Walking routes and treasure hunts
Prince Frederick of the Netherlands, son of King William I, owned no fewer than nine country estates in Voorschoten and Wassenaar between 1838 and 1881. Each of these country estates had its own character, which was made into a single whole by the construction of connecting roads. Many of these country estates and roads have been preserved. Three walking routes have been put together to explore Prince Frederick's own country estate. Two exciting adventure trails have been set out for children.
About the walking routes
The first walking route leads via the village centre to De Paauw, the residence where Prince Frederick liked to stay. You will also pass the Deer House on Backershagen, which was used as a playhouse by Princess Marie, the daughter of Prince Frederick. The other two routes lead past the many special places on De Horsten, such as De Seringenberg and Ter Horst Hunting Lodge, where Prince Frederick enjoyed spending time with family and friends. More information and details along the route can be found on the website The History of South Holland.
On an adventure with Prince Frederick
Two adventure trails have been created especially for children: one through the Backershagen/De Paauw park and one through De Horsten. Follow the route on the “ Map ” and stop at the special spots marked with numbers. On the back, you’ll find fun facts and questions about the different locations. The adventure trail is designed for children ages 7 to 11, but is suitable for all ages. It’s fun to do together with parents or grandparents, or during a children’s party. The routes can be downloaded below. Printed copies are available during “ opening hours ” at Raadhuis De Paauw (Raadhuislaan 22), the Municipal Office (Johan de Wittstraat 45), the Wassenaar Library (Langstraat 40), and the tea house at De Horsten (entrance to the estate at Papeweg 36).
Information for teachers
The adventure trail is also suitable for the upper grades of primary education. Learn more about local history together and walk the route. The adventure trail aligns with the canon topic 'South Holland Country Estates' of the South Holland Canon and with the period 'Time of Citizens and Steam Machines'. It connects to the subjects of geography, history, and citizenship. In preparation, you can watch this video 'Life on a Country Estate' with your class.
Do you have questions or comments about the adventure trails? Please email brandts@erfgoedhuis-zh.nl.
Colophon
These adventure trails were developed by the municipalities of Wassenaar and Voorschoten in collaboration with Heritage House South Holland thanks to financial contributions from the Province of South Holland and the Dune, Horst and Pasture Landscape Table. Text: Iris Brandts. Illustrations and design: Flos Vingerhoets. Publication: March 2021. Printer: Druk Tan Heck, Delft. The routes only partially run over paved paths and are therefore unfortunately poorly accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.