36 most beautiful castles in Belgium: a complete guide

Did you know that you can find the most beautiful castles in Belgium? I know castles aren’t exactly the first thing that come to mind when thinking of Belgium. You probably think of Belgian chocolates, beer and fries first. But what if I tell you that this little country actually has the greatest number of castles per square kilometer in the world?

At least 3000 castles are spread all over Belgium. Belgium even has more castles per person than France! Without any exaggeration; every Belgian knows at least one castle just around the corner in his home town. The town where I grew up has two castles only a few streets away from my parental house. In my current neighborhood there are at least three! So you could say you could call my home country Belgium, the fairy tale land!

Most beautiful castles in Belgium

There are several kinds of castles to find in Belgium; medieval fortresses, moated castles, palaces, mansions, ruins… You can find them in every province of the country. Most of them are private property, but luckily you can also visit quite a lot of them! Some can only be admired from the outside, situated in public parks. Others can be visited as a tourist attraction or are even turned into hotels or event locations!

Personally I love visiting castles. They are proof of our long history and remind me of fairy tales, making me dream about knights and princesses. I always wonder what took place inside those castle walls. Surely every castle had its fair share of romance, forbidden loves and affairs, bloody battles, conspiracies, festive balls, strategic battle meetings, murders, tortures, … (I know this sounds less fairy-tale-like, but it is part of the game!)

If you want to discover the most beautiful castles in Belgium, then keep on reading! I visited some of the most romantic castles of the country. I listed them per region and included a map so it is easier for you to plan your castle explorations!

First publication: January 8, 2021
This post will be updated regularly since I will keep exploring castles once the weather gets better and press trips will be organized again! My castle bucket list is still very long!

This article is sponsored by Wallonië België Toerisme (Wallonia Belgium Tourism), however my opinion is as always my own.

Where to find the most beautiful castles in Belgium?

Castles in Belgium per Province

Beautiful castles in Belgium: Flanders

Amazing castles in Antwerp

Sterckshof, Deurne

History

In the 13th century you could find a fortified farmstead called Hooftvunder surrounded by a vest here. Through the ages the farm expanded into a large complex comprising an additional farmhouse and even its own brewery! (I would fortify a brewery as well!) In 1524 the farm was demolished and turned into a castle, known as the Sterckshof.

During the Spanish invasion the castle suffered some damage. But it wasn’t until the 18th-19th century that it turned into a castle of decay due to lack of maintenance. When the Province of Antwerp bought the castle in 1921 there was nothing left but a ruin. In 1931 the reconstruction of the castle in neo-renaissance style finally started.

It used to be the silver museum for a long time, but recently the collection moved to the new DIVA museum in the center of Antwerp and now this beautiful castle in Belgium houses artist studios and Bar Stark, a coffee shop.

fun fact

In 1937 Joseph de Beer became the castle’s curator. He moved into the castle and crammed the castle from cellars to attics full with archaeological, natural history, folklore and artisan collections; more than could ever be exhibited. Which is still the reason why it is so hard to define a clear museum profile and policy.

He was an exceptionally active and versatile man. During WWII he led the resistance “Les Clochards” and printed the resistance newspaper in the castle. He even hid British pilots, Jews and wanted persons in secret rooms, while a garrison of about 200 German soldiers was billeted in the castle!

how to visit & take photos

The Sterckshof is a castle situated in one of my favorite parks in Antwerp, called Rivierenhof. You can walk around it and try to peek through the trees to admire it from all angles. If you want to get a good look of the back of the castle and its garden, you can have a drink at Bar Stark. Their terrace is right in the garden of the castle!

After exploring the castle itself, I strongly recommend to take a long walk in the park. It is truly the most beautiful park in Antwerp. There are a lot of ponds with different species of waterbirds and various paths to explore the huge park. I love exploring this park early in the morning when you encounter only a few early runners. You can see squirrels, bunnies and herons from up close then. At the white Rivierenhof castle (yes, there is another castle in the park) you can eat or have a drink. In front of the white castle you will have a view over the lake. But if you prefer a more quiet meal, you can also sit in the back in the castle’s garden.

how to get there

You can easily reach the castle by car. There are several parking lots around the park. You’ll find the nearest parking lot at Parking West Rivierenhof (Sterckshoflei). If you decide to rent a bike; Sterckshof is located at bicycle junction number 3. (download the app Fietsknoop, which is a bicycle junction routes planner, here (Android) or here (Apple))

Location: Sterckshoflei, 2100 Deurne

Cleydael, Aartselaar

HISTORY

In the 14th century this castle started as a watchtower (the current keep) built on an artificial hill in the stream called Struysbeek. The other sides of the square construction served as defense walls.

As with all castles in Belgium it changed owner frequently. But it wasn’t until 1518 when knight Pieter van der Straeten became lord of the castle that it was repaired and reconstructed. He added a new living area on the west side and the square tower in the south-west corner.

In 1576 the castle was besieged and looted. Until 1592 the battered castle became a refuge for homeless people. After that the castle got sold again and thanks to several owners it got reconstructed. An entrance gate with the coats of arms was added in 1650. The vests and kitchen garden disappeared.

It is still unknown what exactly the proper function was of Cleydael. According to some it was probably never a fortress but rather a hunting lodge and court of plaisance. Now I wouldn’t mind wearing a long fancy dress and have a few cocktails there! However, several defense measures were applied to protect it and some say it was built as a south defense of Antwerp.

fun factS

Each castle tower has a name; Fox tower, Owl tower, Chapel tower and Cat tower. To me it is one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium because of its different towers and it is so well maintained!
Until the 16th century you could ascend the stream Struysbeek(in which the castle is built) from the river Scheldt.

how to visit & take photos

Currently the castle is private property. But a golf club is located on the castle’s domain, so you can enter via the entrance gate in the Cleydaellaan and walk up the driveway to admire the castle. Make sure to walk up to the castle’s gate to get another perspective too.
You can organize a private event here like a wedding reception. That way you will have the opportunity to see the castle’s courtyard! How cool is that! If I would ever get married, I think I would do it in a castle!

how to get there

Across the street you can park your car at the parking lot. By bike you will find it en route between bicycle junctions 32 and 17.

Location: Cleydaellaan 36, 2630 Aartselaar

Bossenstein, Broechem

HISTORY

Bossenstein is mentioned for the first time in 1346 as the property of Joannes de Busco (that is also how it received its name Bossenstein; busco means woods, which is bos in Dutch). The keep dates from the 14th century. The wings east and west from the keep date from the 16th century (maybe 15th, this is unsure). In 1544 the castle consisted of a brewery (What can I say… this is Belgium!), a baking house, barns, stables, a pigeon house, a wagon house etc.

