Attractions and Places To See around Kontich - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kontich, a municipality in the Antwerp province of Belgium, include a variety of natural features, historical landmarks, and recreational points of interest. The region offers green spaces like Park Zandbergen and natural areas such as the Oude Spoorwegberm. Historical sites, including the Saint Martin Church and several castles, provide cultural significance. Visitors can explore cycling routes and dedicated outdoor fitness facilities.
Best attractions and places to see around Kontich
- The most popular attractions is Netekanaal Cycle Path, a cycle way that offers a smooth surface for cycling next to the canal. This path is known for its perfect asphalt and is free of car traffic, making it suitable for faster rides.
- Another must-see spot is Grote Markt Antwerp, a historical site and viewpoint. This main square is surrounded by 16th-century buildings, including the Town Hall, and features the Brabo statue.
- Visitors also love Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle, a bridge and cycle way. This well-designed bridge is a significant link for both commuting and recreation in the region.
- Kontich is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cycle routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from urban squares to scenic waterways.
- The attractions around Kontich are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1400 upvotes and over 1100 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Grote Markt Antwerp
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Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle
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Bridges connect people and landscapes. Know that it is quite busy here on weekends.
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Brabo Fountain
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Netekanaal Cycle Path
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Het Steen
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The Brabo Fountain is one of Antwerp's most iconic monuments and is located on the Grote Markt, in front of the City Hall. The fountain tells the legend of the giant Druon Antigoon and the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo. According to tradition, Druon Antigoon demanded a high toll from ships that wanted to pass the Scheldt. If skippers refused to pay, he chopped off their hand and threw it into the river. Silvius Brabo, a brave soldier, defeated the giant, chopped off Antigoon's hand in turn and threw it into the Scheldt. This legend is said to be the origin of the name "Antwerp" (derived from "hand werpen"). The fountain, designed by Jef Lambeaux and unveiled in 1887, shows Brabo triumphantly throwing away the giant's hand. The sculpture is full of dynamism and symbolism, surrounded by water spouts and smaller figures that refer to the Scheldt and the sea. The Brabo Fountain is not only a tribute to a folk tale, but also a beautiful work of art and a beloved symbol of the city of Antwerp.
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Located directly on the Schlede and centrally in Antwerp, I didn't expect to see this magnificent castle there. The castle looks like one of the medieval castles from the earlier knight films. I found it very fascinating. The castle is also Antwerp's oldest building. Of course, it can also be visited.
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The ceremonial unveiling of the sculpture took place on August 21, 1887. It depicts the young hero Silvius Brabo throwing the severed hand of the giant Druon Antigon, whom he had previously defeated in battle, into the Scheldt. According to tradition, this is where the name of the city comes from, "throwing hand".
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Wonderful market square with beautiful house facades. Great restaurants and cafes on the square.
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Modern iron bridge over the canal.
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The Brabo fountain is very impressive. And the story behind it...😉
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The legend of Brabo and the history of the origins of Antwerp was created in the 15th century. The story is the merging of various older legends such as the story of the Swan Knight, Tristan and Isolde, ... The literary history of the origins has already been extensively researched. An important moment is the oldest known written record of the story in its current form by Willem van Berchem and the publication Van den Dorpe in which the story not only appears in print for the first time, but is also provided with an illustration and thus the iconographic tradition of the Brabo legend begins. At that time, Brabo is still depicted as a medieval knight. From the 16th century onwards, the iconography evolves, with Brabo being depicted as a Roman soldier. This will be changed for the first time by Jef Lambeaux by depicting the figures (both Brabo and the giant 'Antigoon') naked. The story also remains popular in literature. The legend of the origins is a powerful symbol for the freedom of Antwerp, mainly in terms of shipping and trade. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Beautiful bridge constructions over the Dijle and the Nete. The bridges are a very important link in the region for commuting and recreation. Bridges connect people and landscapes. Know that it is quite busy here on weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in and around Kontich?
