Discover the Fern Valley: The largest stumpery garden in the Netherlands!

Discover the Fern Valley: The largest stumpery garden in the Netherlands!

Exciting things are happening in the Arcen Castle Gardens, not far from the Dutch border with North Rhine-Westphalia! On May 29, 2025 that was Fern Valley opened, the largest “Stumpery Garden” in the Netherlands. A place where nature and art meet in a harmonious way and invite visitors to take an enchanted walk.

Over 200 different species of ferns grow here, thriving in a shady landscape between tree stumps and roots. What's special: Tree stumps and trunks that came from the Arcen estate during the construction of new dykes were used for the garden. This creative and ecological design not only creates an aesthetic but also a natural environment for different insects and fungi.

A paradise for young and old

In the Fern Valley, visitors can admire both small plants and impressive ferns up to three meters high. In addition to the impressive flora, there is a varied program that includes, among other things, free tours through the park and the castle. There will be real adventures for the little guests when visiting Fern Valley, including their own fern planting project!

During the opening from May 29th to June 1st, 2025, the experts from the Dutch Fern Association made their knowledge available. The celebration was accompanied by live music from the “Gardeniers” group and street theater, which created a good atmosphere. A successful event that gives new splendor to the historical appeal of ferns, which reached its peak in the 19th century with the famous “Fern Craze”.

Practical information for the visit

The Arcen Castle Gardens are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The entry price is 21 euros for adults and 10.50 euros for young people up to 17 years old. Children under four years of age have free entry. There are also catering options and a well-equipped shop for anyone interested. For the convenience of visitors, the main paths are designed to be barrier-free and wheelchairs are available, although these should be reserved in advance.

If you are visiting from North Rhine-Westphalia, the route is very easy: Farntal is only about 30 minutes from the border. The best way is to take the A40 towards Venlo and use the parking address Lingsforterweg 26, 5944 BE Arcen.

The excitement doesn't take long to arrive! If you would like to find out more about the impressive design of the castle gardens, visit the website Schlossgaerten.de There is all information about guided tours and current events.

A trip to the Fern Valley is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a wonderful opportunity to experience and appreciate the diversity of nature!