Best castles around Auderghem - Oudergem are found in a region characterized by its proximity to the Sonian Forest, offering a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. This area, part of Brussels, features various châteaux that range from stately homes to historical sites. The castles here provide insight into the region's past, from ducal hunting lodges to residences of aristocratic families.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Popular around Auderghem - Oudergem
Two important lordships formed the basis of the current Hoeilaart: the lordship of Ter Heyde south of the IJse on the one hand, and the lordship of Holaer or Hoeilaart north of the IJse on the other. Here once stood the castle of the Ter Heyde lordship from the fifteenth century. That lordship ceased to exist after the abolition of the ancien régime. The current castle was built in 1858 on the orders of baron Jean de Man d’Attenrode (mayor of Hoeilaart from 1854-1878) and his wife Maria Carolina d’Ormesson. It is therefore not a remnant of the old lordship. BUT: the chapel and former closed farm next to it are. This building has now, as others have mentioned, been given a different function and dominates the view in the park. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Kasteel van Hoeilaart, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/39785
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Viron Castle, designed by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar in 1862, is now used as the town hall. The castle is situated at the highest point of Dilbeek's municipal park, north of the Sint-Alenatoren tower. The ice cellar is located west of the castle along Heetveldelaan. The castle, its outbuildings, and the park were designated as a protected monument and village view in 1990. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Excellent quality hotel and restaurant
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To see and don't hesitate to get lost there
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Beautiful but very busy. Good to know!
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Early in the morning to avoid the crowds
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Le Château du Lac is best known today as a 5-star hotel. Events are also often organised there and that is why I know it from a professional long-gone past. But the building, whether you call it a castle or rather a glorified villa, it does have a fairly intense past. In the past, the mineral water of Genval was collected and bottled here. Together with the source of Bonne Fontaine, the Château du Lac was the true symbol of Genval-les-Eaux. The Etablissement des Eaux, as it was originally called, was built between 1905 and 1907 by the architect Julien Wendrickx, the future production director of the Compagnie Internationale des Eaux Minérales, to house the collection of sources and the bottling of the mineral water of Genval. After the First World War and the receivership of the companies that managed the Genval site, the castle became the property of an English company before being taken over by the Princes of Merode, who leased the facilities to Schweppes Belgium. The Belgian branch was then managed by John Martin, an English brewer based in Antwerp, who had been importing beers from Great Britain and Ireland to the continent since 1909, including the famous Guinness. He obtained the exclusive production rights for the Schweppes range, which he transferred to Genval in 1952 following the deterioration in the quality of Antwerp's drinking water, which was now pumped into the Albert Canal. Since the divestment of Schweppes in 1988, the John Martin group has further diversified its range, with speciality beers (Timmermans, Gordon, etc.), soft drinks (Orangina) and fruit juices (Looza). After the Schweppes factory moved to Rue du Cerf, the château, now owned by the Martin family, was converted into the five-star Château du Lac Source: https://www.parismatch.be/lifestyle/voyages/2020/08/23/le-lac-de-genval-et-ses-villas-2D3Q25DBTVANBFBV5WXJG3R2NI/
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The Genval lake is located in the Zilverbeek valley. The artificial lake is located for the most part on the territory of Overijse and was constructed by order of lawyer and businessman Gustave Smets - Mondez. The 18 ha lake was constructed in 1904 in an area with a series of spring-rich ponds and marshes through which the Zilverbeek or the Argentine flowed. The Zilverbeek still flows along the lake on the Overijse side. The area attracted many tourists from the very beginning. Around 1900, the urban development plans were also drawn up for the construction of the park on the Walloon side. Several impressive villas were built here that were reminiscent of copies of buildings from Versailles and monuments on the Swiss Lake Lucerne. On the Overijse side, there was less interest in the construction, which is why the slopes are less developed than on the Walloon side, where it was promoted as a spa. After the First World War, the lake was sold to John Martin (1886-1966), an English brewer from Antwerp. He would establish the Schweppes factory here (Belgian license) in the "Château du Lac" (until 1981). The lake is still in the hands of his heirs. On the Meerlaan there are still a few cottage-style villas overlooking the lake. These villas are depicted on various old postcards and are still recognizable today but have been heavily modified. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Maleizen, https://id.erfgoed.net/themas/14294
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The châteaux in Auderghem - Oudergem are rich in history, ranging from medieval origins to 20th-century aristocratic residences. For instance, the Château of Val-Duchesse, built on the site of a 13th-century priory, is historically significant as the 'cradle of a united Europe' where treaties establishing the European Economic Community were drafted. The Château of Trois-Fontaines, though largely in ruins, was originally a ducal hunting lodge and even served as a prison, offering a glimpse into medieval times.
Yes, several châteaux in the region showcase distinct architectural styles. The Château of Val-Duchesse features an elegant Louis XVI style, while the Château de la Solitude is a notable example of early 20th-century neoclassical architecture. Further afield, De Viron Castle in Dilbeek is a striking Neo-Tudor style building designed in 1862, known for its 12 towers and 365 windows.
While some châteaux are private or have limited access, several offer beautiful parks. The Château de La Hulpe is not accessible itself, but its large park and gardens are freely accessible. Similarly, Domaine Solvay, which houses the Château de Béthune, is a public park covering 227 hectares of forest, lawn, and ponds, perfect for exploration.
Many of the castle estates in the region are family-friendly due to their expansive parks and natural settings. Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay are excellent choices, offering vast green spaces for children to play and explore. The parks often feature walking paths suitable for all ages.
The castles in this region are often nestled within or near the beautiful Sonian Forest, offering a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. You can expect to find lush forests, serene lakes, and well-maintained gardens. For example, the Château de la Solitude is set near the Sonian Forest, and the Château of Trois-Fontaines is located directly within it, surrounded by greenery.
Absolutely. The proximity to the Sonian Forest means many castles are excellent starting points for outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Rouge-Cloître Lake – Three Fountains Pond loop' or the 'Fallen Tree Bridge – Stone Throne in the Sonian Forest loop'. For more options, explore the running trails around Auderghem - Oudergem.
Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. Road cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes like the 'Ijskelderlaan Climb – Red Cloister Abbey loop' or the 'View of the Leefdaal Valley – F3 Cycle Path Near Kronenberg loop'. For more details on routes, check out the road cycling routes around Auderghem - Oudergem.
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical architecture with the serene natural environment. The large, freely accessible parks, like those at Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay, are highly appreciated for their beauty and tranquility. The opportunity to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities like walking and cycling is also a major draw.
Auderghem - Oudergem is part of Brussels, which has a well-developed public transport network. While specific routes vary for each château, many are accessible via bus, tram, or metro connections followed by a walk. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the specific castle you plan to visit.
Yes, Château Sainte-Anne, built in 1902, now serves as an international club. It promotes cultural exchange among members from EU, NATO, and diplomatic corps, making it a vibrant gathering place with facilities like tennis courts and dining options.
The best time to visit the castles and their parks is generally during spring (April-May) when gardens are in bloom, or autumn (September-October) for beautiful fall foliage. Summer (June-August) also offers pleasant weather for exploring the grounds, though it can be busier. Winter visits can be charming, especially if you enjoy crisp walks, but some facilities might have reduced hours.
The Château of Trois-Fontaines is a captivating example. While largely in ruins, with only the foundations of its tower remaining and an adjacent building preserving a monumental Gothic fireplace, it offers a tangible connection to its past as a ducal hunting lodge and prison. It's considered a captivating tourist attraction set within lush greenery, though public access is often limited to special occasions like Heritage Days.


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