Historic Country Estate De Knapschinkel near Utrecht

Located on the south bank of the Kromme Rijn at the edge of the woods of the Rhijnauwen and Amelisweerd estates, Landgoed De Knapschinkel is a historic ensemble available for sale. The property comprises a beautifully restored thatched cross house farmhouse, a multifunctional outbuilding formerly used as a bakehouse, a spacious guest accommodation, and a generous garden featuring multiple terraces. The location is unique, offering a serene environment just a ten minute bicycle ride from the vibrant city center of Utrecht. Access to the property is via a stately driveway that welcomes residents to an oasis of calm by the fairytale like Kromme Rijn. This combination of nature, history, and proximity to urban amenities is rare.

Living on this estate means engaging with the seasons, with views of grazing sheep, waving greenery, and the gently flowing water of the river. The whole area is an officially recognized estate where peace, space, and nature coexist with modern comforts. The main farmhouse is a National Monument, originally rebuilt in 1678 after destruction during the disaster year of 1672. The property has a rich history, having been owned by figures such as Hendrick van Utenhove and later the mayor of Utrecht, Paulus Willem Bosch van Drakestein. Since 1998, the ensemble has been carefully renovated, preserving characteristic elements like the thatched saddle roof, wolf gables, and neck gables, while adding modern facilities. In 2010, De Knapschinkel was officially designated as a country estate.

The location in the outskirts of Bunnik provides green tranquility and history but also excellent accessibility. Nearby highways A12, A27, and A28 offer good connections to cities like Amersfoort, Zeist, and Utrecht. There is a bus stop just 100 meters from the plot with regular connections. Recreational attractions such as Theehuis Rhijnauwen, Museum Oud Amelisweerd, and Golfclub Amelisweerd are all within a short distance. The property features a construction year originating from 1678 with a living area of approximately 379 square meters and a volume of about 1510 cubic meters. The plot size is substantial at 6375 square meters, and the property holds an energy label C.

The ground floor layout is accessed via an entrance that leads to a shed suitable for bicycles and gardening tools on one side and the living area on the other. The living space includes an original raised room and a living room. These are beautiful spaces that flow into each other nicely. The living room has multiple French doors opening to the terrace. The fully equipped kitchen is adjacent and features a five burner gas stove, an oven, a microwave, a double sink, a fridge with a freezer compartment, and built in cupboards. Through the kitchen, one reaches a neighboring work room and a hall with the staircase to the first floor. Under the raised room, there is an authentic old pantry cellar belonging to the farm. Under the kitchen, there is a second, smaller cellar.

The first floor offers four comfortable bedrooms, all accessible via the central landing. The main bedroom is spacious and benefits from abundant daylight. The three other rooms can be practically arranged as bedrooms, work spaces, or guest rooms. Centrally located on this floor is a bathroom equipped with a bath, a walk in shower, a double sink, and plenty of natural light. Additionally, there is a separate toilet and a laundry room. Practical storage cupboards complete this floor. The home is heated by a Vaillant Eco Tec Plus boiler installed in 2019, and includes both roof and floor insulation as well as partial floor heating.

Surrounding the residence is a beautifully landscaped garden with several terraces, a walnut tree, and views of the monumental landscape. There is ample space to keep sheep, play outside, or simply enjoy the peace. The garden is fully in harmony with the natural environment of the estate and offers much privacy and quiet. On the front side, there is a heated bicycle storage with shed space. The property includes 25 solar panels, contributing to the energy efficiency of the estate.

The outbuilding known as the bakehouse is set up as an independent unit with its own entrance, a pantry, a shower, a toilet, a living room, a dining room, and a bedroom with a sink. It has its own central heating installation from Remeha, radiators, and a fiber optic connection. This space is ideal for use as a workshop, guest accommodation, or for care living. The bakehouse can be easily reconnected to the main farmhouse to allow for an internal passage.

The guest accommodation or vacation home is a building that forms a harmonious part of the yard, offering contemporary comfort within a characterful context. This elegantly designed object was newly built in 2015 and is located at the beginning of the driveway. It includes a living room with a free view, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, its own kitchen, a multifunctional space, and three terraces. It is a stylish, independent place for guests or rental purposes that fits the authentic appearance of the estate.

Special features of the property include the characteristic cross house farmhouse with sleeping spaces across the main house and outbuildings, a multifunctional bakehouse, and a generous vacation home. The farmhouse is designated as a national monument, which may qualify the buyer for a loan on favorable terms via the National Restoration Fund. The property falls under an NSW classification, which can offer fiscal advantages such as exemption from transfer tax and property tax on unbuilt parts of the estate. The outbuildings have their own facilities, offering possibilities for guest stays, work spaces, or care living. Located on the Kromme Rijn, there is an opportunity to moor a small boat thanks to a servitude right, though potential buyers should consult the selling agent for more details. The NVM purchase agreement will include various clauses, including an old age clause.