Castles around Beerse offer insights into the region's historical architecture and estate management. Located in the province of Antwerp, Beerse and its surroundings feature a mix of historical buildings, from early 20th-century estates to older fortified structures. The area provides opportunities to explore historical sites within a rural landscape. These sites reflect various periods of construction and renovation, contributing to the cultural heritage of the Kempen region.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Very beautiful castle almost in the center of Oostmalle and yet surrounded by tranquility
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There are also often events held here.
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The original castle was built in the 15th century by Willem van Berchem. In 1542, this castle was destroyed by Maarten van Rossum. Jan van Renesse built the current castle and the outbuildings a few years later. The architect was Hendrik Lambrechts. Many important people visited, such as Emperor Charles V, William the Silent and Margaret of Parma. In the following centuries, the castle was plundered several times and used as a residence for warring troops. Finally, it fell into disrepair. In 1793, the upper court and the farm were demolished. In 1830, the de Renesse family disappeared from the castle: Count Clément de Renesse-Breidbach sold the whole to Viscount Leonard du Bus de Gisignies. He had the service buildings converted into a country house. He also expanded the entire domain and had an English garden laid out in the park. Among other things, the giant sequoias were planted at that time. His son Bernard Amé du Bus de Gisignies and grandson Bernard du Bus de Gisignies continued to manage the domain. Bernard du Bus de Gisignies became mayor of Oostmalle. His daughter Isabelle married Count Maximilien de Renesse-Breidbach in 1896. The castle thus came back into the hands of the de Renesse family. In 1920, the castle was renovated in Flemish neo-Renaissance style. In 1941, part of the western wing was bombed to pieces by the British. This part was not restored. Later, Count Thierry de Renesse also became mayor of Oostmalle. After his death in 1973, negotiations began on the purchase of the castle by the municipality. In 1983, the municipality bought the castle and part of the domain. The Flemish Region bought the remaining 33 hectares. In 1985, the management of the castle and the entire domain was transferred to the specially established non-profit association Domein de Renesse. Since 1982, the castle has been protected as a monument.[1] Source: Wikipedia
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The castle has been the pride of Vorselaar for centuries. Around 1270, the first stone was laid by the knights of Rotselaar. The ground plan has been largely preserved to this day. The castle houses a treasure trove of history and stories, and has been inhabited by noble families all this time.
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Very beautiful medieval castle in the middle of a beautiful forest. A real relief to come here and walk undisturbed.
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In 1914, Baron Alfons van der Straten Waillet inherited the castle. By dividing it among his children, it passed to his 4th son, Baron Jacques van der Straten Waillet, in 1973. In 1978, the castle, which has perfectly preserved its appearance from 1561, was protected as a monument. After the death of Baron Jacques van der Straten Waillet in 1984, the castle was inhabited by his widow, born Countess Christiane de Lannoy, and his sister, Lady Marie-Josephe van der Straten Waillet. After the death of the baroness in 2022, the castle was put up for sale. The asking price was 3.8 million euros. The municipality of Malle decided to purchase the castle after a survey among its residents. This purchase was largely financed by the Kempens Landschap Foundation. Source Wikipedia
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In 1695, the last heir of the Cottereau family owed a lot of money to Pierre Farisau, and later to his heir Filips Robijns. In 1702, the castle was claimed by the creditors, but the court returned the castle to Lady Moytray, the widow of the Cottereau. In 1738, her brother inherited the castle and it was sold to the heirs of Filips Robijns. The castle then had the appearance of a fortified castle with a monumental gate, drawbridge, double rampart and forecourt. These heirs sold the castle to Jacques Benoit Pauwens in 1743. The Pauwens family lived in the castle until 1847. In 1829, Baron de Norman renovated the castle. His children sold the castle in 1848 to an Antwerp diamond merchant, Mr Bovie. He renovated the castle and a garden was created by the landscape architect Koelich. From 1874 to 1878 the castle belonged to Louis Geelhand. Baron de Turck de Kersbeeck bought the castle in 1878 and had the building restored and renovated by architect Schadde.
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The Beerse region offers a diverse range of castles, from privately owned, beautifully restored estates like Borrekens Castle, to historical sites with medieval origins such as Westmalle Castle. You can also find 18th-century constructions like Zoerselhof Castle, which has served various purposes over time, and the historically significant Castle de Renesse with its turbulent past and beautiful park.
Yes, Castle de Renesse has a long and eventful history, dating back to the 15th century, having been destroyed and rebuilt, and hosting important figures like Emperor Charles V. Another significant site is Westmalle Castle, which originated as a fortified farm around 1100 and has been classified as a monument. The Castle of the Dukes of Brabant in Turnhout, a former hunting lodge from the 12th century, also offers a deep dive into the region's past.
Many castles in the area are suitable for family visits. Borrekens Castle, Zoerselhof Castle, Westmalle Castle, Castle de Renesse, and the Castle of the Dukes of Brabant are all categorized as family-friendly, offering historical exploration in engaging settings.
The Beerse area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, running, and mountain biking trails. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Duivelskuil Pond – Eksterheide Boardwalk loop' or 'The Visbeek Valley – Warandeplas loop'. Running enthusiasts can try the 'Nieuwe Kaai of Turnhout loop'. Mountain bikers have options like the 'Visbeek Valley – Jump on the Blue Bloso Trail loop'. You can find more details and routes on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Beerse, Running Trails around Beerse, and MTB Trails around Beerse.
Yes, Borrekens Castle is situated in a forest next to a beautiful lane, offering a scenic setting. Castle de Renesse is surrounded by a park with many beautiful old trees, including giant sequoias and red beeches. The Castle of the Dukes of Brabant in Turnhout features a moat with the unique 'De Najade' statue, the goddess of all springs and rivers.
Borrekens Castle is a beautifully restored, privately owned castle nestled in the middle of a forest next to a picturesque lane. Visitors appreciate its well-maintained appearance and serene surroundings. According to local lore, its chapel is even connected via an underground passage.
Westmalle Castle is privately owned, but its domain has been opened to the public. This allows visitors to explore the grounds around the castle, which perfectly preserves its 1561 appearance and is classified as a monument. Check local tourism information for specific access details.
Zoerselhof Castle was built in 1787 by Bonifacius De Wolf, the provost of the Hemiksem monastery. Originally, the area had a hunting lodge for the Duke of Brabant. Over the centuries, the building has served various purposes, including a children's home, a guesthouse, and a hotel-restaurant, reflecting its adaptability and historical significance in the region.
Yes, the Castle of the Dukes of Brabant in Turnhout, while historically a hunting lodge, now functions as a courthouse. This blend of historical architecture with modern usage makes it a unique site. You can still admire its exterior and the statue 'De Najade' in its moat.
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical insights offered by the castles, their integration into the natural landscape, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The komoot community has shared over 190 photos and given more than 250 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and engaging experiences these sites provide, from exploring restored estates to walking through ancient parks.
Many castles in the Beerse region are surrounded by accessible paths and parks, making them suitable for walks. For instance, the domain around Westmalle Castle is open to the public, and Castle de Renesse features an English garden with old trees, perfect for a stroll. These locations often connect to broader walking networks, allowing for longer excursions.
While castles can be visited year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring the castle grounds and nearby trails. Spring brings blooming nature, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but can be warmer. Winter visits can be charming, especially if you enjoy crisp, quiet walks, but some facilities or opening hours might be reduced.


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