Top 15 most beautiful castles in the Ardennes
The Ardennes region, spanning Belgium, Luxembourg, and parts of France, is known for its rolling hills, deep forests, and charming villages. Nestled among this picturesque landscape are some of the most beautiful and historic castles in Europe.
These castles not only boast impressive architecture but also offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Here are some of the most beautiful castles in the belgian Ardennes.
Château de Freÿr
Highlights
- Stunning location: located along the Meuse River with picturesque views.
- Landscaped gardens: features fountains, statues, and a 350-year-old orange tree orchard.
- Historical significance: recognized as an ‘Exceptional Walloon Heritage.’
- Opulent interiors: stately rooms filled with period furniture and artwork.
- Notable visitors: historical figures such as Louis XIV and Prince Naruhito.
Often likened to France’s Château de Versailles, Château de Freÿr is a stunning Renaissance castle situated along the banks of the Meuse River, and one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium. Celebrated for its elegant architecture and historical importance, the château boasts meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with fountains, statues, and a remarkable 350-year-old orange tree orchard.
Guests can wander through the grand rooms filled with period furniture and artwork, while the terraces offer breathtaking views of the Meuse Valley. Nestled in a bend of the Upper Meuse River, with cliffs sculpted by the water, the château and its gardens create a harmonious ensemble within a majestic setting.
This picturesque site has been officially recognized as ‘Exceptional Walloon Heritage’. Over the years, numerous notable figures have been drawn to the allure of Freÿr, including Louis XIV, Stanislas Leszczynski, Marie-Christine of Austria, and Prince Naruhito of Japan.
Address: Freyr 12, 5540 Hastière, Belgium
Information
- Parking is available for busses, autos, bikes
- Mooring is available for boats
- Fresh drinks & coffee
- Souvenirs, books and postcards
- Dogs are allowed on a leash and only in the gardens
- Drones are strictly prohibited
Opening hours
- From March 29 to April 30: Saturday, Sunday & public holidays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- From May 1 to June 30: From Thursday to Sunday & public holidays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- From July 1 to August 31: Tuesday to Sunday & public holidays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- From September 1 to November 10: Saturday, Sunday & public holidays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Castle of Vêves
Highlights
- Fairytale setting: Château de Vêves is perched on a hill with six majestic towers.
- Historical significance: a prime example of 15th-century military architecture.
- Enchanting interior: fully furnished and still inhabited by the same family.
- Beautiful location: overlooks a stunning valley, enhancing its charm.
- Diverse exploration: features staircases, galleries, terraces, and a chapel for visitors to enjoy.
- Family-friendly: a captivating experience for both young and old alike.
- One of the most beautiful castles in the Ardennes
A true fairytale castle, Château de Vêves is majestically situated on a hill near Celles, featuring six stunning towers. Known as the Castle of Celles, this exceptional monument is a remarkable example of 15th-century military architecture.
With its impressive towers and exquisite woodwork, Château de Vêves appears to have stepped right out of a storybook.
Recognized as one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Belgium, it stands as an exceptional piece of Walloon heritage and has been voted the Walloons' favorite built heritage! Located just 10 minutes from Dinant, this enchanting site is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich history of Wallonia.
Overlooking a picturesque valley, the castle is just as charming on the inside, as it is still inhabited by the same family and remains fully furnished. Dubbed the ‘Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant’, it promises to enchant visitors of all ages. With winding staircases, galleries, terraces, spacious rooms, a chapel, and cozy cabinets, the castle invites you to wander and explore at your leisure. Visitors are encouraged to follow their own interests and available time as they progress from floor to floor. Address: Rue de Furfooz 3, 5561 Houyet, Belgium
Information
- Access by car: 30 min from Namur, 50 min from Charleroi, 1h15 from Brussels, 1h15 from Liège, 1h15 from Mons
- Parking: the Chateau has a parking lot at your disposal free of charge.
- Access by train: Dinant train station, 15 min by cab from the Castle.
