4.4
(5384)
30,348
hikers
1,012
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Domein Catershof En Kasteel Van ‘S Gravenwezel traverse a varied landscape of green spaces, historical landmarks, and waterways. The region features lush forests, including the 10-hectare De Caters forest, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Hikers will encounter historical castles like the 13th-century Kasteel van 's-Gravenwezel and the 15th-century Kasteel Catershof, surrounded by parkland. The Antitankgracht, an artificial watercourse, also offers scenic routes through this area of gentle elevation changes.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
4.4
(44)
173
hikers
10.8km
02:43
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(26)
77
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.5
(22)
63
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
42
hikers
10.1km
02:33
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
39
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A former, authentic blacksmith's forge where horses were once shod. It is classified as architectural heritage and dates from the last quarter of the 19th century. The local site is in excellent company as it is also part of a protected village landscape, along with the nearby Groot Kasteel.
0
0
A great place to take a break. Enjoy the Catershof countryside beyond.
4
0
A plaque with a memorial by a fallen soldier explains Eugeen Dierckx, born in Schilde on February 23, 1893, and died in Lo-Reningelst on October 16, 1915, at the age of 22 and a half. He was a soldier in the Great War, first building footbridges in the Yser Plain, then helping to guard the Steenstrate area. This appears to have been a quiet period, but he still died. Eugeen Dierckx was hit by a bullet in the heart and "died for the fatherland." This memorial to this young man at the anti-tank ditch serves to illustrate the folly of all wars.
7
0
A pleasant shady spot for a picnic is also a historic site that was part of the Antwerp Defence Line during WWII. The Anti-Tank Ditch was dug between 1937 and 1939 to defend Antwerp. Lock bunkers were located at various locations along the route. These bunkers were built to maintain the water level. Today, you can relax at a picnic table in the shade of the trees. Just a hundred meters away, there is a memorial tree for both world wars.
5
0
The castle of 's-Gravenwezel has a double rampart and dates from the 13th century. It was the residence of the Counts de Woutere. This is why the original name of the municipality, Wesel or Wesele, was given the addition (de)'s Graven. In the 14th century, two imposing round corner towers were added, one of which has been preserved. Both the east and north facades are built in Gothic style. The gatehouse was added in the Baroque period. Shortly afterwards, the castle was thoroughly rebuilt from a "moated castle" to a modern residential castle for that time, under the direction of architect Jan Pieter van Baurscheidt de Jonge. The castle is located in the middle of a 21 ha park. Antique dealer Axel Vervoordt is the current owner. The castle is not open to the public. Source Wikipedia
4
0
The Duyvendaelhoeve was probably built in 1720. The farm consists of detached parts including the residential stable house and stables and a long barn. The farm is now being renovated. Looking forward to the result so that the next generation can enjoy a piece of precious heritage.
6
0
With a bit of luck you can spot the deer population here or spot the praying hawk. Information about the 'exceptional closed' nature reserve: The Gravinnenbos is a nature reserve between the Groot and Klein Schijn. It is part of the Green Belt around Antwerp. This nature reserve is also the habitat for deer and pine martens. The excellent water quality of the Hofbeek and the Antitankgracht ensure that the woodland damselfly and lake comb are frequently observed. The many gael thickets, heather heaths and cotton straw are also the habitat for the viviparous lizard and the variegated fathead. In the forests you can spot buzzards, hawks and tawny owls. The tree pipit, garden warbler and pied flycatcher return every year to breed. Source: Information board Natuurpunt Het Gravinnenbos 's-Gravenwezel
6
0
With a bit of luck you can spot the deer population here or spot the praying hawk
12
0
There are over 500 easy hiking routes in Domein Catershof En Kasteel Van ‘S Gravenwezel, many of which are suitable for families. The region offers a wide array of paths for various fitness levels, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.
You can expect mostly well-maintained paths winding through lush green spaces, tranquil forests, and along scenic waterways like the Antitankgracht. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it comfortable for families with children. You might encounter varied ecosystems, including gael thickets and heather heaths.
Yes, the region is rich in history and natural beauty. You can discover impressive sites such as the 13th-century Castle of 's-Gravenwezel and the historic Kasteel Catershof. The Antitankgracht, a significant natural and historical feature, offers scenic routes. You might also come across remnants from World War I and II, including bunkers like the Lock bunker WWII Antitank Ditch and the Veteran Tree WWI.
Yes, many trails in Domein Catershof En Kasteel Van ‘S Gravenwezel are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, especially in areas with diverse flora and fauna.
Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Castle of 's-Gravenwezel – Duyvendaelhoeve loop from Antwerp is an easy circular option, and the Catershof - Pleasure Court – Castle of 's-Gravenwezel loop from Antwerp also provides a pleasant circular walk.
The region is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, while summer provides lush greenery. Even in winter, the forests and historical sites offer a unique charm. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Many of the trails are well-maintained and relatively flat, making them suitable for strollers. Routes that stick to wider, gravel paths or paved sections are generally the most stroller-friendly. Look for routes marked as 'easy' with minimal elevation gain for the best experience.
Parking facilities are available at various entry points to the domain. Specific parking areas are often indicated near popular trailheads or attractions like the castles. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for designated parking spots.
The diverse ecosystems of the domain are home to various wildlife. You might spot bats, deer, pine martens, buzzards, hawks, and tawny owls in the forests. Birdwatchers can look for tree pipits, garden warblers, and pied flycatchers during breeding season. The waterways also support species like the woodland damselfly.
Yes, there are several easy and shorter routes ideal for young children. The Castle of 's-Gravenwezel – Duyvendaelhoeve loop from Antwerp is an easy 5.4 km route, and the Catershof - Pleasure Court – Castle of 's-Gravenwezel loop from Antwerp is another easy option at 5.6 km, both offering manageable distances for little legs.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful historical backdrops provided by the castles and the Antitankgracht, making it a favorite for family outings.
Public transport options are available to reach the vicinity of Domein Catershof En Kasteel Van ‘S Gravenwezel. Local bus services connect nearby towns and cities to stops within walking distance of the domain's entrances. It's recommended to check current schedules and routes for the most convenient travel.
For families looking for a longer adventure, routes like the Wouwerse Beemden – Veteran Tree WWI loop from Antwerp, at just under 11 km, or the Veteran Tree WWI – Castle of 's-Gravenwezel loop from Antwerp, at 10 km, offer more extensive exploration while still being classified as moderate difficulty.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.