Located in the heart of Westerlo, Merode Castle is deeply connected to the history of the region. Although it only became the property of the Merode family in the 15th century, the estate has embodied their heritage for centuries. Today, Prince Simon de Mérode and his family live here.

PRESENTATION

The castle has been in the Merode family since 1478, when the Council of Brabant officially granted it to Jan IV de Merode. Its current appearance is largely the result of renovations carried out under Jan-Philippe-Eugène de Merode (1674-1732), a prominent figure of his time, Grandee of Spain, Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece, and Field Marshal of the Austrian Imperial Army. He designed an extensive network of avenues and enhanced the castle, creating a truly majestic setting.

Located in Bruges, the Adornes Estate is a historical treasure founded in the 15th century by the Adorno family from Genoa. 

Today, it remains in the hands of Count and Countess Maximilien de Limburg Stirum, direct descendants of its founders.

PRESENTATION

This private estate consists of the Jerusalem Chapel, almshouses and a mansion with a vast adjacent garden. 

Consecrated in 1429, the chapel was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and is renowned for its distinctive architecture and unique decorations. 

Inside, visitors can admire remarkable paintings, sacred relics, and a crypt, as well as the impressive tomb of Anselm Adornes and his wife. 

An interactive museum, located within the former almshouses, vividly recounts the fascinating history of the Adornes family, with a special focus on Anselm Adornes—an influential merchant, diplomat, and knight. His travels, including a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, highlight his significant role in the commercial and political landscape of his time.

Nestled in a bend of the Lys River, just a few kilometers from Ghent, Ooidonk Castle is regarded as a gem of flamboyant Renaissance architecture. Surrounded by moats and lush gardens, it offers a haven of peace and serenity, despite its turbulent past.

PRESENTATION

In the 16th century, the castle belonged to Philip de Montmorency, Count of Horn, and an ally of William of Orange. After his execution in 1568, the castle suffered repeated destruction during the Wars of Religion. It was later rebuilt in Renaissance style by Maarten della Faille, a wealthy Antwerp merchant.

In 1864, Senator Henri t’Kint de Roodenbeke and his wife, Zoé de Naeyer purchased the estate. Today, 150 years later, their descendant, Count Henry t’Kint de Roodenbeke, still lives there.

Blanc Fixe is housed in the colour factory, a remarkable historic building in Drongen, on the outskirts of Ghent. This early 20th-century industrial site was once home to a renowned colour factory specialising in dyes. Today, it belongs to Stefanie De Graef, granddaughter of the founders, who has transformed it into a venue for cultural and private events. Founded in 1918 by Hilaire Grootaert and Alice Vandegehuchte, the factory quickly gained international recognition thanks to its signature product, Blanc-Fixe—a patented formula that brought worldwide fame. The company participated in several world exhibitions during the 1930s, including those in Antwerp, Brussels, and Liège. Following the end of production, Stefanie De Graef set out to preserve the site’s industrial heritage while giving it a new cultural purpose. Today, Blanc-Fixe blends history with creativity, offering a unique space for artistic expression and events.

One of Belgium’s best-preserved moated medieval castles, Laarne Castle has evolved into an elegant aristocratic summer residence. The Royal Association of Historic Houses and Gardens of Belgium owns the castle and is managed by the heritage organization Herita.

PRESENTATION

Dating back to the 13th century, Laarne Castle retains remarkable medieval features, including its round towers and square keep. In the 17th century, it was the site of infamous witch trials before being transformed into a noble retreat in 1673. Today, the castle boasts magnificent halls, such as the Knights’ Hall, refined salons, a former prison, and a 14th-century chapel adorned with exquisite frescoes. Its inner courtyard reflects the fusion of medieval and 17th-century architecture. The castle also houses an exceptional collection of 500 silver pieces, one of the finest in Belgium.

Located on the edge of Cinquantenaire Park, House Cauchie is one of the most remarkable Art Nouveau houses in Brussels. Designed in 1905 by the artist couple Paul Cauchie (1875-1952) and Lina Cauchie, née Caroline Voet (1875-1969), the house served both as their home and a showcase for their work. 

Today, this listed building is owned by CDA and open to the public as part of Brussels’ museum network. 

PRESENTATION

Unlike many Brussels Art Nouveau façades, often inspired by nature, House Cauchie stands out for its striking geometric design. 

Its impressive façade, conceived as a giant advertisement, is richly decorated with sgraffito panels, demonstrating the expertise of the Ateliers Cauchie and attracting potential clients. The first floor served as a display space for interior decoration, with some original elements still visible today.