- Animals are not allowed in the castle
Opening hours
- During the carnival vacations (from 24/025 to 10/03)
- The castle is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.
- From March 30st to November 3th: the castle is open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- From July 6th to August 25st: the castle is open every day (Monday to Sunday) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Castle of Walzin
Highlights
- Scenic location: nestled on a steep cliff overlooking the Lesse River.
- Gothic revival architecture: a beautiful example of Gothic Revival style.
- Kayaking opportunities: popular routes provide stunning views of the castle from the water.
- Picturesque views: recognized as one of the most picturesque castles in Belgium.
Walzin Castle is located in the city of Dinant, within the Wallonia region of Belgium, specifically in the province of Namur.
This Gothic Revival castle is perched on a steep rock above the right bank of the Lesse River, approximately 5 kilometers upstream from where it merges with the Meuse River. The area is popular for kayaking, providing stunning views of the castle from the Lesse Valley.
Dramatically situated on a cliff overlooking the Lesse River, Château de Walzin is recognized as one of Belgium’s most picturesque castles.
Although it is privately owned and not accessible to the public, its striking location and impressive exterior can be admired from nearby trails and the riverbanks.
Address: Rue de Walzin 1, 5500 Dinant, Belgium
Castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne
Highlights
- One of the most beautiful castles in Wallonia
- 32 Rooms to explore: each room is exquisitely furnished and decorated.
- Historical insights: learn about the lavish lifestyles of the lords and the customs of rural life in the 19th century.
- Diverse wildlife display: an impressive collection of stuffed animals highlighting local fauna.
- Child-friendly activities: engaging dress-up opportunities for young visitors.
The Castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne (French: Château de Lavaux-Sainte-Anne) is situated in Wallonia, close to Rochefort in the Province of Namur, Belgium. The construction of the castle was commissioned by Jean II de Berlo in 1450. Visitors are invited to leisurely explore the 32 furnished and decorated rooms of the castle. One highlight is the Museum of the Life of the Lords of Lavaux, which offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the 17th-century inhabitants. In the cellars, exhibits portray rural life in Famenne through various everyday objects, customs, and festivals from the late 19th century.
On the first floor, the Museum of Nature and Hunting showcases an impressive collection of stuffed animals, highlighting the diverse wildlife found in the Famenne region. Children can also enjoy dressing up, adding to the interactive experience. This section details the history and folklore of hunting, a major pastime for the lords of Lavaux, along with the management of wild game.
The castle grounds also feature a wetland area, comprising a pond, marsh, and meadow, which has been reconstructed to reflect the typical ecosystem of the Famenne landscape during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This ecological zone serves as a sanctuary for plants, insects, and birds, helping to preserve these increasingly vulnerable species that play essential roles in the environment. Address: Rue du Château, 85580 Lavaux-Sainte-Anne
Information
- Accessible by public transport from Jemelle or Beauraing stations
- Accessible by car: E411 Exit 22A (Brussels -> Luxembourg). Exit 23 (Luxembourg -> Brussels)
- Free parking
- House-trained and well-behaved dogs are allowed
- Duration of the visit: between 1h and 3h
- Pushchairs are not permitted in the castle
- There is a picnic area on the premises
Opening hours
- The castle is open from Wednesday to Sunday all year round from 10 am to 6 pm (last admission at 4.45 pm).
- It is open 7 days on all school holidays and public holidays (closed on 13 April, 03 August, 30 October, 24, 25, 31 December and 1 January)
Citadelle de Dinant
Highlights
- Climbing options: visitors can choose between the historic 408-step staircase or the modern cable car.
- Stunning views: breathtaking panoramic vistas of Dinant and its surroundings.
- Dining experience: various restaurants are available, offering options for all tastes and budgets.
While the Citadelle de Dinant is more of a military fortress than a traditional castle, it stands as an iconic landmark. Perched high above the Meuse River, this fortress provides sweeping views of the city of Dinant and the surrounding valley. Visitors can reach the citadel via a cable car, where they can explore the fortifications and delve into its rich military history.
