A stone’s throw from Brussels, this medieval treasure can be found nestled in the hills—a castle with a striking contrast between medieval style and romantic neo-Gothic architecture.

Located in the heart of the Pajottenland hills, this historic residence with its exceptional cultural heritage stands out in a unique green setting, less than 30 minutes from the capital.

Jules Mairet - Journaliste Publirédactionnel • January 15, 2026

A true guardian of the region’s medieval past, Gaasbeek Castle is a cultural and artistic gem nestled among the green hills on the outskirts of Brussels. Built nearly 800 years ago, this fortress with walls steeped in history offers a fascinating stopover in the middle of a vast 49-hectare park laid out in the 17th century.

Secret Brussels takes you on a journey of discovery to Gaasbeek Castle, exploring one of the city’s legendary monuments and the impressive collection of its precious garden museum. The secrets of an unmissable getaway where heritage rhymes with tranquility.

The charm of a romantic fortress enhanced by an exceptional garden museum

Behind its imposing ramparts and thick walls, Gaasbeek Castle hides a deeply romantic soul. Although its foundations date back to the 13th century, it was the Marquise Arconati-Visconti, nicknamed the Red Marquise, who, at the end of the 19th century, transformed the place into this fairytale fortress with neo-Gothicinfluences . An artistic refuge, over the centuries the castle has amassed a sumptuous art collection, ranging from centuries-old tapestries to period furniture and Gothic-style paintings.

The cultural journey continues beyond the castle gates into a unique natural space. The jewel in the crown of the estate, the Gaasbeek garden museum is now a listed monument with remarkable aesthetics. In this collector’s garden, all the walls are covered with various varieties of espalier fruit and flowers. A colorful environment nestled within a naturally specific microclimate; a sublime escape, just a stone’s throw from Brussels.

An escape into the great outdoors for an inspiring cultural interlude

Gaasbeek Castle is not only an architectural and historical gem of Brussels, but also the source of an essential cultural mission. The vision of the Flemish Community, through art exhibitions and guided tours, is to perpetuate the values of the castle’s illustrious guests. Hibernating until spring, the castle grounds, the undisputed green lung of the Pajottenland, remain accessible free of charge every day of the year for an informative stroll around the trees and various historic buildings on the estate.

At the beginning of April, Gaasbeek reopens its doors and welcomes visitors from all over the world. Accessible by metro, bus, bicycle, and car less than 30 minutes from Brussels, treat yourself to a visit to this unique place (free for those under 18 and a maximum price of €12). The garden museum will open its doors in early May, the ideal time to admire the flower collections and the divine grounds.

📍Kasteel van Gaasbeek, Kasteelstraat 40, 1750 Gaasbeek

Also read on Secret Brussels 👉 Less than 1.5 hours from Brussels, this castle, described as the “Versailles” of Belgium, offers the perfect getaway starting next spring, with its history, period salons, and geometric gardens.