The violence of World War I damaged the castle. But in 1920 it became inhabitable again after restoration. Another renovation took place in 1963 and the castle looks amazing ever since! So it definitely belongs in this list of beautiful castles in Belgium!

how to visit & take photos

Like many castles in Belgium, Bossenstein is private property but you can take the path across Bistweg 19. This path is open to the public. It will take you along the castle, but you won’t be able to see it very good. You could take the side road to the right to admire it from afar.

The best way is probably to go golfing at the Bossenstein Golf & Polo Club or book a room at the Bossenstein hotel. I am sure you can walk around the golf court freely then and take some photos of the castle.

how to get there

You can park your car at the Bossenstein Golf & Polo Club or at the restaurant Afspanning Den Moor. By bike you will find the Bistweg between bicycle junctions 64 and 85.

Location: Moorstraat 14, 2520 Broechem (Ranst)

De Borrekens, Vorselaar, one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium

HISTORY

During the Roman period a villa was located here. But information about this is hard to find. It is more than likely that the castle of Vorselaar originated in the early Middle Ages as a fortified fortress to protect the people of the Glory from outside raids. During that time vikings invaded the region. At the end of the 13th century the lord of Vorselaar built the moated castle. He started to dig moats, so the enemy could be kept at a distance. But soon the realization came that wooden fences aren’t resistant to fire, so they built the first tower in stone in 1356. Not much information about the further development is known. The floor plan of the castle stayed the same, but the castle needed reconstruction multiple times throughout the years. The French garden dates from 1911.

how to visit & take photos

Like a lot of castles in Belgium, you can’t access the property and it is difficult to see, but you can walk to one spot where there is an opening in the rhododendron bushes surrounding the castle’s vests. From here you can take photos of the fortress or sit on the tree trunk to admire the castle. I think the best time to visit is in May. Then the rhododendron bushes are in full bloom and it is simply stunning to see the pink/purple flowers being reflected in the water.
Around the castle you will also find a forest where you can take nice walks.

how to get there

It is probably best to park your car in the center of Vorselaar and walk up to the castle via the Lindendreef. By bike you ride to bicycle junction 1 and enter the Lindendreef from the northside.

Location: Vispluk 3, 2290 Vorselaar

Zellaer, Bonheiden

HISTORY

Its history goes back to the 13th century like many of the previously mentioned castles. Back then there was a moated fortress at the spot where the current castle is situated. Many clergy and mayors used to live here and several different castles were constructed and destroyed on this spot. The current castle is a neo-gothic moated castle built in 1885. Since 2017 it is owned by Kempens Landschap, a non-profit organization that restores historical landscapes and nature reserves.

fun factS

• It is said that the castle is a smaller copy of a castle situated in the Loire region. But until now there is no proof of that.
• In 1884 the family d’Udekem d’Acoz became owner of the castle. This is the family of the current Belgian queen Mathilde.
• According to an elderly man I encountered at the park, a cult used to be housed here. The first daughters of rich families were brought there to join the cult.

how to visit & take photos

The castle’s domain is always accessible to walkers and cyclists. But it isn’t advised to visit after nightfall or during stormy weather. You can easily access the park via the gate and walk all around the castle to admire it from all angles! If you would like to visit the castle’s interior, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee of 4€ per person and book 14 days in advance via gidsen@kasteelzellaer.be.

how to get there

You can easily park your car on the domain’s parking lot. By bike you will find the castle near bicycle junction 44.

Location: Zellaerdreef 1, 2820 Bonheiden

Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde, Bornem

HISTORY

The story of this castle is undeniably linked to the presence of the river Scheldt and starts with the Roman period. In those days a watchtower was built on the Scheldt on the site of the current castle site. During the 9th and 10th centuries, a feudal castle was founded as a defense against the incursions of the Normans. Some foundations and wall parts from the 11th century have been preserved. Afterwards, the building served as the residence of the lords of Bornem.  

When the Scheldt river bed moved, the strategic importance of the castle decreased and the center of the municipality was no longer accessible along the water. With the arrival of the Spanish nobleman Pedro Coloma, who bought the domain in 1586, a new chapter began for the history of Bornem and that of the castle. During the 17th century, the new Renaissance castle suffered greatly from war violence. The old central castle tower was demolished in 1687.

The domain has been owned by the de Marnix family since 1780. Count Ferdinand Jozef had the ruined castle of Pedro Coloma demolished in 1880. Hendrik Beyaert made plans for the complete renovation of the castle with outbuildings. In 1894 the current massive-looking castle was rebuilt, which is double-moated and connects to the Gothic Revival. The access bridge with two watchtowers dates from 1895.

how to visit & take photos

This is definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium, but you can only visit it with an appointment from mid-April to October. Without an appointment, the castle is only open on August 15, the last 2 Sundays of August and the 2 first Sundays of September from 1.30 pm. You can find the contact details here.

There is a viewpoint on the other side of the river. It can be found across the houses on Binnendijkstraat 28. If you follow the path and pass the small tiny green fence (there is a hole in the bushes) you will find a few jetties from where you can take photos from the castle by the water. Someone told me it is private property though, so if you go it is at your own risk.

how to get there

You can park your car at the parking lot in front of the castle’s domain. By bike you ride to bicycle junction 40 which is situated near the beginning of the castle’s lane.

Location: Kasteelstraat 34, 2880 Bornem

Cantecroy, Mortsel

History

Cantecroy is one of the oldest castles in Belgium. The first record of the castle dates back from 869 as part of the property of Lobbes Abbey in Thuin. Many lords of Cantecroy influenced politics during their time. Famous and infamous people stayed in the castle like the first archbishop of Mechelen,

The castle’s oldest parts go back to the 13th and 14th century. The little chapel dates from the 15th century and the current facade dates back from the end of the 17th century. You can still see a pillory.

Now the castle houses apartments, a restaurant, a wellness center, meeting rooms and a care center.

Fun fact

Albert Einstein stayed here while he was on the run from the rising anti-Semitism in Germany, before he could get a visa for the United States.

how to visit & take photos

You can enter the domain freely to take photos as long as you don’t enter the private areas.

how to get there

You can park your car on the castle’s domain. By bike you ride to bicycle junction 55 which is situated next to the castle.

Location: Cantecroylaan 30, 2640 Mortsel

Castle Ter Elst, Duffel

History

This is one of the oldest medieval castles in Antwerp. In 1356 the abbey of Tongerlo became the owner. From then Ter Elst was turned into a beautiful fortress where famous guests such as Margaret of York and Philip The Fair stayed. In the 17th century it used to be a rectory, but in 1799 the castle was occupied and sold by the French. In the 19th century the domain turned into an industrial zone. It became a brickyard until WWI. After heavy damages in 1914 the castle continued to deteriorate. In 1972 the municipality of Duffel bought the ruins.

