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Pictogram identifying a member of the VISITWallonia.be Pass
  • Attractions
  • Châteaux
  • Museum or Interpretation Centre
  • Park (castles)
  • Park/garden
  • Architectural heritage

Distinguished by its famous checkerboard patterns on its walls, the castle is a stunning, rare example of Mosane Renaissance style from the mid-16th century. This impressive historical building, surrounded by moats, seems to appear as if by magic as you walk past the forest.

Renovations

While the castle itself is actually closed for renovations, visitors can walk along the scaffolding, encapsulating 1950 m² of façades or, even better, use a VR set to see how stunning the site is.

History

This is a fine example of a 16th century Meuse Renaissance-style building, with vaulted basements of the former keep going back to the late 13th century. In the 19th century the castle was extensively renovated and extended in a sober Gothic Revival style but after World War 2, when it was used as a hostel for displaced children of the Belgian Railway Workers, the building fell into disrepair. The chateau then passed into the ownership of Comte van de Steen who restored the interior using as far as possible original furniture and paintings.

The gardens

  • The Italian gardens and parks are little Edens with remarkable trees planted along lines of lime trees. Visitors can also admire copper sculptures and water features.
  • The former vegetable patch, first planted in the 19th century at the edge of the forest, was brought back to life. Now protected by a lovely brick wall, it stretches along a hectare and offers a delightful stroll along forgotten vegetables, edible flowers, fruit trees and delicate roses.
  • The garden also hides a former icehouse, built in the 19th century to collect ice during winter.
  • Don't miss the tree planted areas, featuring 15 protected trees
We do our best to keep you informed. It's best, however, to check the latest news with the attraction you are visiting, or operator you have booked an activity with. Read our travel advice.
This information is given for indication purposes only, best to check with the site you hope to visit before heading there - by phone, email, social media or simply by visiting their website.

Equipement

Shop - Car parking - Motor Home parking - Parking

Animals

Pets not allowed

VISITWallonia.be Pass

VISITWallonia.be Pass

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