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.

Nestled along the Meuse River near Dinant, Freÿr Castle was originally a fortress before evolving into a magnificent Renaissance residence. 

Passed down through the Spontin, Laubespin, and Bonaert families, the estate is now managed by the Domaine de Freÿr non-profit organisation.

PRESENTATION

Originally built in the 14th century by Jean d’Orjo, Freÿr Castle was destroyed in 1554 and rebuilt in 1571 by Guillaume de Beaufort-Spontin. 

In the 17th century, Hubert de Spontin transformed it into a Renaissance-style country residence and designed its gardens, which were later redesigned in the French style in the 18th century. 

In 1675, it hosted negotiations between Louis XIV and Charles II of Spain, leading to a trade agreement restoring commerce along the Meuse. 

After turbulent post-revolutionary times, the castle flourished once more before being requisitioned as a German military hospital in 1914. 

Restored after the war, it was opened to the public in the late 1940s. Its stunning gardens, with terraces, fountains, and centuries-old orange trees, offer breathtaking views of the Meuse.

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.