Top 20 Castles around Aalst
Best castles around Aalst offer a journey through centuries of history in East Flanders. The region, situated near Ghent, features a mix of historical fortifications and elegant estates. Visitors can explore diverse architectural styles, from medieval ruins to 18th-century expansions, set within varied landscapes. These sites provide insights into the area's past, reflecting changing defensive and residential needs over time.
Best castles around Aalst
- The most popular castles is Castle The Castle, a castle that symbolizes the historical importance of Herzele within the Land of Aalst. This 13th-century fortification, initially inhabited by local lords, was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times.
- Another must-see spot is Castle of Leeuwergem, a castle surrounded by a beautiful garden with ponds. Visitors can admire this baroque building from a distance while walking on the avenues around the domain.
- Visitors also love Overhamme Castle and Icehouse, a castle with a rich history first mentioned in the 15th century. It was depicted in an engraving from 1644 and features service buildings from the 18th century, now converted into homes.
- Aalst is known for its medieval ruins, water castles, and historical estates. These sites showcase a variety of architectural styles and historical periods, offering diverse experiences for visitors.
- The castles around Aalst are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 45 photos shared by explorers.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Castle The Castle
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In the battle of Ghent against Lodewijk van Maele, Count of Flanders, Seger van Herzele was an ally of Ghent. In 1381, in a reprisal measure, the count had the castle set on fire and confiscated the domain. A little later, the lordship was given to the lords of Roubaix and the castle was restored. The domain was now controlled remotely. In 1579 the Catholic Spaniards destroyed the fortress in the battle with the Protestant-minded Flanders.
Through marriages, inheritances and sales, the castle and the domain eventually came into the hands of the du Parc Locmaria family during the 19th century. In 1969 the municipality of Herzele bought the castle ruins and started the restoration work. Today, part of the moat, a restored residential tower and the consolidated substructure remain.
The castle site grew into the touristic business card of Herzele and the place to be at many events. It is one of the few castle sites in revolt from our province.
herzele.be/burcht
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Belfry and District House
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Oudenberg Castle
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Castle of Leeuwergem
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Moorsel Water Castle
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(wikipedia)
Castle Park
Landscape-style park, the construction of which dates back at least to the third quarter of the 19th century. To the east of this is a walled plot, probably laid out in the interwar period as a vegetable garden. This vegetable garden replaced an orchard and is partly located on a filled-in part of the moat. West of the castle is a meadow that is also part of the castle domain and is enclosed by four lanes, one of which (Karel van Croydreef) leads to the village center of Moorsel.
inventaris.onroerenderfgoed.be/erfgoedobjecten/480
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Overhamme Castle and Icehouse
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The castle was depicted in an engraving by Antonius Sanderus in 1644. This engraving shows that the castle had a U-shaped configuration with wings around the forecourt. During the second half of the 18th century, the castle was expanded and the service buildings were given their current shape.
In 1796, the castle was used as a hiding place for the monks of the Abbey of Affligem. In 1946, the castle was demolished, but some service buildings from the 18th century were preserved. These buildings have now been converted into homes and a garage.
The castle domain also includes a park with a pond and an ice cellar. It is an important heritage in East Flanders and is considered established architectural heritage.
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Breivelde Park Walking Route
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The castle houses a tavern/restaurant where you can take a break during your visit.
(City of Zottegem)
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View of Neigem Castle
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Regelsbrugge Castle
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Het Kasteeltje Denderleeuw
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The Castle was in private ownership for almost a century, until the Van Roy family offered the Castle for sale to the municipal council in 1995.
To prevent the building from being sacrificed to new construction and subdivision, or from completely succumbing to decay, the board decided to purchase the building with the adjacent coach house and surrounding garden. In addition to the redevelopment of the station square, the purchase and renovation of 't Kasteeltje was an important incentive for the revaluation of the run-down station area.
The building was completely renovated and has since housed numerous municipal services such as youth services, cultural services, sports services and social services. Numerous associations also make grateful use of the indoor infrastructure for the organization of cultural and other events. The redesigned castle garden is also ideal for organizing outdoor events. It can therefore rightly be said that the Kasteeltje, together with the coach house, currently forms the beating heart of cultural and club life in Denderleeuw.
The castle garden from 1906 was mainly conceived as an ornamental and pleasure garden at the time. During the planting, use was made mainly of the tree species and plant species that are so characteristic of the parks and castle gardens from the early 20th century. You can see a giant sequoia, Chinese temple tree, beech and horse chestnut, but also holly, rhododendron and hydrangea.