Nestled on a rocky spur overlooking Dinant, the citadel has served as a museum of arms and history for over a century. Once the second-largest town in the Principality of Liège during the Middle Ages, Dinant, known as the city of the "Copères," took pride in its dinanderie, the art of copper craftsmanship, and had connections to the Germanic Hanseatic League.
To reach the top of the Dinant Citadel, visitors have the option of ascending the 408-step staircase, which dates back to 1577, or taking the cable car, constructed in 1956 and renovated in 2019, to enjoy breathtaking views of Dinant.
Additionally, a visit to the citadel offers a chance to savor a meal with family or friends, as there are various restaurants on-site that cater to all tastes and budgets.
Address: Chem. de la Citadelle 1, 5500 Dinant, Belgium
Information
- A large car park (capacity of 150 vehicles) behind the Citadel can be accessed from the plateau without causing any traffic problems in the city of Dinant or paying parking meter fees.
- 9 kilometers from the E411 Brussels-Luxembourg motorway, exit 20
- Disabled access to the Citadel is only through the top of the site.
- Two free parking areas for coaches and cars and a bicycle rack (at the top of the Citadel).
- Railway station at a distance of 250 m
- There are restaurants inside the citadel
Opening hours
- April to September: open every day from 10 am to 6 pm/Cable car open
- October to 11th November: open every day from 10 am to 5:30 pm/Cable car open
- 11th November to March: open every day from 10 am to 4:30 pm (except Fridays)/Cable car open (weekends and school holidays)
- January: open weekends and school holidays/Closed during the week/Cable car open
Château de Fontaine
Highlights
- Historical significance: originally built in the 13th century at a strategic crossroads.
- Seigniory of Fontaine: served as the seat for several nearby villages, part of the County of Namur and the Prince-Bishopric of Liège.
- Architectural features: combines medieval elements with structures from the 16th and 17th centuries, including a square tower from the Middle Ages.
Fontaine Castle, known locally as Château de Fontaine, is situated in a forest south of the village of Anthée, within the province of Namur in the Wallonia region of Belgium.
Originally constructed in the 13th century, Fontaine Castle was strategically located at the junction of the main road from Namur to Luxembourg and the road from Dinant to Liège. It served as the seat of the seigniory of Fontaine, which encompassed the villages of Anthée, Morville, and Miavoye. This territory was part of the County of Namur and Agimont, and it was associated with the Prince-Bishopric of Liège. In 1289, the castle was owned by a lady named Yde de Fontaine.
The current structure of the castle was built during the 16th and 17th centuries, incorporating elements from its medieval predecessor.
The square tower located at the northeast corner dates back to the Middle Ages, while the buildings surrounding the outer courtyard were constructed in the 17th century for agricultural use.
In 1840, the castle was sold by the Jacquier de Rosée family to the Count of Ribiano. His daughter, Jeanne, married Baron Gustave de Senzeille, and after having no children, she later bequeathed the property to Count Fernand de Beaufort.
Fernand sold the castle in 1907 to Viscount Eugène de Jonghe, who restored Fontaine Castle in a neo-traditional style between 1907 and 1909, raising the towers and adding more windows.
Today, the castle domain is privately owned, and several years ago, all the buildings were converted into luxury apartments.
Address: Château-de-Fontaine 1/C, 5520 Anthée, Belgium
Castle of Chimay
Highlights
- Historical significance: one of the oldest noble residences in Belgium, with a rich history
- Family activities: features a recently built mini-golf course and an escape room
- Cultural events: hosts musical performances in its 19th-century theater, enhancing the visitor experience.
- One of the most interesting castle visits in the Ardennes
Chimay Castle (French: Château de Chimay) is located in Chimay, Hainaut, in the Wallonia region of Belgium. This historic château has been owned by the Prince of Chimay and his ancestors for centuries and is open to the public for tours during part of the year.
Though the castle suffered significant damage in a fire in 1935, it was carefully rebuilt, and renovations are still ongoing under the stewardship of the current generation of the princely family.
