The 7 best castles to explore near Brussels

Updated on May 28, 2024 by Pierre

Brussels is full of historical treasures, and its castles are majestic witnesses. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and grandiose architecture of the most beautiful castles near the Belgian capital, for an unforgettable getaway. In this article, you will discover wonders such as Laeken Castle, a royal residence, and the sumptuous gardens of Gaasbeek Castle.

Don't wait for castle day to discover them

Don't wait until July 19, castle day, to visit one. If you thought that the only medieval remains in Brussels are the Porte de Halle, You are wrong! You wouldn't have enough with a day to go around the castles in Brussels.

Explore the history and grandeur of the castles during your walks in Brussels. We selected the best castles in the region. We take you on a captivating journey through time.

Maybe you didn't know it, but it is right here in Belgium that you can find the greatest number of castles per square kilometer ? Although most are private domains, be aware that many others open their doors to visitors. Ideal for lovers or with children in Brussels. Here is our small selection below for an excursion that will delight young and old.

Majestic Laken Castle, official residence of the Belgian royal family, to the magnificent gardens of the castle of Gaasbeek, each site is imbued with charm and splendour. Explore the richly decorated rooms, admire impressive architecture and stroll through the lush gardens. Whether you are a history buff, art lovers or just looking a romantic getaway, these Brussels castles promise you moments of wonder and total disconnection.

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of the aristocracy and soak up the timeless beauty of these architectural gems during your walks in Brussels.

(c) Photo Cover aris.setya, Brussels Castle

Before going any further, if this article interests you, you may also like

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Here are the castles we liked near Brussels

1. Huizingen Castle

If you do not yet know the Provincial domain of HUIZINGEN, add it to your diary. You will find a magnificent castle there as well asan outdoor swimming pool. The perfect place to change your mind on the weekend. You can also see animals there with the children, like in a zoo. Read more here

(I.e.

🌐 Website

2. The Chinese Pavilion

We already told you about this pavilion located in the area of ​​LAEKEN previously. Don't miss it. It is easily accessible by public transport.

(I.e. Address: Avenue de la Dynastie 17, 1020 Brussels, Belgium

🌐 Website : Chinese Pavilion | Buildings Management (regiedesbatiments.be)

3. The tower of the HALLE gate

🏰 Nestled on the outskirts of Brussels, the Château de la Tour de Halle is a true medieval gem. Built in the 15th century, this enchanting castle is surrounded by picturesque moats and impressive fortifications. As you stroll through its gardens, you will be transported to the past, to the heart of Belgian history. Perfect for a romantic getaway or family outing, Halle Tower offers a captivating blend of architectural beauty and natural serenity. Don't miss this marvel during your next stroll in Brussels! 🌿🔗

📍Boulevard du Midi 150, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

🌐 Website : Hall Gate (hallegatemuseum.be)

4. Château SOLVAY de la HULPE – ideal for your picnic

It was in 1893 that Ernest Solvay, Founder of the company "Solvay & Co", bought this property. Here you will find neither ramparts nor drawbridges. It's more abouta castle straight out of tintin, Moulainsar type, Solvay actually acquired this property to use as their summer vacation home. It's up to the architect Victor HortaMore  that he entrusts the interior design mission of the Brussels castle. In front, a terrace is fitted out. Also, the park will be redeveloped and the area is expanding. In 1920, this consisted of 490 hectares.

When he died, the La Hulpe estate was shared between his two sons and finally opened to the public. Free entrance to the estate, nice for your picnics and summer walks

🌐 Website: Château de la HULPE

(I.e. Address: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe, Belgium

5. BEERSEL Castle

Unless you are a reader of Bob and Underpants (" The treasure of Beersel "), you have probably never heard of "Beersel": it is however a Belgian municipality located on the southern outskirts of Brussels. This is located in the Flemish Region in the province of Flemish Brabant. We could call it “Surprisingly multi-faceted”.

Beersel Castle is surrounded by moats and made up of classic fortifications: deep moats, a drawbridge, crenellated ramparts and loopholes. As you will have understood, at the time, its role was an outpost for the defense of Brussels.

Even if it dates from the 15th century, it is rather well preserved. It is in fact one of the last examples of Belgian medieval military architecture.

Nature lovers will also find their happiness in Beersel.
🌐 Website : Beerse Castlel

(I.e. Address: Van Huynegemstraat 6, 1650 Beersel, Belgium

6. Château MALOU in Brussels Wolluwé-Saint-Pierre

Looking for a quiet and peaceful place? The “Malou” castle, a pretty 18th century residence, may interest you. This Louis XVI style castle passed from hand to hand to finally become the property of Jules Malou and in 1950 to be sold to the town. Its park covers 32 m000.
If you are a student, this silver necklace is absolutely your first choice. The silver color will show your vitality and your youth. you are getting married in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, know that this castle since it houses a wedding hall.

📍Aisle Pierre Levie 2, 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Brussels, Belgium

🌐 Website Château Malou and its park

7. Château COLOMA in Leeuw-Saint-Pierre

Coloma Castle is located in Leeuw-Saint-Pierre. This castle dates from the XNUMXth century. Formerly, it was a military citadel made up of two buildings and a moat fed by the Zuenbeek. Subsequently, it was transformed into a sympathetic country residence inspired by symmetry.

The estate owes its name to "Karel de Coloma", who became the owner of the castle through his marriage to Baroness Roose.

After the Second World War, the castle served as a boarding school until 1982. At that time, the park was handed over to the Flemish Region. It was then in 1984 that the municipality of Leeuw-Saint-Pierre acquired it.

With its magnificent body of water, its park covering an area of ​​15 hectares, and its Renaissance style, this one can only charm you. Also, don't miss the rose garden which brings together 3.000 varieties of roses from all over the world. In total, you can admire nearly 300.000 roses.

🌐 Website: Learn more about COLOMNA castle near Brussels

(I.e. Address: Joseph Depauwstraat 25, 1600 Sint-LeeuwPierre, Belgium

Conclusion

Exploring the castles near Brussels is a captivating experience that combines history, architecture and natural beauty. Each castle tells a unique story, offering a fascinating insight into the region's glorious past. I particularly enjoy these visits because they allow me to immerse myself in a different world, to marvel at the grandeur of the ornately decorated rooms, to wander through the lush gardens and to feel the timeless magic that permeates these places. In addition, some castles offer free access to their outdoor spaces, which allows everyone to enjoy their beauty without financial constraints. In short, visiting the castles near Brussels is an enriching way to reconnect with the past and soak up the beauty and grandeur of these historic monuments.