After the death of Paul and Lina Cauchie, the house was gradually abandoned and faced demolition. In 1979, Guy and Léona Dessicy saved it and undertook a meticulous restoration.

In 1979, Guy and Léona Dessicy saved it and undertook a meticulous restoration. 

The former basement workshop has been converted into a gallery showcasing the couple’s works and archives. Knowledgeable guides bring their story to life during visits.

Located in Drogenbos, on the outskirts of Brussels, Château Calmeyn is a stunning example of 19th-century elegance and refinement. 

PRESENTATION

Designed between 1852 and 1853 by the renowned architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar, it showcases Italian influences in Belgian neoclassical architecture. Originally known as Château Rey, it was passed on to the Calmeyn family at the end of the 19th century. Several members of this distinguished family left their mark on the history of Drogenbos as mayors.

Surrounded by a 33-hectare estate, once part of the Sonian Forest, the château offers a peaceful retreat steeped in history. The beautifully landscaped park invites visitors to stroll along shaded paths lined with majestic century-old trees, while a picturesque lake reflects the changing colours of the seasons. This enchanting setting preserves the charm of grand aristocratic residences of the 19th century, where nature and heritage come together in perfect harmony. A timeless escape just minutes from the city.

A masterpiece of Flemish Renaissance architecture, Grand-Bigard Castle is set within a magnificent 14-hectare park and encircled by a wide moat, enhancing its imposing presence. Owned by the Pelgrims de Bigard family since the early 20th century, it was restored by Raymond Pelgrims de Bigard, preserving this architectural gem for future generations.

PRESENTATION

The castle’s origin dates back to the 12th century when Almaric de Bigard ruled the estate. Over the centuries, it changed hands many times.

In 1347, a massive 30-metre-high keep was erected to reinforce its defenses. The main building, a stunning example of 17th-century Flemish architecture, stands out with its red brickwork, white stone window frames, and blue slate roofs.

A five-arched bridge, flanked by 17th-century heraldic statues, leads to the fortified entrance gate, a reminder of the estate’s defensive past. To the right, a beautifully preserved chapel reflects the site’s spiritual significance.

Eight centuries ago, surrounded by its moats, Beloeil Castle was initially a medieval fortress. Over the centuries, it transformed into a pleasure castle and has been owned by the Princes of Ligne since the 14th century. 

PRESENTATION

Acquired by the Ligne family through inheritance from the Condé in the 14th century, Beloeil Castle has undergone several architectural transformations, evolving from a defensive stronghold into a more comfortable aristocratic residence. While some foundations and towers still bear witness to its military past, the estate has been designed to reflect the elegance and refinement of its occupants.

The interior houses a remarkable collection of artworks from the 17th to the 19th century, including furniture crafted by the greatest French cabinetmakers of the 17th and 18th centuries, and an impressive library containing 20,000 volumes.

The estate is also renowned for its French-style garden, designed in 1664 and meticulously maintained according to its original layout. This 25-hectare park, harmoniously blending water and greenery, shade and light, is recognized as an exceptional heritage site in Wallonia.

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Hainaut, Louvignies Castle dates back to a medieval tower built in 1389. Over the centuries, it evolved and expanded before being acquired in 1716 by Don Rodrigues de Perralta, an ancestor of the de Moreau de Villegas de St-Pierre family, who still owns it today. 

PRESENTATION

Around 1870, Louvignies castle underwent a major transformation under Count Léon de Villegas de St-Pierre and his wife, Countess Ferdinande de Maillen. 

A fine example of 19th-century eclecticism, the castle has preserved its original furnishings. Visitors can step back in time and experience both aristocratic life—through monogrammed tableware, crystal glassware, ball gowns, and family albums—and the daily routines of the household staff. This Belgian château offers an atmosphere reminiscent of Downton Abbey.

The landscaped park, covering 14 hectares, was designed by Louis Fuchs in 1870 and is listed among ‘Wallonia’s remarkable gardens’. It is home to several remarkable trees, including a Virginia tulip tree dating from 1880. 

The grounds also features stables, a kennel, a vaulted icehouse, and an orangery set within a historic walled vegetable garden.  

Nestled in the rolling hills of Haspengouw, Hex Castle was built around 1770 as a summer retreat and hunting lodge for the Prince-Bishop of Liège.

Today, the estate remains in the hands of the d’Ursel family, who carefully preserve its heritage and charm.