As one of the oldest noble residences in Belgium, the castle remains inhabited by the descendants of the Prince of Chimay. Today, it stands as a well-preserved historical site that periodically opens its doors to tourists. A mini-golf course has recently been added to the estate, and the castle also hosts musical performances in its 19th-century theater, which draws visitors.
Additionally, the castle features an escape room experience, themed around locating Philippe de Riquet de Caraman-Chimay, the 22nd Prince of Chimay, offering a fun and engaging activity for the whole family.
Address: Rue du Château 14, 6460 Chimay, Belgium
Information
- Limited wheelchair. access
- Small dogs are allowed in a carrier bag.
- TEC bus line: Line 109a from Charleroi & Line 57 from Mons
- Couvin train station (17km to Chimay)
- The castle recommends the Grand Place and Place Léopold parking lots.
Opening hours
The Princes of Chimay open the doors of their private Château for visits. You should check the opening schedule on the official Le Chateau de Chimay website and reserve your preferred date.
Château de Jannée
Highlights
- Historical significance: a serene 17th-century country house with a rich history influenced by various noble families.
- Public access: open to the public since the 1970s, featuring a collection of paintings, engravings, antique porcelain, and period furnishings.
- Idyllic setting: located beside a pond and framed by forest, at the confluence of two valleys, enhancing its picturesque appearance.
Located along the historic Luxembourg-Brussels road, which extends as far as Trier, the history of Château de Jannée is influenced by its geographical position south of the Sambre et Meuse furrow and its various occupants, including the House of Luxembourg, the Boulogne family, and the Rougrave family.
From the Middle Ages until the early 17th century, it functioned as a small fortified house, providing refuge for people and property during frequent attacks due to its proximity to the road to Trier. The structure was flanked by an outbuilding and surrounded by a protective moat, with a typical Walloon farm extending across the fields beyond the walls.
In the early 19th century, during a time of peace and prosperity, Baroness de Woot de Jannée relocated a hamlet to the area, constructing farms, a church, and a presbytery. She landscaped the ponds and an English park, while also expanding the château by adding a tower at each corner.
Although the château survived both World Wars, it did sustain some damage. It was repurposed as a German hospital in 1914 and later as a British hospital in 1944, suffering nearly complete destruction by fire in August 1944 during a battle involving the Walloon Legion and the Secret Army.
Many occupants were arrested, and nearly half perished in the camps. Once peace returned, the château resumed its function as a residence.
Since the 1970s, it has been open to the public, showcasing a remarkable collection of paintings, engravings, and antique porcelain, along with furniture and furnishings dating back to 1840.
Address: Château de Jannée, 5590 Ciney, Belgium
Opening hours
Open all year round by appointment, visitors have to contact the castle to schedule a visit.
Castle of Deulin
Highlights
- 18th-century architecture: an exquisite example of elegant design from the 1700s.
- Privately owned: still in the hands of the Harlez family while hosting events and weddings.
- Lavish Interior: decorated with rococo stuccos by François-Joseph Dukers and paintings by Jean-Dieudonne Deneux.
- Stunning views: overlooks the Ourthe River and includes landscaped gardens with heritage trees from the 19th century.
- Exceptional Walloon Heritage: designated as part of this heritage since 2002.
This graceful château, situated near Hotton, is a stunning representation of 18th-century architecture. Surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens and parkland, Château de Deulin remains privately owned while also hosting events and weddings, making it one of the most enchanting estates in the region.
Constructed in 1758 by Guillaume Joseph de Harlez, the château was later completed and adorned by his son, Simon-Joseph de Harlez, in 1770. Its unique U-shape features a blend of whitewashed bricks and blue stones topped with slate roofs, enclosing an inner courtyard surrounded by outbuildings.
The seigniorial chapel, dedicated to Saint Remacle, boasts intricate stucco work and a baroque altar. Inside, the château is lavishly decorated, showcasing rococo stuccos by artist François-Joseph Dukers and paintings by Jean-Dieudonne Deneux.