During its reconstruction, the aim was to preserve this green framework in its original condition as much as possible. Nevertheless, the contribution of contemporary accents was not avoided. Where necessary, damaged or diseased trees were replaced with carefully considered new plantings. A discreetly laid out walking path and numerous seating areas introduce visitors to this green piece of oasis in the heart
routeyou.com/nl-be/location/view/47458998/het-kasteeltje
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Tips from the Community
The eye-catcher of the Grote Markt is undoubtedly the belfry, which includes the old town hall and the district house. Together, they form a unique historical ensemble. The old town hall, dating from 1225, is the oldest preserved town hall in the Netherlands, recognizable by its high gable roof and round corner towers. The belfry was added in 1407 and is notable for its elegant octagonal tower with an open gallery. Inside, one of the oldest working carillons in the Netherlands hangs, which still resounds through the city every fifteen minutes. The tower has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. On the facade, you can see the motto "Nec spe nec metu" ("without hope, nor fear"), and the statues of the Counts of Flanders and Aalst. The clock face, dating from 1964, earned the tower the nickname "den Tettentoeren" (the Tette Towers) because of its striking shape. The district house, a late Gothic extension, was for centuries the place where the bailiff promulgated laws to the people. Five statues adorn the facade, including Justitia, Emperor Charles V, and Pieter Coecke, court painter and Aalst resident. Today, the city council still meets there monthly.
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Oudeberg Castle is situated on a beautiful four-hectare estate, perched atop the Oudeberg hill, just behind the Holy Chapel and bordering the iconic Wall of Geraardsbergen. Over the years, the estate has undergone remarkable evolution. Its current, almost fairytale-like appearance is the result of this long history. The castle's origins likely date back to a modest farmstead with accompanying stables, once owned by linen merchant and later banker Jean-François Spitaels. The characterful appearance of the castle as we know it today is largely the work of Felix Spitaels, who carried out extensive expansions between 1890 and 1895. In 1903-1904, thanks to notary Désiré De Clercq, the building took on an even more authentic castle-like appearance. Later, the estate came into the hands of the Blicken and Putseys families. Since 2003, it has been owned by Mr. Alain Corneille, who meticulously restored the property to its original grandeur.
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Breivelde Park and De Zoete Inval Pond
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Regelsbrugge Castle, located on the border of Aalst and Nieuwerkerken, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Although its original form is unknown, the castle was extensively renovated around 1795. In 1935 it was given its current neo-traditional style, designed by architect Van Overstraeten, whereby two older corner towers were retained. The castle is situated in a beautiful domain with ponds and a small forest along the Haesebeek, and the accompanying farmyard, a 19th-century whitewashed farm, contributes to the picturesque surroundings. After a period of vacancy, the domain was renovated and is now inhabited.
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The castle domain of Breivelde is a protected park domain and forms the green lung of Zottegem. The domain was laid out at the end of the 19th century in late landscape style on a sloping terrain. Water plays an important role in the design of this park: ten ponds, a cascade and a fountain strongly determine the character. The municipality has owned the domain since 1970. The castle houses a tavern/restaurant where you can take a break during your visit. (City of Zottegem)
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Very nice park close to the town, with beautiful Castle and Restaurant.
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Overhamme Castle, located in Aalst, has a rich history and interesting architecture. The castle was first mentioned in the 15th century as a possession of the de Bosch family. In the 16th century, the castle was destroyed and then restored. In 1663, the castle was issued as a fief. The castle was depicted in an engraving by Antonius Sanderus in 1644. This engraving shows that the castle had a U-shaped configuration with wings around the forecourt. During the second half of the 18th century, the castle was expanded and the service buildings were given their current shape. In 1796, the castle was used as a hiding place for the monks of the Abbey of Affligem. In 1946, the castle was demolished, but some service buildings from the 18th century were preserved. These buildings have now been converted into homes and a garage. The castle domain also includes a park with a pond and an ice cellar. It is an important heritage in East Flanders and is considered established architectural heritage.
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Today, this location can host weddings, communions, seminars, or business events. Its unique location and the splendor it exudes make this exceptional venue highly recommended for organizing events and parties. (Passed by castles and palaces)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Aalst?
