Attractions and places to see around Begijnendijk include a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant. The municipality is characterized by its diverse terrain, featuring river valleys, forests, and agricultural areas. It offers various opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly walking and cycling routes. The region's geography supports a range of ecosystems, from wetlands to ancient oak forests.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The 2-meter-high wooden statue of Father Damien was placed on the west side of the Damien Bridge on August 22, 2013, and was donated by Lizette Cresens from Haacht. The statue was made by an artist from Wolfsdonk. Source: https://www.tremelo.be/product/2172/15-standbeeld-damiaan-damiaanbrug The bicycle and pedestrian bridge itself was put into use in 2012 and is located near the Damien Museum in Ninde (at the end of the road). The two Dijle dikes that are connected by it are called the Pater Damiaandijk (on the Ninde side) and the Schipstrekkersdijk (the Haacht side). Near the bridge, the Grote Laak flows into the Dijle. That's a river that splits off from the Demer near Aarschot and is also known as the Laak and formerly the Meetshovense Laak.
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Very colorful in autumn...
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The Damien Bridge is a steel girder bridge for pedestrians and cyclists over the Dijle River on the border of the municipalities of Haacht and Tremelo.
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Here you can also take a break on the benches...
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Bridge over the Dijle back to the height of Keerbergen.
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The core of Horst Castle probably dates back to the 13th century and is characterised by a square keep. The keep probably belonged to the oldest core that was further expanded into a fortified castle in the 15th century. During the troubles under Maximilian of Austria in 1489, the castle of Horst was taken by the people of Leuven and set on fire. According to literary sources, only the keep, part of the entrance gate and a defensive wall remained standing. The residential and east wing were renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The round tower also dates from this period. The outer wall was provided with a rectangular bay window. The castle lost its military character and became more of a pleasant residential area with a view of the moat, the ponds and the inner courtyard. Brick construction with sandstone layers characterise these buildings. In 1587, however, the castle was set on fire again during the raids of the Geuzen. It was not until the beginning of the 17th century that restoration work began. It is difficult to deduce from the available sources to what extent this involved restoration or an embellishing conversion of the castle complex. Presumably nothing changed in the internal structure, but only after the structurally necessary repairs were the interiors completely refinished. Maria-Anna Van den Tympel had a new chapel built against the keep in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, the complex must have been damaged by plundering and neglect, and it is possible that it also suffered from plundering during the Brabant Revolution of 1830. Around 1850, the castle must have been habitable again, but the castle buildings only served as a farm. In the land registry, the site around the castle is called "De Notelaren Boomgaerd". Around that time, the most dilapidated part must have been demolished, namely the southern part and the superstructure of the gate. The rest of the complex was probably restored with reused demolition material and in traditional style. The castle was divided in 1880, with one part being registered as a school house. In 1897, a further division followed, with two plots being designated as houses. Several restoration campaigns followed in the 20th century. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Horst Castle, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/43619
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Since December, there has been a spire on the castle again after the unstable spire was removed more than four years ago and could be viewed on a wooden platform in the pond. Now it is back. And the other works are also progressing quickly. More about the replaced spire on https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/10/torenspits-staat-weer-op-kasteel-van-horst-holsbeek/
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Begijnendijk offers a rich variety of natural landscapes. You can explore the extensive wetlands and forests of Demerbeemden, a large nature reserve ideal for birdwatching and walks like the Beemdenwandeling. Rogaarden features ancient oak forests and diverse habitats, while Palingspot is known for its rare butterflies and a repurposed tram line for cycling. Don't miss the picturesque Vineyard on the Wijngaardberg, often called 'Flemish Tuscany', which offers beautiful views and varied landscapes.
Yes, Begijnendijk is excellent for both walking and cycling. The Demer Towpath is a popular choice for serene walks and bike rides along the river. The region also boasts newly inaugurated landscape walks, such as the "Betekomse Beemdenwandeling," offering scenic routes through meadows and forests. For more structured outdoor adventures, you can find numerous hiking routes in the area, including the "Meetshovenwandeling" and the "Play Forest β Speldernis Bivouac Area loop from Betekom." You can explore more options on the Hiking around Begijnendijk guide.
A prominent historical landmark is Horst Castle, an idyllic 13th-century moated castle nestled in the Hageland hills. Within Begijnendijk, you can find historical structures like Hof van Uythem and Het Sint-Jozefsinstituut. The Pater Damiaan Bridge is also a notable steel girder bridge with historical significance, connecting Haacht and Tremelo.
Absolutely. The Iron sandstone formations on the Wijngaardberg are a unique natural monument, representing a historical aspect of local building material mining. Culturally, you might find interest in local establishments like Likeuren De Gent, offering a taste of regional products. The 'Happy Hageland'-app can also provide further insights into the region's cultural offerings.
Many attractions around Begijnendijk are suitable for families. Horst Castle is a popular spot that families enjoy, with its impressive moat and picturesque surroundings. The Demer Towpath and the Pater Damiaan Bridge are also great for family walks and bike rides, offering easy access and scenic views.
Beyond walking and cycling, Begijnendijk offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including easy loops like the "Blue Bridge β Information board Recreation Forest Bieheide loop from Begijnendijk." For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes such as the "Demervallei β Demerbroekstraat Path loop from Begijnendijk," and challenging MTB trails like the "Beninksberg Descent β Gravel climb Wijngaardberg loop from Betekom." Find more details on the Hiking around Begijnendijk, Gravel biking around Begijnendijk, and MTB Trails around Begijnendijk guides.
Yes, some attractions are noted for their accessibility. The Pater Damiaan Bridge is wheelchair accessible, providing a convenient link for pedestrians and cyclists. While the grounds of Horst Castle are generally accessible, the castle interior itself may pose difficulties for wheelchair users and buggies.
Begijnendijk's natural beauty can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring brings blossoming orchards, while summer offers lush green landscapes perfect for cycling and walking. Autumn provides vibrant colors, and even in winter, areas like the Wijngaardberg offer a unique experience. Many visitors note that the region is great in every season for outdoor exploration.
For ancient forests, visit Rogaarden, which hosts some of Begijnendijk's oldest oak forests. The Molenberg area also combines natural beauty with history, featuring forest trails and the ruins of a 14th-century mill. The Wijngaardberg is another unique natural and cultural landscape, known for its vineyard and interesting iron sandstone formations.
Demerbeemden is the largest project reserve in the area, encompassing over 60 hectares of diverse habitats, making it an excellent spot for observing waterfowl and amphibians. Rogaarden, with its varied environment and pools, is also home to wildlife like deer and hares. Palingspot is particularly renowned for the presence of the rare Brown Fritillary butterfly.
Visitors frequently praise the serene and picturesque nature of the region. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths for cycling and walking, especially along the Demer Towpath. The historical charm of Horst Castle and the beautiful views from the Wijngaardberg are also highly rated. The blend of natural beauty and historical sites offers a fulfilling experience for many.
While specific events are not listed here, the 'Happy Hageland'-app is a useful resource for visitors looking to delve deeper into the region's offerings, including additional information and exploration routes. Local churches like Sint-Laurentiuskerk and Sint-Luciakerk also serve as starting points for some local walking routes, indicating their community importance.


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