How to visit & take photos

The ruins, which are surrounded by a moat, are still under serious renovations. So you cannot visit the island on which the ruins are situated. But you can walk around the islet to have a good look from all sides. This is definitely a quiet and off the beaten path place in Belgium where you can just sit back and relax with a picnic.

Since the ruins are situated next to the river Nete, its surroundings offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy a nice walk or bike tour by the river!

How to get there

There are parking lots next to the Ter Elst park. By bike you will encounter the castle between bike junctions 56 and 66.

Location: Ter Elstlei, 2570 Duffel

Het Steen, Antwerp

History

In the 9th century, the first settlement with earthen walls appeared on the Yard, the former peninsula. That is where the fortress originated from. Between 1200 and 1225 a stone castle wall and Het Steen, one of the three gatehouses of the castle, were built here. You could find a court here, a fish market, a church…

Around 1520, during the age of Charles V, the gatehouse knew some serious renovation, which you can still see by the difference of color in the facade. In 1549 Charles V donated the castle to the city. Het Steen served as a prison from 1303 until 1823.

In 1880 a large part of the fortress was demolished when the quays were straightened and the Scheldt widened because of this. Nevertheless, in 1889-1890 a new wing was built and other parts of the castle were renovated. In 1864 it became a museum; first an archaeoligical museum, in 1952 a national maritime museum.

The interior closed to the public at the end of 2008. Currently Het Steen is under some serious reconstruction to become a tourist center.

fun fact

According to the Antwerp folklore the giants Antigoon and Lange Wapper used to live at Het Steen.
In front of Het Steen you will find the statue of Lange Wapper (Long Flag). He is one of the most famous figures of the Antwerp legends.
He was born out of a garden parsley and a red cabbage in a farmer’s bed. (How do people make this stuff up???) As he grew up the boy helped persons in need. One day he saved an old woman who was thrown into the river Scheldt by a youth gang. The old woman thanked the man by giving him some gifts such as the ability to shapeshift & to make himself so tall he could move from one town to another with a single giant leap. As he preferred to be in his tall size, he got the nickname Lange Wapper. The man turned into a water sprite who liked to live near the sea, near rivers or canals. Since then, Lange Wapper used tricks to approach women to get their breast milk. He teased drunks, cheated whilst playing with children and laughed like the devil.

how to visit & take photos

These days Het Steen is the Visitor Center of Antwerp where you can find all the necessary information about Antwerp city, book tickets or city tours, buy souvenirs or local products and gadgets. You can visit The Antwerp Story, a trail leading you through different chambers to get to know the story of Antwerp city and you can climb the tower to enjoy magnificent views of the city from the rooftop terrace.

how to get there

It is situated by the river Scheldt in the center of Antwerp, so it is not hard to find. I advise to park your car outside of the city and take public transport (the tram) to reach the city center, because traffic in Antwerp is crazy busy and you will get there faster this way.
If you go by bike you will find the castle between bicycle junctions 57 and 56.

Location: Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerp (in the city center)

Enchanting castles in East Flanders

Wissekerke, Bazel (Kruibeke)

History

In the 10th century you could find a fortress here, which was part of the reinforcement belt on the Scheldt bank (other castles in Kruibeke, Rupelmonde, Temse). In 1238 the owner laid the foundations of the new fortified castle. But about 350 years later the castle burned out. Through the years the owners rebuilt and renovated the castle multiple times. Originally water surrounded the complete castle, but since 1803 there is an earth dam up to the north side. In 1811 the castle got its current look and it became one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium!

folklore

During the age of Mercator the count and countess Van Bottelsberghe lived in the castle. The count was the councilor of Charles the emperor and guardian of his lions. These lions were shown to the visitors of the emperor. The lions were housed in the basement beneath the Pigeon Tower. Between the tower and the current restaurant there was a shallow hallway covered with bars. The lions used this hallway to get their food at the lion’s den while the people could watch them as entertainment.

how to visit & take photos

I don’t think the main entrance is always open during the early or late hours. I entered the park via a small narrow bridge on the east side of the park. From there you immediately get a fantastic view of the castle in the pond and you can take beautiful photos from the east side of the castle. After crossing another bridge, you can also take photos from the southside. But watch your step, because the lawn is covered in all different kinds of … shit! 

Take your time to walk around the castle and observe the water birds. I went there in May so there were a lot of little ducklings. But I also saw a white swan fight a goose!

Currently you can visit the castle’s interior for free, but you need to make a reservation via +32 3 740 04 00 (due to Covid-19 restrictions you can only visit the ground floor, if you would like to visit upstairs you will need to make an appointment).

how to get there

Bicycle junction 72 lies east from the park, so it is easy to find. By car you can park at one of the parking lots nearby at Beekdam or at the Dorpstraat.

Location: Lange gaanweg 2-4, 9150 Kruibeke

Hof Ter Saksen, Haasdonk

History

The first version of the castle was built in the middle ages. It used to serve as agricultural exploitation and as an inn since it was situated near the road connecting Antwerp and Ghent. It wasn’t until 1781 that the old buildings got demolished. Around 1804 the new castle was constructed in neoclassical style as a house of plaisance. In 1812 the beautiful orangery and lease farm were added. In 1982 the property got sold to the municipality of Beveren who turned the domain into a beautiful public park.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the tower in the back of the castle has the same height as the Saint Jacob church tower of Haasdonk? The notorious freemason and anticlerical Jan-Baptiste Versmessen wanted to impress the catholic community with this. It is unusual that a castle’s highest tower is situated in the back.

How to visit & take photos

I visited the castle and its park on a sunny day, which is ideal. That way you can enjoy the beautiful park and enjoy a drink at the Orangery next to the castle. Not only does the white castle look romantic, also the building at the entrance looks stunning and offers great photo opportunities! There is also a beautiful flower garden! The entrance is free and the park opens at 10.00 am. During Summer you can visit until 8 pm, but in the Winter the park closes at 4.30 pm.

How to get there

You can easily park your car in the parking lot at the entrance. By bike you’ll have to ride to bike junction number 4.

Location: Hof ter Saksendreef 2, 9120 Haasdonk

Cortewalle, Beveren

History

The oldest part of Cortewalle dates from the beginning of the 15th century. It used to be a country residence to the Vijd family, who lived in Ghent. The southern wing of the castle was already constructed before 1441. Around 1591 the northern wing was finished and within the next 50 years the two parts got connected with each other by other buildings. The castle was owned by several noble families, but in 1966 it became the property of the town Beveren.

Fun Fact

It was Joost Vijd, the castle’s second owner, who ordered the famous retable “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” of the brothers Van Eyck for his chapel in the Saint John’s church (currently the Saint Bavo cathedral in Ghent).