PRESENTATION

Le Prince-Evêque de Liège, François-Charles von Velbrück, visionnaire et passionné d’art, de science et de nature, fit de son domaine un havre de sérénité et d’élégance.

François-Charles von Velbrück, the visionary Prince-Bishop of Liège, was a great patron of the arts, science, and nature. He transformed Heks into a haven of beauty and tranquility. The castle is surrounded by magnificent formal gardens featuring an exceptional rose collection, a unique organic vegetable garden with rare heirloom varieties, and a romantic English-style park with breathtaking vistas and ancient trees. 

The famous rose collection, home to several rare varieties, makes Hex a must-visit destination for garden and botany enthusiasts.

Listed as a historic monument and part of the Natura 2000 network, the estate is a sanctuary of biodiversity.

Located in Sint-Truiden, Nagels House is a magnificent bourgeois residence built during the Belle Époque by notary Louis Nagels and his wife, Emma Debruyn.

With its eclectic façade and interior, it stands as a remarkable testament to late 19th-century architecture and style.

Today, it is a private property and home to Emporium-Interiors, a prestigious interior design boutique.

PRESENTATION

Designed in 1892 by architect Edmond Serrure Jr., Nagels House perfectly captures the refined spirit of the Belle Époque. Visitors are greeted by an impressive Renaissance-style entrance hall, featuring a grand ceremonial staircase.

On the first floor, beautifully decorated rooms display a variety of styles, including Néo-Gothic, Louis XV, and Egyptian. A highlight of the visit is the Egyptian ‘Music Salon’, a rare example in Flanders of the late 19th-century fascination with ancient Egypt. 

Another treasure is the stained-glass window depicting Sarah Bernhardt, created in 1893 after a painting by her close friend, the French artist Georges Clairin.

Nine centuries ago, a community of canons settled on a hill south of Liège, in a place known as “Belle-Fontaine”. They built a church, a keep, a priory, a farm, and a brewery. 

Today, the main part of the estate still belongs to the Laloux family, who acquired it in 1890.

PRESENTATION

Founded in 1123, Beaufays Abbey has witnessed over nine centuries of history, first under the authority of the Bishop of Verdun, then under the Prince-Bishop of Liège. Following the French Revolution, the estate was sold in 1796. After passing through several owners and serving as a girls’ boarding school in 1875, the Liège industrialist Adolphe Laloux purchased Beaufays in 1890. He undertook major restoration works and designed stunning landscaped gardens.

Built in 1701, the current church is an architectural Baroque-style masterpiece. The estate also houses the recently restored Henri de Goha Pavilion, a jewel of Liège’s heritage, featuring a remarkable Louis XIV stucco ceiling adorned with oak and acanthus leaves.

Le domaine abrite également le pavillon Henri de Goha, un petit joyau du patrimoine architectural liégeois. Restauré en 2024, il est orné d’un plafond stuqué de style Louis XIV, aux motifs de feuilles d’acanthe et de chêne.

In collaboration with a local brewery, the abbey continues to make the “Prieuré de Beaufays”, an abbey beer inspired by centuries-old Augustinian brewing tradition. 

Niché dans un cadre naturel d’exception, le château de Waleffe, érigé en 1706, est l’extension d’une ferme fortifiée datant du XVIè siècle. Classée au patrimoine exceptionnel de Wallonie, il appartient depuis 1580 à la famille des barons de Potesta de Waleffe, descendants directs du Grand Curtius, célèbre industriel et grand mécène de la ville de Liège. 

PRESENTATION

Le château de Waleffe incarne l’élégance du style classique du XVIIIe siècle. Son intérieur somptueusement décoré mélange les influences Louis XIV et Louis XV, offrant un cadre raffiné avec meubles d’époque, tapisseries et œuvres d’art. Inspiré par l’architecte Daniel Marot, le château marie simplicité et sophistication. Ce lieu a joué un rôle stratégique durant la Seconde Guerre mondiale en servant de refuge pour des membres de l’Armée secrète. 

Le parc, avec son allée de tilleuls et sa charmille bicentenaire, fut réaménagé au XIXe siècle. Des sculptures en terre cuite ornent la cour d’honneur, tandis qu’un jardin en broderie témoigne du raffinement paysager d’autrefois. Un espace dédié à l’herboristerie propose des ateliers sur les plantes médicinales et la phytothérapie.

Lassus Castle, set in the picturesque village of Hamoir along the Ourthe River, is a historic residence full of character. 

