall with four bastions, a gatehouse, and prison cells.
Of note, too, in the 16th century, nineteen women were convicted and burned as witches in the area.
Six years after Berend of Hackfort, the castle was taken by soldiers of Emperor Charles V. George Schenck of Toutenburg was awarded the property for his services to the emperor, and to this day you can see his coat of arms on a stone above the entrance door of the castle.
In 1568, new construction was interrupted when the Counts of Nassau occupied the castle at the beginning of the Eighty Years’ War.
Over the centuries the castle came to resemble more of a house, its fortifications slowly removed. Dilapidation set in. At one point the entire structure was condemned to the wrecking ball, but the property once again found a buyer who came to the rescue.
Pamela’s Perspective
At its heart Burcht Wedde is a castle hotel for disadvantaged children, who are sponsored to come here to enjoy a holiday they might never experience. All proceeds from the castle foundation, including profits from your own castle stay, go to this charity initiative.
Hotel de Burcht Wedde
A 14th-century castle
Contact
Hoofdweg 7
9698 AA Wedde
Tel: ++31 (0) 597 563 070
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Fast facts
2 rooms
Single rooms: 120 euros
Double rooms: 170 euros
Rates include breakfast and tax
Open: all year
Getting there
Wedde is east of Groningen. From the A7 at Winschoten, take the N368 south.
What to do
On site: children’s playground; fishing; bicycling; canoeing
Nearby: Bourtange fortress; Monastery Ter Apel
On outward appearance this castle hotel looks more like an old stone house than it does a castle, but on second glance you’ll find some medieval elements that prove its medieval lineage. A moat that you can boat in and a well preserved round tower give it the distinguishing look, and its long history makes for the deciding factor in, yes, this is a castle hotel.
There are only two rooms here—both up a stairway—that are clean, modern (there’s air-conditioning!), decorated in neutral tones, and with a terrific spa bath. Large windows look out over views of the estate. The staff is incredibly friendly, so if there’s anything you need, just let them know.
Breakfast is served in a cozy living room, and you’ll find excellent gourmet meals made from regional ingredients in the castle restaurant.
Surrounded by nature, the grounds and general environment is gorgeous.
Something special
Burcht Wedde is also a children’s castle for disadvantaged youth supported by the castle’s foundation.
Small museum on site