How to visit & take photos

You will find this beautiful moated castle not too far from Hof Ter Saksen, in the center of Beveren. So it is easy to visit them both on the same day. Cortewalle is also situated in a public park. In the 18th century coach house with orangery there is a restaurant with a nice terrace with a view on the castle. Here you can sit and relax while sipping on a Belgian beer. You can walk all around the castle or have a picnic in the grass. Just watch out for a lot of immense bird poop, since there are a quite a few water birds over here!

You can visit the castle daily in group (reservations need to be made at the tourism bureau). If you want to visit individually you can visit the castle every first Sunday of the month from May till September at 3 pm.

How to get there

There is a big parking lot (Essendreef) on the other side of the street. By bike you will ride through the park between bike junctions 7 and 50.

Location: Zwarte Dreef 2, 9120 Beveren

Gravensteen, Gent

history

The first fortification was built in the middle of the 9th century as a defense against the looting Norsemen. In the 11th century the central timber construction was replaced by a large stone keep with 3 floors. Later a moth castle was created with a characteristic upper court and forecourt. In 1176 the castle burned down and a new one was built, which is still the current version (with a lot of renovations of course). It became the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353 and then it was re-purposed as a court, prison, mint, a cotton factory and now a museum.

fun facT

On November 16, 1949 the castle was occupied by students from Ghent to protest against the beer price increase. They also didn’t like that the white police helmets would be replaced by blue hats, because it would be harder to recognize them (mailmen and taxi drivers also had blue hats). Witnesses have told that it was actually a student prank. The police, fire brigade and the gendarmerie were called to free the castle from the protesters. This is still referred to as “the biggest student prank in history” and every year it gets celebrated by students!

how to visit & take photos

When you are going to Ghent a trip to the Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) is an absolute must! You can visit the gatehouse, the ramparts, the keep, the count’s residence and the stables and there is a huge collection of torture equipment. You can book your tickets here.

If you are short in time you can easily admire the castle from the outside. The best view points to get a good look at the castle (and to take photos) are the Sint-Widostraat, Geldmunt, Hoofdbrug and the Sint-Veerleplein.

how to get there

The Gravensteen is situated in the city center of Ghent. I don’t recommend driving a car in the city center. There are a lot of one way streets, car free streets and a lot of people get fined because it is not always clear. Ghent’s city center is easy to reach by foot or by tram from the train station (Gent-Dampoort or Gent-Sint-Pieters). Bike junction number 4 is the nearest to the castle.

Location: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent

Graventoren, Rupelmonde

History

In the 12th century amoated castle was built to protect the river Schelde from intruders and attackers. During centuries the owners kept expanding the castle. Until 1647 the castle served as a state prison, but after that the castle started to be demolished more and more due to the battle of Spain and the United Provinces against France. The local population used its remains to build houses and the local church. The Graventoren is the only tower remaining of what once was a moated castle with 17 towers! But I added it to the list of beautiful castles in Belgium, since it is an enchanting tower and using a little imagination does not hurt anybody!

Fun Fact

Mercator, the famous geographer and cartographer from the 16th century, born in Rupelmonde, spent 7 months in its dungeons on charges of heresy!

How to visit & take photos

You can walk around the tower freely. You can climb the Graventoren to get a fantastic view of its surroundings and in the basement you’ll find an exposition about the castle it once took part of. the tower is currently closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. Once it is over you can plan a visit here.

How to get there

There is a parking lot next to the tower. By bike you’ll find the tower between bike junctions 86 and 72.

Location: Dijkstraat 8, 9150 Kruibeke

Wonderful castles in West Flanders (coming soon)

COMING SOON

Gorgeous castles in Limburg

Alden Biesen

History

Alden Biesen was founded in 1220 by the Teutonic knights after the Count of Loon granted them some land between Bilzen and Rijkhoven. But the current buildings were constructed between the 16th and 18th century. Besides the castle there is also a church, a gallery, an orangery and several other side buildings, as well as beautiful French-style gardens. The Grand Commandery had an economical, religious and cultural importance during the first 600 years. Which still applies today. After the French Revolution it became private property. The castle today is used as a cultural center and conference center of the Flemish Community.

Fun Fact

It is said to be the largest castle between France’s Loire River and the Rhine River.

How to visit & take photos

This is definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium and the best news is that its domain is free to enter. The castle is surrounded by beautiful French gardens and orchards, which offer plenty of photo opportunities. The best time to visit is spring when the blossoms are in full bloom and you’ll find many tulips in the French garden. Another fun part is the boardwalk leading through several fruit trees (read: more blossoms!) It is the perfect place to have a picnic or go for an easy stroll.

How to get there

The castle is easy to reach by car. Just take exit 31 on the E313 and follow the signs. In front of the castle you’ll find a big parking lot. The train station is 5 km from the castle and is only connected with an on-call bus which you need to book in advance via De Lijn. There are biking routes that lead to the castle. The nearest bicycle junction is number 68.

Location: Kasteelstraat 6, 3740 Bilzen

Exquisite castles in Flemish Brabant

Castle of Groot-Bijgaarden, Dilbeek

History

The original castle dates from around 1110. It was a typical plain castle with deep moats. The present castle originates from the 14th and 17th century. The Donjon, built around 1347, is a 30 meter high structure next to the fortified entrance. The tower has four floors and the walls have a thickness of two meters. The castle itself was built in the 17th century and is a great example of the Flemish Renaissance style.

How to visit & take photos

The castle of Groot Bijgaarden is private property, like many castles in Belgium, but every year in April it opens its gardens for  a real spring flower exposition with basically all existing spring bulb flowers! Most flowers are tulips, with almost 400 varieties, but also hyacinths and daffodils can be admired here! Over one million flowers are planted in the park. I visited the park mid April in the morning during the week and it was not too crowded, so it was easy to take beautiful photos and enjoy a nice stroll amidst the many flowers. The five-arch moat bridge is accessible all year round.

How to get there

There is a big parking lot in front of the castles so it easy to visit by car. If you want to go by bike; the castle is situated between bicycle junctions 81 and 82.

Location: Isidoor van Beverenstraat 5, 1702 Dilbeek

Horst Castle, Holsbeek

History

The castle’s history dates back to the 13th century when the family Van Horst lived here in an estate. It was destroyed during the uprising of 1488-1489 against Maximilian of Austria. But the owner rebuilt it.

At the end of the 15th century, the square keep, the auditorium and the camera were also built, which still exist today. Mid 16th century large cross windows were installed on the moat side, so the castle lost its fortified character and was destroyed by the “geuzen” (Calvinist Dutch nobles who opposed Spanish rule in the Netherlands) in 1587. In the 17th century the two western wings and the chapel were added.

Nowadays the castle is managed by a monumental organisation. Every year castle festivities are organised with staged knight games.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the castle of Horst is also the home of the Red Knight, the comic-book character of Willy Vandersteen?
This castle is also special because it didn’t get renovated or rebuilt in the 18th/19th century. It is still in the same state as in 1658! Which is rare in Flanders! So this is a truly unique castle in Belgium!

