Queen Máxima traded the palace for farmland on Thursday as she kicked off her latest royal engagement with an unexpectedly hands-on moment.
The Dutch royal, 55, climbed behind the wheel of a tractor during a September 3 working visit to the Achterhoek, where she learned about biobased construction and the use of renewable materials to make buildings more sustainable.
© ANPRather than simply watching the harvesting process, Máxima got involved herself, helping press fiber hemp into large bales and even driving the tractor across part of the field.
And it turns out the Queen may have been more comfortable behind the wheel than her glamorous outfit suggested.
© ANPContractor Bernd Bösing, who accompanied Máxima during the harvesting demonstration, told Dutch outlet Nieuwe Oogst that the Queen revealed she had driven tractors before.
He added that he could tell from the way she handled the machine that she had some previous experience.
© ANPThe unexpected farming moment came with an equally eye-catching fashion choice. Máxima stepped out in a cream-and-gold printed ensemble by Ulla Johnson, pairing the label's Clarisse skirt with its coordinating Estela top.
The romantic design featured statement puffed sleeves, a high neckline and bow detail, while the flowing midi skirt made for a particularly striking contrast against the enormous green tractor.
© ANPRather than opting for boots for the trip to the field, the mom of three completed her look with two-tone NATAN ballet flats. She accessorized with oversized floral earrings and layered bracelets, while wearing her blonde hair loose and straight.
Máxima's excursion wasn't simply an opportunity to test her farming skills. The fiber hemp being harvested in Hengelo is used as a raw material for insulation and other biobased building products.
© ANPAccording to the Dutch Royal House, the fast-growing crop can store significant amounts of CO₂ while also having a positive effect on soil structure.
After getting hands-on with the harvest, the Queen continued to Doetinchem, where she visited a new housing development incorporating sustainable materials.
© ANPShe toured two homes and met residents before concluding the engagement at a sustainably built elementary school featuring cross-laminated timber, a green sedum roof and other biobased materials.
The visit also continued a subject Máxima has explored during previous engagements. She visited projects using biobased building materials in Uden in March 2025 and opened Rotterdam's circular wooden residential building SAWA later that year.