To the north, a walled garden from the 18th century was transformed into a French garden at the beginning of the 20th century. At the rear, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Ourthe River and the landscaped garden, which features notable heritage trees from the latter half of the 19th century.
Recognized as part of the Exceptional Walloon Heritage since 2002, the château is currently home to Stéphane and Dominique de Harlez de Deulin and their children.
Address: Rue du Château B-6990 Deulin (Hotton), Belgium
Opening hours
The castle is open for events such as weddings and also sometimes hosts different kinds of seasonal exhibitions. Visitors can make an appointment to see the antique furniture and ornaments displayed in the Chateau.
Château de Modave
Highlights
- Architectural elegance: a stunning example of 17th-century Ardennes architecture with a classical façade.
- Breathtaking views: offers panoramic vistas of the Hoyoux Valley from its elevated position.
- Historical significance: home to notable figures like the Count de Marchin and Maximilian-Henry of Bavaria.
- Protected heritage: recognized as part of the Major Heritage of Wallonia since 1993.
Château de Modave stands as a refined and elegant representation of Ardennes architecture, showcasing its grandeur as a 17th-century castle perched on a rocky outcrop with breathtaking views of the Hoyoux Valley. The castle's interiors are richly adorned with Baroque furnishings, exquisite tapestries, and stunning sculptures, while the surrounding park and gardens enhance its charm, providing a tranquil retreat for visitors eager to immerse themselves in a world of aristocratic luxury.
Situated 60 meters (200 feet) above the valley of the Hoyoux River, the castle boasts magnificent vistas over the expansive 450-hectare (1,100-acre) nature reserve from its recently restored terrace.
Throughout its history, this castle in the Ardennes has been home to several notable figures, including the Count de Marchin, who significantly influenced its current appearance, as well as Maximilian-Henry of Bavaria, Prince Bishop of Liège, Cardinal von Fürstenberg, and the families de Montmorency, Lamarche, and Braconier. Since 1941, it has been owned by VIVAQUA.
Originally built in the Middle Ages, Modave Castle underwent partial demolition in the 17th century before being restored with a classical façade that transformed it into an elegant country house. The formal gardens, designed in an old-world style, further contribute to its allure.
Inside, remarkable 17th-century stuccowork adorns the ceilings, while the walls feature intricately carved paneling, tapestries, and large paintings. The furnishings, which include exceptional pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries, perfectly complement this historic setting.
An audioguide available in eight languages allows visitors to explore more than 25 rooms of this unique site, which has been part of the Major Heritage of Wallonia since 1993.
Address: Rue du Parc 4, 4577 Modave, Belgium.
Information
- Picnic room available in the old stables
- Audioguide in 8 languages
- Dogs and prams are not allowed inside the castle
- Wheelchair access: ground floor only
- Bus line 126A connects to the castle
- Huy station is located 15 kms from the premises
- Parking is free of charge
Opening hours
The summer and winter opening times differ, so it is recommended to visit the official website to see opening times and special events.
Castle of Poilvache
Highlights
- Size and significance: one of the largest medieval ruins in Belgium.
- Scenic location: perched on a rocky outcrop with stunning views of the Meuse River Valley.
- Architectural remnants: offers a haunting glimpse into its grand past through extensive remains.
One of Belgium’s largest medieval ruins, Château de Poilvache is dramatically situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Meuse River. The remnants of the castle provide a haunting glimpse into its once-magnificent past, while the surrounding views of the river valley are nothing short of breathtaking.
This expansive fortress was constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries and served as one of the largest strongholds of its time in the Meuse Valley. The earliest known castle on this site, referred to as Château d'Émeraude (Emerald Castle), dates back to the 10th century.
Château de Poilvache was not owned by an independent lord, rather, it functioned as the fortress of the provostship of Poilvache. This meant it served as a medieval military, judicial, and administrative center, effectively acting as a "State fortress" originally belonging to the County of Luxembourg.
