Here are the top 5 castles to visit in Wallonia, each with its own unique story about the nobility of the past, architectural advancements, the lives of the servants, and the rich history of this region in Belgium.
Visiting a castle offers something intriguing for every family member—charming surroundings, spooky dungeons, elegant furniture, captivating family histories, and more. While many castles answer our questions, they leave some things to the imagination. How cold were the living spaces in winter? What was it like to relieve oneself by peeing down the castle walls? How heavy and uncomfortable was it to fight in armor?
These thoughts bring history to life, imagining princes practicing sword fights in courtyards, ladies reading by the fire, and staff toiling in the kitchens.
We’ve found five distinct castles in Wallonia: a fairytale castle perfect for daydreaming, a place known as “Belgium’s Versailles,” a private medieval castle, a castle renowned for its beautiful gardens, and one with three museums and a moat. Let’s dive into each.
Chateau de Veves
Chateau de Veves is like the castle of Sleeping Beauty. Kids can dress up in royal costumes here. This majestic yet small castle dates back to Pepin de Herstal in the 8th century and has been owned by the Counts of Liederkerke Beaufort since the 12th century. The interiors feature 18th-century furniture, exquisite porcelain, and historical curiosities. The ancestral family tree on the first floor and the well-worn kitchen are highlights. Visitors can also relax at the terrace café (open from July 15th to August 15th) with cider or local beer while enjoying majestic views.
Chateau de Beloeil
Dubbed “Belgium’s Versailles,” Chateau de Beloeil is the grandest of the castles. Though its comparison to Versailles might be an exaggeration, its grandeur is undeniable. Since it began as a medieval fortress, it has evolved into a comfortable home for the Princes de Ligne. The present form came about in the 18th century, boasting Louis XVI furniture and a 17th-century library with over 20,000 books. Despite a fire in 1900, the castle was restored to its former glory. The vast 17th-century tapestries and the impressive book collection are must-sees.
Corroy le Chateau
Unlike the other castles, the medieval Corroy le Chateau has retained its original appearance. You can admire the original towers, walls, and pathways. Being a private residence, it’s only open on weekends and public holidays from May to September, with guided tours led by the knowledgeable staff, including English-speaking guides. The visit is intimate and contrasts with the other more public castles.
Jardins et Chateau d’Annevoie
More famous for its gardens than the castle itself, Jardins et Chateau d’Annevoie is a major Heritage site in Wallonia. The estate features springs, vast parklands, and water features powered naturally without machines. The gardens combine three styles: Italian, French, and English, offering a peaceful stroll and a glance into different gardening philosophies from art adapting to nature to art imitating nature. Parts of the chateau date back to 1627.
Chateau de Lavaux Sainte-Anne
A castle with three museums, Chateau de Lavaux Sainte-Anne offers a comprehensive visit. Entering through a former farmhouse, the view of medieval towers is striking. Inside, the first museum focuses on the 17th and 18th-century lords who lived there. The second museum in the cellar showcases rural life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The third museum on the first floor covers natural history and hunting techniques, including falconry. Outside, visitors can enjoy a walk through newly established wetlands, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Explore these castles to get a deep and varied sense of Wallonia’s rich history.
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