Hidden Winter Wonderlands in the Netherlands: Pantropica and De Haar

Reading time: 3 min.
December 2025 – Netherlands

This winter we decided to rebel – well, at least a bit. Instead of going to the same Christmas markets and pretending that we actually enjoy elbow-to-elbow chaos, we went hunting for hidden places in the Netherlands that no one talks about.

That’s how we ended up swapping freezing-cold hands for glowing palm trees at Pantropica Winter Dream, then wandering through the enchanted castle grounds of Castle De Haar’s Luminous Nights.

Result? Magic unlocked, plus extra peace of mind. Easy to reach, no big crowds – just pure winter wonderland.

PANTROPICA WINTER DREAM

We first stumbled upon this green oasis five years ago during a pandemic road trip. Back then it was known as the Orchid Farm, and it instantly became one of the standout memories of our holiday. Wandering through it feels like crossing every continent in a single day, with a warm, tropical indoor climate that brings a summer vibe no matter the season.

And because nothing can make me happier than a warm spot in the middle of winter…the newly redesigned Pantropica felt like the perfect destination. What we found was a magical winter fairytale filled with twinkling lights, candles, live music, a cozy winter fair, and even a skating rink.

Practical info

Where: Pantropica, Oosterringweg 34, 8315 PV Luttelgeest
When: 1 December 2025 – 4 January 2026 (starting with 5 January back to regular entrance)
Tickets: You can opt for a day ticket (daylight only, up to 15:30), evening ticket (candlelight event, after 16:30) or combo (afternoon + evening). Reservation needed in advance, per day and time slot.
Prices: 18.5 EUR/adult for day or evening ticket, 20.5 EUR/adult for combo
Parking: free

CASTLE DE HAAR LUMINOUS NIGHTS

Not only do we love the castle grounds, but we also made sure that every single visitor we had in the Netherlands didn’t leave without a trip to Castle De Haar. You can imagine that when we found out about Luminous Nights, we absolutely had to go – twice.

As soon as dusk settles, the park awakens in an enchanting spectacle of light and sound. This year we were swept away by fantastical tales of the castle and the exotic animals that once roamed its grounds. It’s said to be the most magical winter walk in the largest open-air cinema in the Netherlands. And we can wholeheartedly attest to that!

Practical info

Where: Castle De Haar, Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Utrecht
When: 6 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
Tickets: Reservation needed in advance, per day and time slot (from 17:15 to 21:30).
Prices: 23.5 EUR/adult
Parking: 12 EUR