Address: Chem. de Poilvache, 5530 Yvoir, Belgium
Information
- Access is free
- Guided tours are possible
- Parking possible on-site
- Pets should be kept on a leash
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Poilvache is located 20 km south of Namur and 7 km north of Dinant
Opening hours
Poilvache is open from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm every day in July and August and on weekends only from April to June and September to the end of October.
Castle of Spontin
Highlights
- Reconstruction: rebuilt after the destruction but dismantled again in 1554 by François I, Duke of Nevers, on behalf of French King Henry II.
- Ownership: privately owned since the mid-19th century, not open to the public.
- Visitor attraction: despite its private status, the castle’s exterior and grounds remain a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
Spontin Castle, known locally as Château de Spontin, is situated in the village of Spontin in the Namur province of Belgium's Wallonia region.
Originally constructed by the Lords of Beaufort, its first fortifications were built by Pierre de Beaufort between 1266 and 1289. In 1289, his son, Guillaume II de Beaufort, was granted the fiefdom by Henry VII, Count of Luxembourg, in recognition of his services. The Beaufort-Spontin family retained ownership of the castle until the mid-19th century.
The castle initially featured a formidable rectangular keep on a small island in the Bocq River. Guillaume II expanded it by adding towers, curtain walls, and a gatehouse, giving the structure a square layout.
In 1429, Spontin Castle was unsuccessfully besieged by troops from the city of Liège. However, in 1465/66, it faced another siege by forces from Dinant, who succeeded in capturing and destroying it.
The castle was later rebuilt, only to be taken and dismantled once more in 1554 by François I, Duke of Nevers, commander of King Henry II of France’s army.
Although now privately owned and closed to the public, the castle’s striking exterior and historic grounds continue to attract visitors with an interest in the region’s feudal past.
Address: Chau. de Dinant 16, 5530 Yvoir, Belgium
Castle of Franchimont
Highlights
- Historic fortress: a 12th-century castle with a rich history.
- Medieval Fair: an event that brings the castle's history to life every two years.
- Architectural insights: illustrate the evolution of military architecture influenced by black powder artillery.
Château de Franchimont, near Theux, is a 12th-century fortress steeped in history. Visitors can explore its impressive ruins, including dungeons, ramparts, and underground passages. Every two years during summer, a medieval fair brings the castle's past to life, offering an immersive historical experience. Originally one of the twelve strongholds of the Bishop of Liège, Franchimont Castle defended the eastern borders of the principality from the 11th and 12th centuries onwards.
Though heavily damaged during the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century, its remains are still striking, allowing visitors to grasp the evolution of military architecture, especially in response to the development of black powder artillery.
Key structural elements of the castle remain intact or have been restored, such as the dungeon, pillboxes, squirrel-cage crane, bread oven, and a guardroom.
The site is owned by the municipality of Theux, with tourism management and volunteer restoration overseen by the “Franchimont Companions” association.
Extensive archaeological research has been conducted at the site, and ongoing conservation efforts aim to blend these studies with sustainable restoration projects to preserve this important heritage for future generations.
Address: All. du Château 17, 4910 Theux, Belgium
Information
- Large parking lot, accessible for cars and buses
- The castle is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility, dedicated parking spots are located near the entrance
- The castle is also accessible by train: Aachen-Verviers-Spa, train-stop Franchimont, and then a 500-meter uphill walk
- By bus: line 388, bus-stop Saint-Roch, and then a 500-meter uphill walk
- Audioguide available on-site
Opening hours
- From the 1st of May to the 30th of September: every day from 11:00 to 18:00
- Closed on the 2nd and 3rd of August
- In April and October: weekends from 11:00 to 17:00
- Easter and Autumn holidays: every day from 11:00 to 17:00
Château de Bouillon
Highlights
- Exploration opportunities: dungeons, battlements, and secret passageways to discover.
- Falconry demonstrations: live displays of falconry for visitors.
- Breathtaking views: 360-degree panorama from the Austria Tower.