To breathe new life into the estate, the current owners, Sabine and Jean-François Rancelot, have transformed part of the castle into charming holiday rentals. 

PRESENTATION

Built in three different periods, the 13th, 18th and 19th centuries, this castle is an interesting architectural ensemble. The building, surrounded by gardens and a landscaped park, is set in an exceptional green setting, the Ourthe valley immortalised by the great painter Richard Heinz, the “Master of Sy”.

Perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the High Fens, Reinhardstein Castle proudly overlooks the Warche River. It is the only Eifel style castle in Belgium and the highest in the country.

The castle is owned by the non-profit organisation Reinhardstein, which is dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and bringing this historic site to life.

PRESENTATION

In 1354, Wenceslas of Luxembourg granted Renaud de Waimes permission to build a castle on this site. Over the centuries, it changed hands between several noble families, including Zivelle, Schwarzenberg, Brandscheid, Spontin, and Nassau.

In 1550, following the marriage of Anne of Nassau and Wilhelm von Metternich, the castle became part of this influential Rhineland dynasty, which retained it until the French Revolution. Left abandoned for over 150 years, it fell into ruin until 1965, when historian Jean Overloop took on the challenge of restoring it. With the help of local craftsmen and a group of friends, he meticulously rebuilt the castle over eighteen months, establishing a non-profit organisation to support its revival.

Gomery Castle, located in the village of the same name in the heart of the Gaume region, is one of the oldest castles in the area. A symbol of local heritage, it remains closely linked to the de Gerlache family. Today, it is owned by Baron Bernard de Gerlache de Gomery, Honorary President of the Royal Association of Historic Houses and Gardens.

PRESENTATION

PRESENTATION The castle dates back to the late 12th century when its chapel and first structures were built. Major transformations occurred in the early 17th century, as indicated by 1601 and 1604, engraved on the southern façade’s cornice and a gargoyle of the keep. Originally, the castle was designed around a square courtyard, with four corner towers, of which two still stand today. Moats surrounded it, and access was via a drawbridge, connecting the keep to the outbuildings.

Over the centuries, the castle underwent architectural changes. In 1817, the southern wing was demolished, but the northern wing, the keep, and the chapel have been carefully preserved and restored by each generation of the family.

Since 1726, the castle has been in the de Gerlache family, known for figures such as Baron Etienne-Constantin de Gerlache, president of the National Congress in 1830, and Baron Adrien de Gerlache de Gomery, who led the Belgian Antarctic Expedition (1897-1899) aboard the Belgica. His son, Gaston de Gerlache, later headed another Antarctic mission between 1957 and 1959 from the King Baudouin Base.

Built in 1758, Annevoie Castle is nestled between Namur and Dinant and is renowned for its breathtaking water gardens. Since 2017, the estate has been managed by a private foundation established by Ernest-Tom LOUMAYE and his wife, to restore and preserve this exceptional architectural and landscape heritage. 

PRESENTATION

Annevoie Estate was founded in 1758, thriving on the prosperity brought by the iron industry. His travels inspired Charles-Alexis de MONTPELLIER to design gardens seamlessly blending French, Italian, and English styles. Spanning around twelve hectares, the gardens feature a remarkable network of ponds, canals, and over fifty fountains and waterfalls, all functioning naturally without machinery. The historic vegetable garden has also been beautifully restored.

As one of the best-preserved water gardens in Europe, Annevoie holds prestigious titles such as “Historic Monument,” “Exceptional Heritage of Wallonia,” and “Remarkable Gardens.” It has also been awarded two stars in the Michelin Guide.

Located in Gembloux, Corroy Castle is a striking 13th-century medieval fortress built by the souvereign count Philip of Vianden. Recognised as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia, it is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. 

Owned by the de Trazegnies family since the 19th century, it is now managed by Marquis Olivier de Trazegnies on behalf of the Royal Association of Historic Residences and Gardens of Belgium.

PRESENTATION

Built to defend the southern border of the Duchy of Brabant, this moated castle stands out with its imposing towers and fortified entrance. Inspired by the Philipian design of the Louvre, the castle belonged to several prominent families before being passed down through inheritance to the Trazegnies family.

