If you’re looking for ideas for your next getaway near Brussels, you’ve come to the right place. In fact, Belgium is said to be the country with the most castles per square kilometer, and several of them are located near the capital! But which ones are the most beautiful? Don’t worry, we’re here to help—our readers have made the call! The choice was a tough one, though… Medieval fortresses, Renaissance castles, or splendid 19th-century structures—here are the most beautiful Belgian castles within an hour of Brussels, according to our readers.
Nestled in thegreen hills of the Hageland,Horst Castlestands like amedieval mirage frozen in time. Famous as the home ofthe Red Knightand the setting for ahaunted legend, thisgem of Flemish Brabantcaptivates with itsarchitectureand its intact17th-century features. After centuries of slumber, thismajestic fortressis undergoing a complete transformation. Betweenmeticulous restorationandhistorical activities, the estate is preparing to reopen its doors soon.
🚗 Located 45 minutes east of Brussels
This elegant castle in the Flemish Neo-Renaissance style, adorned with red brick and natural stone, was built in 1842 by the Count of Béthune. It is surrounded by a vast park with magnificent French gardens, ideal for long walks. Furthermore, the property now belongs to the Walloon Region and houses a significant collection of contemporary art. A cultural getaway in the heart of nature that’s not to be missed!
🚗 Located 30 minutes south of Brussels
Nestled in Bonheiden, in the province of Antwerp, stands a silhouette straight out of a fairy tale: Zellaer Castle. This Neo-Gothic masterpiece, built on the foundations of a medieval fortress, captivates with its white sandstone architecture inspired by the châteaux of the Loire Valley. But behind its dazzling façade lies much more than a mere relic of the past. Now a vibrant cultural and social hub, the estate invites you to escape, from its lively summer bar to its SecretZ festival.
🚗 Located 30 minutes northeast of Brussels
Beersel Castle seems to have stepped straight out of the pages of a fairy tale. A former medieval fortress built around 1420 to defend Brussels, it is without a doubt one of the finest examples of military architecture in our country! Its fortifications are a classic example of the genre: deep moats, a drawbridge, crenellated ramparts, and arrowslits. You can almost picture yourself there, sword in hand, ready to defend our city! The castle also houses a fascinating museum that traces the history of the region and will appeal to anyone seeking adventure!
🚗 Located 35 minutes south of Brussels
BetweenBrusselsandLiège, theChâteau d’Hélécinestands with itsneoclassicalsilhouette at the heart of a28-hectare estate, bearing witness to an extraordinary history. Originallyan abbey founded in the 12th century, this fortress survived theWars of Religionandlootingbefore being transformed into astunning estate. With its majestic27-meter-highdome, peacefulfishing ponds, immersivearchaeology museum, andcraft brewery,Hélécineoffers every visitor anenchanting escape.
🚗 Located 45 minutes east of Brussels
Gasbeek Castle reopened its doors last year after three years of restoration. Now, this marvelous castle welcomes visitors in all its splendor. Although it took on its current form during its restoration from 1887 to 1898, an earlier fortified castle already existed on this site around 1240. After its destruction, another castle was built there in 1500, and this one, in turn, was inhabited and rebuilt numerous times until it took on its current form. Not only is Gaasbeek Castle a fantastic example of Neo-Renaissance architecture, but it also houses a prestigious museum. The museum boasts a significant collection of works of art and historical artifacts that bear witness to its rich past.
🚗 Located about ten kilometers southwest of Brussels.
The splendid Grand-Bigart Castle is a true treasure of the Flemish Renaissance. It features vast gardens as well as a lovely lake perfect for a stroll. Its origins date back to the 12th century, but many of its elements were added or remodeled over the following centuries. Its keep, for example, was built around 1347, the five-arched bridge in the 17th century, and the small entrance gatehouse in the 14th. A visit to Grand-Bigard is also the perfect spring getaway! Indeed, every spring, its gardens host the superb Floralia exhibition. You’ll see no fewer thana million flowers, including 400 varieties of tulips, as well as hyacinths, daffodils, and many other varieties. Don’t miss it next spring!
🚗 Located 7 km west of Brussels
Karreveld is the name given to a former three-hectare estate and a castle-farm in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean. Karreveld, or Karel Veld in Dutch, means “Charles’s Field.” The name is said to originate from Emperor Charles V, who is said to have passed through this area during his lifetime. However, historical documents seem to contradict this legendary account, as the estate—and the name Karreveld—are said to have been mentioned long before the famous emperor was even born… In any case, this magnificent Neo-Renaissance-style castle, with its gardens and pond, is sure to charm you—we have no doubt about it! A perfect getaway, just a stone’s throw from Brussels!
🚗 Located 1 km northwest of Brussels
