Top 20 Castles around Lochristi
Best castles around Lochristi are situated in this municipality in East Flanders, Belgium, offering insights into the region's history. The area features historical structures, including castles, that provide diverse exploration opportunities. While some grander castles are located in nearby cities, Lochristi itself presents notable examples. The landscape combines historical sites with natural settings, providing varied experiences for visitors.
Best castles around Lochristi
- The most popular castles is Gravensteen Castle, a castle that is the only remaining medieval castle in…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Gravensteen Castle
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Berlare Castle Park
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The castle and outbuildings are not open to the public, but the park is.
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Geeraard the Devil's Castle
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Puyenbrug Castle
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Wippelgem Castle
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Tips from the Community
The Geeraard de Duivelsteen is a building in the Belgian city of Ghent. The stone played an important role in the defense of the Portus on the Reep, a trading settlement that was at the cradle of the origin of Ghent. It is a former Gothic stone (stone house of a nobleman) from the 13th century, named after knight Geeraard van Gent, nicknamed Geeraard de Duivel. He was the third son of a viscount of Ghent, Zeger III. The building became the property of the city in the 14th century. Over the centuries it fulfilled various functions: knight's residence, weapons arsenal, monastery, school, episcopal seminary, insane asylum and prison until the Rasphuis on the Coupure took over that task in 1775. In 1830 a fire station was set up there. At the end of the 19th century, the Geraard de Duivelsteen was purchased by the government to house the State Archives of Ghent. Under the leadership of Arthur Verhaegen, the building was restored between 1891 and 1908 and expanded with a new wing, which housed the reading room and the offices of the archive staff. The building remained in use as an archive until 2015. In 2016, it was purchased for 2,205,000 euros by the Ghent holding company NV Koiba. The building is being converted into a youth centre. In addition, there will be a few residential units; the former quay wall is being restored. The building has undergone so many changes since the Middle Ages that the square keep (left in the photo), which was lowered too much during the last restoration in the 19th century, is barely recognisable. However, this keep can point to a function that refers to an older past. The keep, located along the partially filled-in Scheldt and within the semi-circular moat from the 9th century that surrounded Ghent at the time, may have had a defensive function at the time.
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During the preparation of the works, all areas of the castle and the outbuildings were cleared of "disturbing elements", so that the rooms now show their spaciousness of yesteryear in all their glory. Some interesting notes also emerged that provide a unique view of the history of the castle. This is how they came across the signatures of the craftsmen who worked in the castle in the distant past. Source: https://www.berlare.be/
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In-depth restoration work on the castle has started since May 2023. The historic castle, outbuildings and orangery will be repurposed as the administrative center for municipal services. The works will last two years. The castle park will remain accessible during the works. Although certain parts are currently closed due to the site organization and the safety of visitors. The castle is now barely visible (as my photos show).
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Very occasionally an exhibition is organized here (such as that of photographer Carl De Keyzer in December 2021 to February 2022), what an exceptional opportunity to see the inside of this building with a rich history. Grab that chance!
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Very beautiful castle and park. More information: https://www.meetjesland.be/kasteel-van-wippelgem
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Over the centuries it was used as a knight's residence, armory, monastery, school and episcopal seminary. In 1623 there was a madhouse for the insane and a home for male orphans. Another part of the building was used as a prison or detention house.
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Puyenbrug Castle is a castle built in 1881 that has been part of the Puyenbroeck provincial domain since its foundation in 1965. Since 1976, this building has housed the Mill Museum, Mola. Wikipedia Address: Puyenbrug 5, 9185 Wachtebeke Opening hours: Closed ⋅ Opens Wed at 9:30am · More times Telephone: 09 342 42 40
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical experiences do the castles around Lochristi offer?
The castles in and around Lochristi provide a rich historical experience. For instance, Gravensteen Castle, though located in nearby Ghent, is a significant medieval fortress with an almost intact defense system, now serving as a museum showcasing weapons and instruments of torture. Closer to Lochristi, the Puyenbrug Castle, built in 1881, houses the Mill Museum, Mola, offering a different historical perspective.
Are there castles with accessible parks or natural features for walking?
Yes, several castles around Lochristi are set within beautiful parklands that are accessible to the public. Berlare Castle Park features a large landscaped garden with avenues, a forest, and ponds, open to walkers and cyclists. Similarly, the grounds of Wippelgem Castle, comprising 27 hectares, are freely accessible from sunrise to sunset for walking and jogging.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Lochristi?
The region around Lochristi offers various outdoor activities, often near castle domains. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For example, you can explore the 'Scheldt Riverside Path' for road cycling or the 'Zuidlede–Moervaart Junction' for MTB trails. For more details on routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Lochristi, MTB Trails around Lochristi, and Gravel biking around Lochristi guides.
Are there family-friendly castles or activities for children?
Many castles in the area are family-friendly, particularly those with extensive parks. Berlare Castle Park and Wippelgem Castle both offer large, accessible grounds perfect for family walks and outdoor play. Puyenbrug Castle, housing the Mill Museum, can also be an engaging visit for children interested in history and mechanics.
Can I visit the Kasteel van Saffelaere in Lochristi?
The Kasteel van Saffelaere in Lochristi is primarily known as an elegant event venue, ideal for weddings and corporate gatherings. While its interior is not regularly open for public tours, visitors can experience its refined ambiance, enjoy culinary delights at its restaurant 'Aurum' located in the former orangery, and appreciate the serene beauty of its surrounding park.
Is the Castle of Beervelde accessible to the public?
The Castle of Beervelde, located in the village of Beervelde, is generally a private estate and its interior is not accessible to the public. However, its impressive exterior and grounds can be admired. The castle occasionally opens its doors for special events or temporary viewings, offering rare opportunities to explore its extensive gardens and historical architecture.
What are the parking options at castles near Lochristi?
Parking availability varies by castle. For example, Berlare Castle Park and Wippelgem Castle are known to have parking facilities for visitors accessing their parks. For Kasteel van Saffelaere, ample parking is available, especially for event attendees.
Are there any castles that are dog-friendly in the Lochristi area?
Yes, some castle parks are dog-friendly. For instance, at Wippelgem Castle, dogs are permitted on the hiking trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific regulations for each location before visiting with your dog.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and their parks?
The best time to visit the castles and their parks around Lochristi is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. During these periods, the weather is more pleasant for exploring the outdoor grounds and parks, and the gardens are often in full bloom or displaying beautiful autumn colors. Specific events or temporary viewings at private castles like Beervelde might also influence your timing.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Lochristi?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical architecture and natural beauty. The komoot community has shared over 800 photos and given more than 1100 upvotes for the castles in the region. Highlights like Gravensteen Castle are praised for their medieval defense systems and museum exhibits, while others like Berlare Castle Park are loved for their accessible, landscaped gardens perfect for walks and cycling.
Can I reach the castles near Lochristi by public transport?
Public transport accessibility varies. Kasteel van Saffelaere, for example, is noted for its public transport accessibility. For other castles, especially those with extensive grounds, it's advisable to check local bus routes or train connections to the nearest towns and then plan for a short walk or taxi ride to the specific castle entrance.
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