Yes, several castles in the region offer a great experience for families. Castle The Castle in Herzele, while a ruin, provides an engaging historical site for exploration. The domain of Overhamme Castle in Aalst includes a park with a pond, which can be pleasant for a family stroll. Additionally, Terlinden Castle, with its island setting and surrounding forests, is known for its pleasant walks and opportunities to feed ducks in the pond.
What kind of historical insights do the castles around Aalst offer?
The castles around Aalst provide a rich tapestry of history, from medieval fortifications to elegant estates. For instance, Castle The Castle in Herzele is a 13th-century fortification that was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, reflecting centuries of conflict and change. Moorsel Water Castle, dating from 1520, showcases 16th-century architectural styles and land ownership. Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle in Bornem offers a journey through a millennium of history, housing valuable art collections and a modern visitor center.
Are there castles near Aalst with easy walking trails or natural surroundings?
Absolutely. The area around Aalst is dotted with castles set in beautiful natural landscapes. The Castle of Leeuwergem is surrounded by a stunning garden with ponds, perfect for leisurely walks. Terlinden Castle is situated on a small island amidst a lake, with pleasant surrounding forests. The Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle in Bornem also boasts a peaceful castle park ideal for relaxation. For a dedicated walking experience, consider the Breivelde Park Walking Route, which features a castle within a protected park domain with lush nature and water features.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
Beyond exploring the castles themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, such as the 'Hollow Way in Neigembos' or the 'Chapel of Our Lady of Peace' loop, which are part of the easy hikes around Aalst. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking routes like the 'Donkmeer' loop, detailed in the gravel biking guide around Aalst. Mountain biking trails, including the 'Smoorbeek Trail' or 'Paddenhoek Forest Path', are also available, as highlighted in the MTB Trails around Aalst guide.
Which castles offer a unique architectural style or setting?
For unique architecture, Castle of Leeuwergem stands out as one of Belgium's most beautiful baroque castles. Moorsel Water Castle is a well-preserved 16th-century water castle. Terlinden Castle, also known as 'the Great Curse,' offers a distinctive atmosphere with its imposing building on a small square island. Kasteel van Laarne, a magnificent medieval moated castle, features pointed round towers and an imposing square donjon.
Are there any castles near Aalst that are particularly well-preserved or restored?
Moorsel Water Castle, dating from 1520, has been protected as a monument since 1944 and has undergone significant restoration, ensuring its historical integrity. Kasteel van Laarne is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval moated castles in Belgium, housing a museum with extensive collections. Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle, while largely neo-Gothic from the 19th century, has also been recently restored and is open to visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Aalst?
The best time to visit the castles around Aalst is generally during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring castle grounds and parks. Spring offers blooming gardens, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, but may be busier with tourists.
Are there any castles with special events or exhibitions?
Kasteel van Laarne is known for hosting an annual flower festival, in addition to its permanent museum collections of antique silver and decorative arts. It also offers interactive elements like a video guide about the witches of Laarne and digital reconstruction of murals. Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle houses the world's largest private collection of engravings by Pieter Bruegel the Elder and an old Flemish art cabinet, making it a significant attraction for art lovers.
Which castles are easily accessible from Aalst?
Overhamme Castle and Terlinden Castle are both located directly within Aalst, making them very accessible. Moorsel Water Castle is in Moorsel, a short distance from Aalst. Other notable castles like Kasteel van Laarne and Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle are located further afield but are still within a reasonable driving distance from Aalst.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?
Yes, some castle locations offer amenities. Kasteel van Laarne has a restaurant on its grounds. The castle within the Breivelde Park Walking Route houses a tavern/restaurant, providing a convenient spot for a break during your visit. For other castles, you may find cafes and eateries in the nearby towns or villages.
Are there any castles around Aalst that are wheelchair accessible?
Marnix de Sainte Aldegonde Castle in Bornem has a modern, wheelchair-friendly visitor center, which helps make the castle's history and collections accessible to a wider audience. For other castles, accessibility can vary, so it's advisable to check their specific websites or contact them directly for detailed information on wheelchair access to grounds and interiors.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles worth exploring?
While not as widely publicized as some larger sites, castles like Regelsbrugge Castle or Het Kasteeltje Denderleeuw offer interesting local history. Terlinden Castle, with its unique island setting and intriguing nickname 'the Great Curse,' provides a distinct and atmospheric experience that might be considered a hidden gem for those seeking something off the main tourist path.
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