Kontich and its surroundings offer several historical sites. You can visit the Saint Martin Church, a Neo-Gothic Romanesque church with parts dating back to the 13th century. The area also features historical castles like Kasteel Groeningenhof and Kasteel Arendsnest. Further afield, but easily accessible, is Grote Markt Antwerp, a historical square surrounded by 16th-century buildings, and Het Steen, Antwerp's oldest preserved building.
Are there natural areas or parks for relaxation and walks in Kontich?
Yes, Kontich boasts several green spaces. Park Zandbergen is a large park covering 59.1 acres with a picturesque lake, perfect for walking and relaxation. The Oude Spoorwegberm (Old Railway Embankment) is a nature area managed by Natuurpunt, ideal for walking and cycling. Additionally, the Edegemse Beekvallei features a 7-hectare climate forest along the border stream between Edegem and Kontich.
What cycling opportunities are available near Kontich?
Kontich is well-suited for cyclists. The Netekanaal Cycle Path offers a smooth, car-free asphalt surface for faster rides. The Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle is a significant link for both commuting and recreational cycling. For more extensive routes, you can explore various cycling tours such as the 'Bridge view – Cycle expressway F1 to Kontich loop' or 'A bird paradise – Den Bocht Castle loop'. Find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Kontich guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in the Kontich area?
Many attractions in the Kontich area are family-friendly. The Grote Markt Antwerp and Brabo Fountain are historical sites that can be enjoyed by all ages. Het Steen, an ancient castle, also offers an engaging experience for families. For active families, Kontich provides a Calisthenics park and a Skatepark with diverse elements.
What kind of outdoor sports facilities are available in Kontich?
Kontich caters to active visitors with dedicated outdoor sports facilities. There is a Calisthenics park equipped with various outdoor fitness equipment like pull-up bars, parallel bars, and monkey bars. For skateboarding enthusiasts, the Kontich Skatepark offers a concrete park with flatbars, ledges, pyramids, and a spine.
Are there mountain biking or gravel biking trails near Kontich?
Yes, the region around Kontich offers trails for both mountain biking and gravel biking. You can find MTB trails like the 'Forest Singletrack – Technical Forest Trail loop' or the more challenging '’t Hoogst Trail – Nonnenbos singletrack'. For gravel biking, routes such as 'Zennegat – Great route loop' are available. Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Kontich guide and the Gravel biking around Kontich guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Kontich?
Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained infrastructure and scenic beauty. The Netekanaal Cycle Path is loved for its perfect asphalt and car-free environment, ideal for faster rides. The Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle is appreciated for its design and its role as a vital link for recreation. Historical sites like Grote Markt Antwerp are celebrated for their rich history and stunning architecture.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions in the area?
Several attractions and paths in the Kontich area are noted for their accessibility. The Grote Markt Antwerp, Brabo Fountain, Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle, and the Netekanaal Cycle Path are all categorized as wheelchair-accessible, offering smooth surfaces and suitable infrastructure.
Can I reach the main attractions using public transport?
Yes, many attractions, especially those in urban centers like Antwerp, are well-connected by public transport. The Grote Markt Antwerp is centrally located and easily accessible. For attractions within Kontich, local bus services connect various parts of the municipality. The cycling infrastructure, including the Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle and Netekanaal Cycle Path, also serves as important commuting routes.
What is the Oude Spoorwegberm and what can I do there?
The Oude Spoorwegberm, or Old Railway Embankment, is a significant nature area that stretches across Kontich, Duffel, and Rumst. Managed by Natuurpunt, this former railway line (25A) has been repurposed into a green corridor. It is an excellent spot for both walking and cycling, offering a peaceful environment away from traffic.
Are there any castles to visit in the Kontich region?
Beyond the well-known Het Steen in Antwerp, Kontich itself is home to historical castles recognized as cultural heritage landmarks. These include Kasteel Groeningenhof (with its service buildings) and Kasteel Arendsnest, offering glimpses into the region's rich past.
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