How to visit & take photoS

The castle is situated in a park at Sint-Pieters-Rode (Holsbeek). It seems that families and groups of teenagers love to come here to have a picnic and I can’t blame them! It is the perfect spot to hang out and relax! The castle is surrounded by a wide moat and a big fish pond. There is a wooden path over the water where you can sit and take photos, but make sure to take a walk around the pond and the castle to get different views of the castle. There are a lot of giant fish in the pond and I am not sure whether this was normal, but when I was there a lot of fish were swimming at the surface or laying still in the water (It was hot during that time).
The domain is always open, but to visit the castle make sure to check the castle’s website!

How to get there

There is a big parking lot at the entrance. By bike you need to ride to bike junction number 65.

Location: Horststraat 28, 3220 Holsbeek

Beautiful castles in Belgium: Wallonia

Magnificent castles in Walloon Brabant

Castle of La Hulpe, Domaine Solvay, La Hulpe

History

This is a rather “young” castle, built on top of a hill in 1842 in Flemish neo renaissance style on behalf of marquis Maximilien de Béthune. From 1871 until 1893 it was owned by baron Antoine de Roest d’Alkemade. After that the industrialist Ernest Solvay, the founder of the international company Solvay, bought the domain to turn it into his Summer residence. He hired Victor Hugo for the interior decoration and he expanded the domain. In the next years his family hired architects to change the castle and expand the domain even more. A French garden was created next to the castle. To protect the domain it was donated in 1968 to the Belgian government on condition that it would be preserved in its entirety.

Fun Fact

The castle’s architecture is inspired by the Loire castles.
You can find a lot of exotic plants on the domain, which were planted by Ernest Solvay.

How to visit & take photoS

This Belgian castle is situated in one of the most beautiful parks I ever visited. The domain is massive and consists of various ponds filled with huge fish and cute turtles, beautiful lawns to picnic and lush woods. The castle itself also has a garden which seems to come right out of a fairy tale! I felt like Alice in Wonderland here, but instead of a rabbit I found a chipmunk running around! So take your time, not only to admire the castle, but also to enjoy the domain! Because it is really worth exploring!

How to get there

I parked the car near the entrance at the Chaussée de Bruxelles, but the domain is also reachable by bus (line 366) from Brussels (Ixelles). If you are from the neighborhood or if you are renting a bike, you will need to go to bike junction number 4.

Location: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe

Dazzling castles in Hainaut (coming soon)

COMING SOON

Stunning castles in Namur

Château de Corroy-Le-Château

history

The castle of Corroy-le-Château is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Belgium, built in 1270 by Count de Vianden. The castle was never sold, simply passed down by direct affiliation. There is one exception after a family dispute in 2008, when the castle got sold at a public auction. But the marquis Olivier de Trazegnies made a counter offer to get his castle back. The Marquis de Trazegnies, descendant of the architect and heir to the Orbais, Brabant, Vianden, Sponheim, Bavière and Nassau families, still lives here.

Fun Fact

Even though this is one of the lesser known castles in Belgium, it was used as a shooting location in the series “Thieves of the Wood” (De Bende van Jan de Lichte). I only discovered this while watching the series and recognizing the castle immediately!

how to visit & take photos

It is not clear when the castle will be open for visits because their website is not up to date, so I advise to check their website (only in French) or e-mail them. The gate to the domain is usually open though, so you can admire its towers, gate and bridge from the outside. I went there at sunrise. It was absolutely magical to see the sun rise from behind the castle.

how to get there

You can park near the entrance gate next to the farm. (bike routes are still a work in progress in Wallonia, so currently there are no official bike junctions/routes in this part of the country).

Location: Rue du Château de Corroy 4, 5032 Gembloux

Château de Walzin, Dinant

history

Walzin castle was built in the 13th century. Even though this castle was burned down by the French in 1554, the 15th century horseshoe tower still exists! This is the master tower where they kept the artillery. The quadrangular keep in the South wing dates back from the 16th century. The rest of the building has been altered significantly, particularly between 1930 and 1932. The option chosen was to adopt a traditional style of architecture and aim for stylistic consistency.

fun facT

The castle housed William I de La Marck, also known as the Wild Boar of the Ardennes because he was as fierce as his favorite hunting prey.

how to visit & take photos

Château de Walzin isn’t a castle you can visit, but you can admire it from the outside and how! It is probably one of the most dramatic scenic castle views in Belgium, since this castle is built on the cliffs next to the river Lesse. Near the castle, at the end of the street called Pont-à-Lesse starts a hike that will lead you across a bridge. Follow the river and you will reach a view point offering a splendid view of the castle on the rocks.

There is another “hidden” castle view point of which I can’t give you the exact location, since it is actually on private property. But it is easy to find if you use Google Satellite view. When I arrived there, locals were having a beer on the rocks. Going there is at your own risk!

how to get there

Park your car at the parking lot next to the castle and the river at the end of the street called Pont-à-Lesse. From there the hike to the view point starts.

Location: Rue de Walzin 1, 5500 Dinant

Château de Vêves, Houyet

history

In the 7th century hofmeier Pepijn van Herstal built a villa on this spot. This fortification was expanded by his successors and then passed on to the lords of Celles. In 1200 the castle burned down, but it was rebuilt in 1230. After a new destruction by the people from Dinant it needed to be rebuilt again in 1410.

The castle kept its military function until the end of the Middle Ages and was then rebuilt in the Renaissance and in later centuries. Battlements disappeared, gabled roofs were added and loopholes were enlarged to form windows.

During the French Revolution in 1793 the castle suffered new damage, which was repaired by the owners de Liedekerke de Beaufort. Count Hadelin de Liedekerke Beaufort, a prominent politician, was the last of the family to effectively inhabit the castle. However, his son and grandson kept it going. The latter set up a non-profit organization to open the castle to the public, which was realized after a restoration campaign in 1969-1979.

fun factS

In 1609, the Baron of Celles placed a pottery statue of Mary, which was found in an oak by a woodcutter, in the castle chapel of Vêves. It attracted pilgrims, after which the lords of the castle placed it in a new church on the site of the oak, the Église Notre-Dame de Foy in Foy-Notre-Dame.

In Mini-Europe, a miniature park in Brussels, Vêves is one of the eleven Belgian models.

how to visit & take photos

I loved admiring the castle from the outside because it looks like a small version of Hogwarts with its 6 round castle towers on the rocky hill. Especially when you see it appearing from behind the trees while driving the N910 (Rue du Pîrli). So make sure to walk down that street to discover views of the castle on the hill and some cute houses! The rainy moody weather of the day I visited gave it an extra mysterious look. Unfortunately it was still closed thanks to Covid-19 restrictions when I was there. I will have to come back to be able to visit the castle’s grounds and interior! You can book your tickets here.

how to get there

Since the castle is a tourist attraction, there is a parking lot in front of the castle.

