Holiday home Matisse is a unique 4-person holiday home situated on the Strijthagen Estate in Landgraaf. This estate encompasses a castle, outer bailey, estate manager’s lodge, a gigantic art exhibition, woodland and fish ponds.
Then and now
Records show that the Landgoed Strijthagen estate has existed since the 13th century. During its rich history, the château has often changed appearance and owner. Some of the previous owners include the Oranje Nassaumijnen mines and artist Aad de Haas. The current owners are Alexander and Katja. Alexander is a sculptor known for his huge bronze creations. Katja is an experienced painter. When the two visited the estate together in 2015, they said it was a sorry sight. The courtyard of the outer bailey was like a wild forest, the gardens were overgrown, and the buildings themselves were in a terrible state of repair. For two years, Alexander and Katja worked to restore the estate to its former glory. During the renovation, they left the original features intact as much as possible, but they also each put their own, creative signature on the building.
Arrival
When you arrive at the estate, you will see the large courtyard of the white, U-shaped outer bailey on your left. Here you can admire a number of owner Alexander’s large bronze artworks. The entrance to Matisse can be found on the left-hand side of the courtyard. Take the stairs up to the first floor to enter the holiday home.
Let’s take a look inside
You enter a warm, open living space with a sitting area, dining table and open kitchen. The compact kitchen is equipped with an authentic 4-burner hob, microwave, refrigerator, Senseo coffee machine and dishwasher. The dining table invites you to have a nice dinner and a good glass of wine. After diner you can relax on the floral 3-seater sofa. Also located on the first floor is a modern bathroom equipped with a shower, washbasin and toilet. The open staircase leads to the mezzanine floor. Here you will find an authentic four-person bedroom with wooden beams that is equipped with two lovely double (box-spring) beds.
Outdoor space
In the characteristic courtyard you have your own bistro set. Take a seat and enjoy the beauty around you. The many bronze statues make up a unique sight. Guests also access to a sprawling landscape of meadows, woodland and fish ponds. Cast your fishing rod in the fish pond or take a stroll through the woods. It is also well worth taking a wander through Katja’s art gallery to admire her art exhibition, or to look at Alexander’s impressive bronze statues in the courtyard of the outer bailey. There is also lots to discover beyond the grounds. For example, the estate is literally in the back garden of the Mondo Verde theme park and a stone’s throw from GaiaZOO.
