One of my first adventures as a student in the Netherlands was a day trip to Museum Schloss Moyland with my student group, just after orientation and the start of classes. We caught a bus from Nijmegen early in the morning, the kind of crisp, cloudy European weather that promises adventure and, of course, a little rain.
Naturally we were prepared with the cutest umbrella, all ready to explore!
The museum is renowned for housing the world’s largest collection of works by German artist Joseph Beuys, a central figure in 20th-century art. His works, along with those of other artists, are displayed across three floors of the castle, offering a unique blend of historical architecture and contemporary art.
The castle is surrounded by beautifully restored gardens, combining elements of the English landscape garden with geometric patterns from the Baroque period.
Despite the rain, the gardens were enchanting! Sari and I wandered around like little kids again!
We wandered along the paths lined with sculptures and fountains, and the gentle drizzle made the greenery even more vibrant. There was a serene, almost storybook quality to the gardens — the kind that makes you slow down and savor the moment.
After exploring the castle and gardens, we wandered into the town of Kleve itself. The streets were quaint and quiet, lined with historic buildings and small shops.
We found random art hanging from the gardens and played amongst the sculptures.
We stopped at a cute local café to warm up with coffee. There’s something about a steaming cup in your hands, the sound of rain outside, and the company of friends that makes student life abroad feel unforgettable.
True to European weather, it rained on and off throughout the day, but that only added to the charm. With our umbrellas in hand, we strolled through the town, discovering tucked-away streets and little corners we might have missed otherwise. Every cobblestone, every hidden courtyard, felt like part of the adventure.
By the time we headed back to Nijmegen, the rain had slowed, and the soft light of late afternoon gave the town a golden glow. The day had been a perfect mix of history, beauty, and the joy of wandering with friends. Museum Schloss Moyland may be easy to miss on a map, but its charm, gardens, and castle history make it a memorable escape from student life.
LIFE OF SHAL 