Schloss Benrath

Schloss Benrath (Benrath Palace) lies on the southern outskirts of Düsseldorf and is easily reachable by either tram, metro or local train. As I had stayed at the Ibis Düsseldorf Zentrum which was rather close to the train station, I took the train straight there. On the left is one of the vending machines at the station.

Just outside the Benrath train station is an interesting statue depicting the flight of Icarus.

My first glance of the Benrath grounds was that of the stunning mini-lake in front of the palace.  Along with the gorgeous cloud patterns in the sky, this was by far one of the most serene escapes I've ever had the pleasure of visiting.

The palace was built for Elector Palatine (essentially ruler) of the Rhine county in the Kingdom of Germany and the Holy Roman Empire.  Here's a view of the main building also known as the corps de logis, now used for temporary exhibits.  The two wings off to the side (not shown) have now been converted into museums.

Came across this statue on the way to the rear garden and pool.

View from the back side of the palace with a statue in the foreground.

The gorgeous reflecting pool at the rear of the palace completes the restful and scenic park sanctuary.

A view from one end of the pool and also looking back at the flower garden behind the palace.

Another shot of the beautiful mini-lake out front.

There were actually a couple of people on the banks playing with relatively big model boats.  Here's a picture of one of them with Benrath Palace in the background.

I figured these pictures were worth posting as well. On the left is a little girl with her family feeding some swans on the left and on the right is a man speaking to his wife on the first floor.

While this understated palace certainly can't compare to the magnificence and splendor of Versailles or Schonbrunn, the serenity and beauty of the surroundings certainly captured my heart. Do make sure to stop by if you're ever in Düsseldorf!