In the province of Limburg, amid the fields, lies the hotel of Castle Erenstein: Hotel Brughof. The hotel is housed in a Limburg farmhouse, dating from 1713, and after radical refurbishment in 1983, the former farm was transformed into a luxurious hotel, only a two-minute walk from Castle Erenstein.

The history
The romantic moated Chateau Erenstein, with its two decorative towers and chapel, dates from the 13th century. The walls are made of locally quarried sandstone with masonry from the Roman villas, which once dotted the Anstel Valley. The chateau was home to many a valiant knight and noble families. In the 18th century, the style of the building was changed by adding baroque windows, Rococo woodcarving, elegant fireplaces and a carved 'hanging' staircase. One of the most important denizens of Erenstein was Gabriël Grupello. He was known throughout Europe as a sculptor. His clients included Louis XIV, Charles II of Spain and the Dutch Stadhouder King Willem III. From 1903 to 1946, the chateau was home to a group of Franciscan friars who had fled from Germany.

The complex fell into disrepair in the seventies and was restored by the municipality of Kerkrade. In 1980, Camille Oostwegel opened his first restaurant in Chateau Erenstein after a major refurbishment. The Brughof, which was built in 1713, used to be one of the tenant farms belonging to the Chateau. The farm, which was in ruins, was entirely restored and is now a hotel. The hotel has 44 rooms, a number are split-level, and suites with their own roof terraces. In the middle of the hotel is a delightful flower decked courtyard, where you can enjoy breakfast or relax with a drink. Restaurant Chateau Erenstein, only a two-minute walk from the hotel, is situated in an elegant park landscape. The glittering chandeliers and creaking staircases within its historic walls recall a rich history. Today the chateau has its own elegant à la carte restaurant.

Oud Erensteinerweg 6
6468 PC Kerkrade
Phone: +31 (0)45 546 1333
Fax: +31 (045 546 0748
www.chateauhotels.nl