Over the centuries, the castle evolved to meet military advancements, including the addition of gunports. In the 18th century, extensive renovations improved its living spaces, creating grand apartments and prestigious salons. In the 19th century, the dining hall was adorned with marble and paintings by Jean Robie, while the chapel and vestibule were redesigned in a neo-Gothic style. The first salon featured magnificent paintings from the 1770s, originally coming from the former Villegas hotel in Brussels.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Lasne Valley, Rixensart Castle is a magnificent architectural gem, recognised as an exceptional heritage site in Wallonia. The Merode family has owned it since 1715. Created in 2018, the Merode-Rixensart Foundation is dedicated to preserving this rich heritage.

PRESENTATION

First mentioned in 1217, the Rixensart estate originally belonged to the de Limal family. In the 16th century, it passed to the Croÿ family and, in 1586, to Jean-Charles de Gavre, Count of Frésin, who expanded the medieval fortress. At the end of the 17th century, the château was partially destroyed by the troops of Louis XIV. It was rebuilt and enhanced by General Philippe-Hippolyte Spinola, serving the King of Spain, who gave it its current appearance.

Since 1715, the estate has remained in the hands of the Merode family, who continue its preservation today.

Built around an elegant inner courtyard, the château blends Renaissance and Baroque styles with Genoa, Spain, and Brabant influences. The Sainte-Croix Church, built on its foundations, replaced the medieval tower, destroyed in the fire. Once a private chapel, it became a parish church in 1802.

Nestled in the heart of Bruges, Hof Bladelin is a magnificent medieval city palace with a rich history shaped by art, faith, and trade. 

Since 1964, it has been under the care of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, Ruiselede, who are dedicated to preserving this remarkable heritage.

PRESENTATION

Stepping into the enclosed garden of Hof Bladelin is like travelling back to the Burgundian era of Bruges. Originally built for Pierre Bladelin, Treasurer of the Order of the Golden Fleece, the residence was later expanded by Piero de Medici, a member of the renowned Florentine banking dynasty, and further extended in the 16th century by the influential Egmont family. 

Over the centuries, Hof Bladelin served as an aristocratic residence and, between 1632 and 1669, housed a Carmelite convent. 

Around 1830, Abbot Léon de Foere established a religious institute for the poor, founded a lace school, and commissioned a neoclassical chapel. He also adorned the audience hall with monumental frescoes—faithful reproductions of Raphael’s Vatican murals. 

Wynendaele Castle, located in Torhout, is a historic residence with a rich past. Originally a medieval fortress, it was largely restored to its former splendour in the 19th century. With over 1,000 years of history, this architectural gem remains the property of the Matthieu de Wynendaele family, preserving its heritage and timeless character. 

PRESENTATION 

First mentioned in 1127, the castle is believed to have been built by Robert I of Flanders as a residence for the Counts of Flanders. During the 13th century, under Guy of Dampierre, it played an important diplomatic role, hosting negotiations and alliances. 

In the 15th century, the castle was taken over by John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy, and later inhabited by the House of Cleves, Lords of Ravenstein. In 1482, tragedy struck in the surrounding forest when Duchess Mary of Burgundy suffered a fatal accident during a hunting expedition. Over the centuries, the castle endured many hardships. In 1795, it was ransacked by French troops, leaving it in ruins. 

During the 19th century, the castle underwent significant restoration under the guidance of Brussels banker Josse Pierre Matthieu. He preserved several original features, including parts of the north wing dating back to 1302. 

In 1940, the castle once again became the setting for a historic event: the fateful meeting between King Leopold III and his ministers at the onset of the Second World War.

Loppem Castle, near Bruges, is a stunning neo-Gothic masterpiece from the mid-19th century. Set within a vast park with ancient trees, ponds, and a labyrinth, it offers a unique historical and architectural experience.

In 1951, Baron Jean van Caloen established a foundation to preserve the castle, its furnishings, park, and outbuildings while promoting its rich art collections.

PRESENTATION

Designed as a complete work of art, the castle seamlessly blends exterior and interior elements. The English architect Edward Welby Pugin created the furniture, while Jean-Baptiste Bethune designed the interiors. Skilled local craftsmen crafted the stained glass, chandeliers, staircases, and fireplaces.

The ground floor features elegant reception rooms that reflect 19th-century grandeur, while the upper floor houses the family chapel and royal chambers. These rooms recall the castle’s prestigious past, including the stay of King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth in 1918, shortly after the First World War. The ground floor features elegant reception rooms that reflect 19th-century grandeur, while the upper floor houses the family chapel and royal chambers. 

The castle displays medieval, Asian, and African art collections assembled by Jean and Roland van Caloen.

These rooms recall the castle’s prestigious past, including the stay of King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth in 1918, shortly after the First World War.