The story behind Kasteel Oost

About Kasteel Oost

A place where history, quality and experience come together

On the banks of the Geul river, just outside the center of Valkenburg, lies Kasteel Oost: a majestic estate where timeless elegance meets contemporary comfort. In this characteristic castle you will find everything for an unforgettable experience under one roof.

Today, Kasteel Oost is a versatile destination. You can stay overnight in style in the four-star superior hotel, enjoy refined dishes in restaurant Mon Rêve and celebrate special moments in an atmospheric setting. Whether it's a romantic wedding, an intimate family dinner or a business event, Kasteel Oost offers the setting and service that makes every moment special.

In addition to these experiences, you will also find a branch of Koonings in the castle. The only bridal store in the Netherlands located in a monument. Here brides and grooms can find their dream outfit with the unique opportunity to get married at the same location.

Kasteel Oost and its history

Kasteel Oost, located on the Geul in Valkenburg, is an ochre-colored mansion with a rich history dating back to the second half of the sixteenth century. A magnificent building that was always owned by wealthy noble families in which high-ranking personalities came and went. In its heyday in 1626, Kasteel Oost was a place where magnificent feasts took place for days and high society met. Over the centuries, the castle has experienced an eventful history of inheritances and various transfers of ownership, which always took place within the high nobility. However, they all had one thing in common: the attachment and love for Kasteel Oost and its lands.

Its current appearance, including its striking color, dates from 1836. The U-shaped building features a courtyard flanked by pillars with stone lions, and is surrounded by Baroque gardens that are freely accessible. Over the centuries, the castle has had various functions, including agricultural school and literary center.

From 1978, the castle experienced a new revival on the lower floor by the municipality Valkenburg itself, when they decided to build a "romantic wedding palace" here, in which the first couple exchanged wedding vows on August 26, 1978.

In 2023 Ramona Koonings, owner of the largest bridal store in the world, was given the opportunity to participate in the tender for the sale of Kasteel Oost. With a comprehensive and lovingly developed overall concept for this unique property, she won the tender and became the owner of Kasteel Oost in 2024.

With a total area of 34,527 m², the estate now offers a fairytale experience for visitors from Valkenburg and far beyond. With a hotel, restaurant, wellness, event venue, bridal store and men's boutique, Kasteel Oost is a place where tourists, party guests, businesses, brides-to-be and families are enchanted by the charm of the estate.