Location: Rue de Furfooz 3, 5561 Houyet

Château de Freÿr, Hastière

History

Freÿr castle dates back from the 14th century but got destroyed in 1554 by the French, just like Château Walzin. In the beginning of the 17th century a new castle got constructed in Renaissance style with two gorgeous gardens.

Mid 18th century the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin became the owners, who used the castle as a summer residence. They redesigned the gardens in classical style. Over 20 generations lived here and they had famous visitors such as Louis XIV, the Sun King and Maria-Christina of Austria.

Currently Freÿr castle is still inhabited by the heirs of the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin, the families of Baron Bonaert and the Count of Laubespin.

Fun FactS

The orange trees in the garden are now nearly 350 years old. In the wintertime they are kept in the oldest orangeries in the Low Countries. They are the oldest orange trees in cases in Europe.
In Belgium, coffee was drunk for the first time at the castle in 1675, during the signing of the Treaty of Freÿr in the castle.

How to visit & take photos

You can visit the interior with its many furnitured rooms, such as the dining room, the Louis XIV room with a four poster bed and an impressive fire place and a Rococo chapel. Also fascinating; a special children’s carriage that used to be drawn by a sheep.

The garden is worth a visit too! It was inspired by André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect of Versailles. The garden contains a maze of 6 kilometers, which must have offered a lot of secret flirtation possibilities, and orange trees of over 300 years old! You can hear the sound of the fountains throughout the whole garden. I could imagine elegant ladies in their long gowns and cute sun umbrellas walking here!

Across the river there is a viewpoint where you have a fantastic view of the castle and its gardens from up above. So make sure to make a stop there as well!

Reservation is needed to visit the castle.

How to get there

The castle has a big parking lot where you can easily park your car. There is also parking at the viewpoint.

Location: castle: Freyr 12, 5540 Hastière / viewpoint: Avenue Général Hodges 49, 5500 Dinant

Château de Bioul

History

Château de Bioul is one of the few wine castles in Belgium. It dates from the 11th century and knew a lot of misfortune. It witnessed many wars and got burned down by the French in 1554 (the French sure were busy in that region that year!). Afterwards the Brandenburg family turned the historical feudal castle into a prestigious mansion. A few centuries later, in 1896, it became property of the Vaxelaire family who founded the department stores “Au bon marché”.

Fun Fact

The owners of the castle run a wine business and they only use biological products and music in their wine process! They have a whole music repertoire for each phase in the wine making process. According to the theory of Prof. Masuro Emoto music influences the wine. It keeps the wine residue floating longer in the wine barrels, which gives the wine more richness.

How to visit & take photos

The castle domain contains 11 hectares of vines! Inside the castle you can visit the museum which shows the castle’s history and the techniques they use to produce wine. After visiting the museum you can join a wine tasting or have lunch and explore the castle’s domain with its vineyards. Even in the pouring rain I found it very relaxing to walk in between the vines. You can also organize an event here or stay at the castle! They have 12 rooms.

The castle is open during the week from 9am to 5pm and closed during the weekend. Check the castle’s website for more information.

How to get there

In front of the castle is the town’s square where you can park your car.

Location: Pl. de Vaxelaire, 5537 Bioul

Château Fort de Montaigle, Onhaye

History

Montaigle castle started as a military garrison at the end of the Roman era and became a medieval fortress at the beginning of the 14th century. In the 15th century Montaigle was a comfortable residence with several floors and cellars, big windows… At that time Montaigle was the capital of one of the nine bailiwicks in the County (administrative and judicial districts).

Unfortunately also Montaigle got burned down by the French in 1554. Since the loss of its strategic interest, the castle never got reconstructed. But it seems that there were still people living in certain parts of the castle until the beginning of the 19th century.

Fun Fact

According to a legend the lord of the castle would be hanged during a siege. But his wife was allowed to leave the fortress with her most precious possession. She left the castle with a bundle of branches on her back. As soon as she was out of sight, her husband emerged from the bundle, her most precious possession. Right before they left the castle, they hid a treasure inside the castle, which is said to be still there!

How to visit & take photos

When you walk towards the castle’s ruins, you’ll already get some magnificent views of the castle on top of the hill. At the ticket office you will receive a little map of the castle with its history. Make sure to read it and take a look at the map so you can imagine what each place must have been like. I loved fantasizing about this place while exploring it. The views from the top of the ruins are incredible!

How to get there

I parked my car at the Rue du Marteau, but if you can’t find a parking space; there is a parking lot a little further across the Italian restaurant. From the Rue du Marteau you follow the path to the ruins.

Location: parking at Rue de Warnant 4, 5522 Onhaye

Château de Lavaux Sainte Anne, Rochefort

history

In 1244 the castle simply consisted of a tower to monitor the Roman road. Later, in 1450, Jean II de Berlo builds a fortress with three great towers connected by curtain walls. 14 years later the fortress is besieged by a force from Dinant and in 1500 a fourth towers is added. In 1634 the owner De Rouveroir converts the fortress into a Renaissance-style dwelling and expands his land to built farms. In 1933 the castle is in ruins and gets donated to a non-profit organisation created by baroness Lemonnier, who fully finances the restoration of the site. Three years later the castle is open to the public.

fun facT

On 16 November 2002, famous tennis player Justine Henin married Pierre-Yves Hardenne in this castle.

how to visit & take photos

To get a good look at this castle in Belgium you need to access it. The castle houses 3 museums with 32 furnitured rooms; one that shows the life of the lords, one that showcases the more rural life and a nature and hunting museum. I loved the first 2 museums. It was interesting to see how people lived back in those days and which tools they used. It was also a little spooky, because they play sounds of people living there in the rooms as well. So in the kitchen you could hear pots and pans and at the room of the duchess you could hear her walking around on her heels. Which creeped me out a little, because I was there all by myself (I know I should stop watching that many horror movies). But it surely helped to get a real feel of the castle!

The hunting museum to me felt more like a house of terror. So many dead stuffed animals and traps and guns! It made me feel a little uncomfortable.
But it is certain that the castle owners also truly care about nature. Because next to the castle they maintain a “humid zone” that you can visit as well. It is a beautiful area with ponds and reedbeds, gorgeous wild flowers and animals I heard fleeing away, but didn’t get to see!

Children can dress up as princess or knight while visiting! Tickets can be purchased here.

how to get there

The castle is easy to access with a huge parking lot next to it.

Location: Rue du Château 8, 5580 Rochefort

Château de Faulx-Les-Tombes

History

There is not a lot of information to be found online, but the first version of the castle was built in the 13th century. In 1872 the present castle in Gothic revival style was constructed, but it got seriously damaged due to a fire in 1961. The town Etterbeek became owner of the castle in 1970 and it became private property.