Château de Bouillon stands majestically on a hill, overlooking the charming town of Bouillon and the picturesque Semois River. Recognized as one of the most iconic medieval fortresses in the Ardennes and Wallonia, this historic castle dates back to the 10th century and was once the residence of Godfrey of Bouillon, a prominent figure in the First Crusade.
During the tumultuous wars of Louis XIV, the castle underwent extensive renovations by the renowned military architect Vauban and remained a military stronghold until 1830. With its towering walls, hidden passageways, and stunning views, Château de Bouillon is an absolute must-visit destination.
Guests can delve into the castle’s dungeons, stroll along the battlements, and enjoy captivating falconry demonstrations. Additionally, the view from the Austria Tower offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the medieval town of Bouillon, making it a highlight of any visit.
Address: Esplanade Godefroy 1, 6830 Bouillon, Belgium.
Information
- The castle is not wheelchair accessible
- Strollers should be left at the entrance
- The esplanade of Bouillon Castle has a free parking lot with around fifty spaces. If, however, it is full, there are many free parking spaces available in Bouillon.
- To visit Bouillon by public transport, you have to stop at Libramont train station and then take bus line 8 towards Bouillon.
- Animals - no dogs allowed on the premises of Château de Bouillon
Opening hours
- Opening hours depend on the month and day of your visit.
- Usually during high-season, summer months, you can visit the castle between 10:00 - 18:00 and 10:00 - 20:00.
- Between October and March, it is either 10:00 - 17:00 and 13:00 - 17:00.
- During most of the month of January the castle is closed.
We highly recommend checking the opening dates and hours before planning your visit.
Castle of Jehay
Highlights
- Distinctive architecture: Château de Jehay features unique checkerboard brickwork, making it an architectural masterpiece from the Renaissance period.
- Scenic location: the castle is set near Liège, surrounded by beautifully landscaped parks and gardens adorned with fountains, sculptures, and rare plant species.
- Impressive interiors: inside, the château houses an exceptional collection of art, period furniture, and decorative pieces, offering insights into the lifestyle of its noble residents
Château de Jehay, with its striking checkerboard brickwork, stands as a true architectural masterpiece. Located near Liège, this Renaissance-era castle is set within stunning parkland and gardens that feature fountains, sculptures, and rare plant species. Inside, the château boasts an impressive collection of art and period furnishings, offering visitors a glimpse into the refined life of its noble inhabitants.
The seigniory of Jehay has its roots in the Middle Ages, but it was during the 15th century that its fate truly began to take shape.
In 1428, the estate was confiscated from Wathieu Datin by the Prince-Bishop and changed hands through several noble families, including the Gossuin de Beine, de Towin, and de Sart families.
In 1537, Jehan Helman de Sart, who had inherited the estate, undertook the construction of a new castle. However, it was the marriage of his daughter Jeanne to Arnould de Merode that solidified the Merode family’s ownership of Jehay for nearly two centuries.
In 1720, the estate was purchased by Lambert van den Steen, a seigneur of Saive and advisor to the Prince-Bishop. His family held onto Jehay for 280 years, contributing to the grandeur and splendor that can still be admired today.
Since 2000, the Province of Liège has been conducting significant restoration work on the site. The ongoing restoration of the château, combined with historical and archaeological research, promises to unveil new insights into this remarkable heritage site, enhancing its appeal as a major tourist destination.
Address: Rue du Parc 1, 4540 Amay, Belgium
Information
- Access for the disabled
- Parking space available
- Charging station for electric cars
Opening hours
- From Tuesday to Friday, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- Weekends and public holidays, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- The estate usually welcomes tourists from March to October
- Closed on Mondays and on 1 May.
Conclusion
The castles of the Ardennes, from imposing fortresses to elegant Renaissance estates, offer a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether it's the fairytale turrets of Vêves, the dramatic cliffs of Walzin, or the grandeur of Chimay, each castle has its own story to tell.
Exploring these historic landmarks provides visitors with an unforgettable journey through time, set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.