Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the Italy event at the stunning Castle de Haar. If you follow me on Instagram, you might have caught a glimpse. This fairy-tale castle is breathtaking—even just strolling its gardens makes for a delightful outing. Paired with the vibrant Italian festival, it created an immersive atmosphere. Here's my firsthand impression of the experience.
From Schijndel, it was a straightforward 45-minute drive to Kasteellaan 1 in Haarzuilen (near Utrecht): highway stretches followed by scenic Vleuten-de Meern and the picturesque Parkweg lined with beautiful homes. The parking lot was busy, signaling the event's popularity.
The Italy event at Castle de Haar started pleasantly crowded, perfect for soaking in the ambiance. The outdoor grounds transformed into a lively fair with tents showcasing exhibitors' wares.
Stands lined a welcoming path on both sides—no shortage here. Food dominated: tempting olives, Italian hams, pastas, premium oils, plus clothing, creams, lifestyle items, soaps, wines, and limoncello galore.
Live music filled the air, with tasting stations everywhere. Snack and lunch spots abounded, from juicy burgers to fresh pizzas. Our pizza Margherita from Tutta Italia was flavorful, but the long line and over-an-hour wait tempered the experience. A minor hiccup that didn't detract from the day.
Plenty of seating at tables or on the lush castle gardens let visitors relax with lunch—or simply wait comfortably during the Italy event.
We left with fresh olives, delectable pasta from the friendly Gransardegna.com stall, and truffle oil—perfect for home-cooked Italian feasts.
Tickets are €20 per person at the gate; check online for deals—I heard of some snagged for €3 at a holiday auction. Smart savings for that extra Italian sip.
For more details, visit the Italy event at Castle de Haar website.