How to visit & take photoS

Since it is a private castle, you cannot access its property. You can have a look at it from the road though.

How to get there

Across the street there is a parking lot of the horse riding school where you can park your car.

Location: Chaussée de Gramptinne 51, 5340 Gesves

Carondelet Castle, Crupet

History

This is another castle of Belgium of which the history seems to be quite hidden. Not much can be found about it. It is presumed that it started as a fortified country house built by the Crupet family around 1315 and that the Carondelet family lived there from 1510 until the French Revolution, transforming it into a Renaissance castle, adding a stair tower and the upper floor. But it is unknown why the castle changed owner. You can still admire the coat of arms of the Carondelet family above the entrance to the gatehouse. In 1925 the Limbosch family became owner of the castle until 2008. Recently the castle was bought by a Dutchman who renovated the castle domain.

How to visit & take photos

Carondelet castle is situated in Crupet, one of the 31 most beautiful villages in Wallonia. It looks totally different from the other castles since it is more a medieval moated donjon than a real castle. The castle is surrounded by a pond which gives it an extra fairy-tale-like look. You won’t be able to enter the domain, but you can admire it easily from the street! Don’t forget to also check out the village with its Grotte Saint Antoine De Padoue.

How to get there

You can park your car in the village. It is very small so you won’t have to walk too far.

Location: Rue Basse 27, 5332 Assesse

Spontin Castle

History

Spontin castle is one of those typical medieval castles with its massive walls, towers crowned with slate roofs and its moat with drawbridge. The main tower was built by Pierre de Beaufort on a small island in the Bocq river in the 13th century, which turned out to be the core of the future fortification.

After winning one of the bloodiest medieval battles in history called the Battle of Woeringen his son Willem became owner of Spontin castle. He turned the defensive tower into a 3-storey fortified residence with thicker walls and added 2 small defensive towers with drawbridges. From then on the castle got reconstructed and expanded several times. After the invention of gunpowder the fortifications became rather pointless, so windows and roofs on the towers were added, turning the fortress into a more fancy residence. The farm now houses the tourist facilities.

Fun Fact

Through centuries many tried, but not a single army ever succeeded in invading the castle!

How to visit & take photoS

The castle is currently closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. But you can still have a look at the castle from the street and the park next to it.

How to get there

You can easily park at Spontin’s train station across the street.

Location: Chaussée de Dinant 16, 5530 Yvoir

Leignon Castle

History

The castle of Leignon is a rather new castle since it was built in the 19th century. When a Belgian diplomat and photographer bought the castle in 1890, he asked architect Auguste Van Assche to design a new castle around the old structure, which is the castle you can still see today in neo-Gothic style.

Fun Fact

The castle is built using the analogy of a calendar; there are 365 windows (days), 52 rooms (weeks), 12 staircases (months) and 4 towers (seasons).

How to visit & take photoS

Leignon castle is also called the “Castle with a 1000 Windows”. Which sounds super dreamy, but unfortunately you can’t visit it, because it is private! That doesn’t mean you can’t admire it though! It is situated next to a cemetery. From the cemetery you already get some nice views of the castle. Unfortunately the castle’s entrance has a huge closed gate, so you can’t peek through the gate either (what do they have to hide, I wonder?). What I did do is put my phone through a narrow crack to take a quick a photo. (I can be pretty persistent)

Not only is this one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium. Also its surrounding little town is worth exploring. I thought it has some Outlander vibes. From the cemetery I had seen agricultural fields next to a road, so I decided to go to the fields as well. Because I was sure, if I could see those fields from up above, I would be able to see the castle from the fields too! That short walk didn’t disappoint, because from the fields you get to see the town including the church and castle!

How to get there

I parked my car at the parking lot of Leignon train station.

Location: Rue du Sacré-Coeur 50, Ciney

Château de Haltinne

History

The castle-farm of Haltinne was erected in Gérard de Groesbeeck’s fief of “the ditches” since 1635. Gérard de Mérode acquired the property, which was burned down in 1674 and rebuilt by Jean-Hubert de Tignée in 1684, before being sold to Goer de Herve, who owned it until 1814.

Two fires devastated the castle in the 17th century. When it was repaired, a new brick and stone edifice was erected, which was eventually expanded in the mid-nineteenth century. This extension depicts the transformation of the castle, which was mostly used for farming, into a leisure residence. The interior featured excellent ornamentation at the time (medallions, trophies, stucco, red marble, internal joinery, etc.).

Fun facts

The castle owns a staircase in the style of Louis XIII, which is particularly noteworthy in Wallonia for its use of bluestone, including bulbous balusters.
The wrought iron gate was originally intended for King Leopold II and the castle of Ciergnon.

How to visit & take photos

This is another castle in Belgium that is private property, so you cannot enter the domain, but you can walk around it and spot quite a lot of the castle and its beautiful gate! From 2025 you will be able to organize events and weddings here. They are also currently renovating the surrounding buildings, so you can book a stay in them. The Forge is already open for bookings.

How to get there

The castle is situated in the street and there is not much parking space. I encountered the castle while hiking the sentiers d’art.

Location: Rue de Haltinne 3-15, 5340 Gesves

Charming castles in Luxembourg

Château de Jemeppe aka Château d’Hargimont

history

This castle started as a fortified Roman villa (like many castles) and during medieval times it consisted out of various buildings surrounded by marshland and a river. In the beginning of the 13th century it became fortified and a donjon was constructed, protected by moats. In the 17th century it turned into a complete castle with additional living quarters.

how to visit & take photos

The private castle now is a restaurant and hotel, often used for events and seminaries. I wasn’t sure if it was OK to take photos there, so I just went to the reception and asked if I could enter the domain to take a few pics, which was no problem at all. In return I had a drink at the restaurant.

Book your stay at Château de Jemeppe here.

how to get there

In front of the castle is a big parking lot where you can park your car.

Location: Rue Félix Lefèvre 24, 6900 Hargimont

Château de Durbuy

history

Durbuy already existed in the prehistoric times, but the first signs of a castle date back from 900 A.D. In 1024 Henri I built a castle at the same site, but it was destroyed by a fire in 1156. Forty three years later the castle was rebuilt and was owned by the Luxembourg family. Like many castles in Belgium, it was looted and attacked many times and suffered damage throughout the years during civil wars. Eventually through inheritance the Counts of Ursel became owner and it was not until 1731 that the castle was reconstructed. At the end of the 19th century the castle was modernized. Currently the Count of Ursel lives here so it is a private residence which cannot be visited.

fun fact

During WW II Durbuy Castle was occupied by German forces and later by the Americans who used it as a military hospital.

how to visit & take photos

The castle can be admired from different angles while visiting Durbuy. I loved walking up to a view point northeast from the small town. You just walk up the stairs you’ll find at the big parking lot (at the east side of the town) and follow the path. I also advise to cross the Ourthe river to have a nice view of the castle by the river. The bridge next to the castle and the pedestrian bridge near La Ferme au Chêne offer the best views!

how to get there

Durbuy has a lot of parking lots, but keep in mind they are not free. Make sure to have some pocket money for the parking machines.

Location: Rue du Comte Théodule d’Ursel 2, 6940 Durbuy

Château de Petite Somme / Radhadesh, Durbuy

History

The oldest reference of Château de Petit-Somme is from the 11th century. Its owner, Gozelon de Montaiqude, was suspected of plundering the Abbey of Saint Hubert’s land. His widow donated the castle to the monks as penance after his death. A tower was erected to the castle in the early 14th century by Jean de Bohême. The Hamal family bought Petit-Somme Castle in 1461 and owned it until 1774. Then the castle was passed down through various aristocratic families until it was purchased by the Favereau family. After destroying the Hamal family mansion, Lord Charles de Favereau built a country home of bricks on its foundations. The original Petit-Somme castle was completely destroyed. Until 1877 it remained in the family’s possession.

The mansion was inherited in 1877 by Louise Marie Eulalie, who was related to Baron Victor Albert de Favereau. The new owners subsequently dismantled Charles de Favereau’s brick home and rebuilt the current castle in a neo-Gothic style in 1888. When the De Vaux family controlled the castle, it was used as a hospital during WWI. Parts of the castle’s outbuildings were destroyed. During World War II, the castle was taken by American forces during the Battle of the Bulge. Following WWII, the castle served for recreational purposes before being purchased by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in 1979. They renovated the castle and still own the place.

Fun Fact

Radhadesh combines a medieval castle with ancient Indian culture. It now actually is a guesthouse and an Indian spiritual center for those who want to escape the busy city life. While I was walking through its gardens, I saw and heard a lot of people meditating. They were al super nice by the way!
You can watch live broadcasting from the temple here!

How to visit & take photos

You can book a tour to explore the interior of the castle and discover the temple and the rooms. But when I was there, several people were sick with Covid-19 and it was closed. The domain and its gardens are always open though! So feel free to explore the outside and enjoy the beautiful views. Remember to be respectful towards the community and its people. Maybe you are not a believer and some things may seem silly to you, but to them it is serious and it is not something to ridicule.

How to get there

You can easily park near the church of Petite Somme, which is located right next to the castle.

Location: Petite Somme 5, 6940 Durbuy

Marvelous castles in Liège

Reinhardstein, Ovifat

History

The Reinhardstein castle was built by the Waimes family in 1354. Just like many castles in Belgium, after the French Revolution the castle was abandoned and started to deteriorate. In 1812 the castle was sold to a wrecker… He tore down the walls of the castle and sold its bricks to built houses in the neighborhood. The demolition was stopped in 1815, but the damage was done and all that was left was a ruin. After discovering the remains of the castle in 1965, a teacher from Brussels fell in love with it. He reconstructed Reinhardstein in less than 18 months.

Fun Fact

Next to the castle you will find Belgium’s highest waterfall; Cascade de Reinhardstein (60m).

How to visit & take photoS

I think Reinhardstein is one of the most fun castles in Belgium to explore. You can admire its exterior from up, close & personal for free by simply walking through its gate. If you want to have some fantastic views of the castle on the hill overlooking the Warche valley, you can hike to the waterfall by taking the path to the right when walking towards the castle (the waterfall is indicated with an arrow).

You can also visit the castle’s interior with a guide. You can book a tour on the castle’s website.

How to get there

At the end of the Chemin du Cheneux is a big parking lot to park your car. From there you have to walk about 500m until you reach the castle.

Location: Chemin du Cheneux 50, 4950 Ovifat

Manoir de Lébioles, Creppe

History

This is one of the “newer” castles in Belgium, being built between 1905 and 1910 by Georges Neyt. After his daughter sold the mansion to the Dresse family, the place became a location for prestigious events. In 1980 the Société Immobilière de Belgique became the new owner, but it got sold again a few months later to a family of hotelkeepers. Until 1999 the exclusive hotel knew a lot of success. Then it got sold again and the hotel suffered from a lot of misfortune and vandalism. After some serious renovations the castle now is a splendid luxurious first class hotel.

Fun Fact

Georges Neyt is said to be a natural son of King Leopold I. (He certainly is not the only illegitimate offspring of Belgium’s royal family)

How to visit & take photoS

Since it is a hotel and I wanted to respect the guests’ peace and quiet, I did not enter the property itself. I stayed on the lawn in front of it to take photos. But it surely is a place I am curious about and I would like to stay at!

Book your stay at Manoir de Lébioles here.

How to get there

You can park your car at the hotel’s parking lot.

Location: Domaine de Lébioles 1/5, 4900 Spa

Château de Modave aka Château des Comtes de Marchin

history

The castle dates from the medieval times, but the donjon is the only part left of that time. Mid 17th century the castle was renovated and turned from a medieval fortress into an elegant luxurious Baroque house of plaisance. In 1941 the castle was sold to the Compagnie Intercommunale Bruxelloise des Eaux (“Brussels Intercommunal Water Company”). The area is important for water extraction and the company is one of the most crucial water providors of Belgium.

fun fact

Each year for Christmas the castle is decorated by local florists and decorators so make sure to visit then if you are a sucker for Christmas!

how to visit & take photos

Modave castle is situated in a protected nature reserve that is one of the most important water providers of Belgium. It is built on a 60 meter high cliff and offers fantastic views of the valley of the Hoyoux river. It is impossible and forbidden though to go admire the castle from beneath (due to the reason mentioned above)!

Modave consists of 25 furnitured rooms, which you can visit with an audioguide that gives interesting info about the rooms, the furniture and the paintings you can find there. Inside you’ll encounter 17th century stuccowork on the ceilings, 18th and 19th century furniture, tapestries, paintings and magnificent chandeliers. I loved wandering around the castle fantasizing what it must’ve been like to live here or sleep in one of those princess beds.

The gardens are free to visit during the castle’s opening hours. Make sure to check out the view of the valley from the big terrace next to the castle. the castle is open for visitors from April 1st until November 15th. In December they organize a special Christmas exhibition.

how to get there

In front of the castle is a huge parking lot.

Location: Rue du Parc 4, 4577 Modave

MORE ABOUT BELGIUM:

• Most beautiful castles around Antwerp and where to find them
• The Ultimate Wallonia Road Trip: Chasing Castles & Fairy-tale Villages
• Hidden gems in Belgium: unique off the beaten path places you need to see
• Hiking in the Belgian Ardennes: 10 most beautiful walks you must do

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