If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, Walzin Castle (or Château de Walzin) should be on your list. Perched on a cliff above the Lesse River, it’s one of those places that draws you in with its mix of history, architecture, and incredible views.
History of Walzin Castle
Walzin Castle has been around since the 13th century. Over the years, it’s been rebuilt and changed by different owners. Each left their mark on its design.
Today, the castle is privately owned. You can’t go inside, but the outside is impressive enough to make the trip worthwhile. I
ts location on the cliff makes it look like it’s part of the rock. From the trails below, it’s easy to imagine why it was built here, for protection and as a sign of power.
Can You Visit the Castle?
No, the castle is not open to the public. But don’t worry, the views from the outside are fantastic. You can enjoy them from nearby hiking trails or while kayaking along the river.
Where to Find Castle Walzin?
Location: Château de Walzin is located near the town of Dinant in Wallonia, Belgium. Use “Walzin, 5500 Dinant” for GPS directions.
Opening Hours: The castle itself is privately owned and not open to the public. Visitors can only admire the exterior and surrounding views.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and autumn offer the most scenic landscapes with mild weather. But make sure to arrive early otherwise, you risk getting there when it's already dark! (like me, see the picture below)
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photography.
Parking:
You can park at Rue du Barrage or Pont-à-Lesse if you want to get close without hiking too much. These spots are not official, and the walk is about 15 minutes to the castle.
Amenities:
Bring water and snacks; facilities are limited in the immediate area.
Nearby Dinant offers restaurants, cafes, and additional attractions if you want to extend your visit.
How do you see Castle Walzin without hiking?
If you prefer to minimize hiking and get a close view of Walzin Castle, you can park your car near the end of Rue du Barrage or at Pont-a-Lesse.
It's not an official parking space and sometimes difficult to reach, but from here you can leave your car and walk in 15 minutes to the castle.
Want to see even more historic places near Belgium? Discover a daytrip from Brussels to Luxembrug and Dinant!
The Best Hiking Trails Around Walzin Castle
For hikers, the trails near Walzin Castle offer a perfect blend of nature and history. Here are my favorite hiking routes:
Two Castles Route
This 15 km trail connects Walzin Castle and Vêves Castle, starting from the Gendron-Celles train station. The hike takes you through the picturesque Lesse Valley, offering views of both castles and the natural beauty of the area.
Location: The trail begins at the parking area near Château de Vêves in Celles, Belgium.
Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) round trip.
Duration: Around 4 hours and 10 minutes, depending on pace and rest stops.
Difficulty: Intermediate. The trail features some elevation changes and varied terrain, making it suitable for hikers with a moderate fitness level.
Highlights:
Scenic views of Walzin Castle perched above the Lesse River.
Exploration of Vêves Castle, known for its fairy-tale appearance.
Traversing the charming village of Furfooz and the Chaleux rocks.
Hiking from Furfooz to Walzin Castle
If you’re looking for a hike that combines history, nature, and breathtaking views, the trail from Furfooz Nature Reserve to Walzin Castle is one I’d highly recommend. You can visit the Furfooz park which is a must-see in Dinant as well as the castle.
Plus, the payoff, seeing Walzin Castle perched above the Lesse River, is worth it!
Hike Overview
Distance: Approximately 15km round trip
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate – suitable for regular walkers but includes some uneven terrain and minor elevation changes.
Starting Point: Furfooz Nature Reserve parking area
Highlights: Stunning views of Walzin Castle, Lesse River, and charming forest paths.
Kayak the Lesse River with Views of Walzin Castle
If you’re up for a water-based adventure, kayaking on the Lesse River is a fantastic way to experience the Château de Walzin. From the river, you get a unique perspective of the castle as it towers above.
If you're looking to kayak on the Lesse River and enjoy stunning views of Walzin Castle, Dinant Evasion is the go-to company.
They offer well-organized kayak tours that take you through the scenic Lesse Valley, passing by the iconic castle perched on its cliff. For more information or to book your trip, visit their website: Dinant Evasion.
For more information on kayaking in Belgium, check out our guide to the best kayak routes in Belgium.
Things to Do Near Castle Walzin
There’s so much to see around Walzin Castle. Here are my favorite spots to check out:
Château de Vêves
This castle is like something out of a fairy tale. It’s not far from Walzin, and you can actually go inside.
The rooms are decorated with old furniture and paintings, so it feels like stepping back in time. The little garden around it is also nice for a short walk. If you’re into castles, this one is a must-see.
Want to stay multiple days in Dinant? Check out the best Treehouses in the Ardennes for a unique stay!
Furfooz Nature Reserve
I loved Furfooz Park. It’s a mix of nature and history, with caves, old Roman ruins, and beautiful views.
You can follow the trails to see everything, and there are signs explaining the history. It’s not too big, so it’s perfect if you want something to do for a couple of hours.
There’s also a picnic area, so pack some snacks and enjoy the peace.
Dinant
Dinant is such a charming little town. The view of the river with the colorful houses and the big church is just beautiful. Here’s what I recommend:
Dinant Citadel: You can take the cable car up or climb the stairs (if you’re feeling brave). The views from the top are amazing, and you can explore the fortress too.
Notre Dame Church: This church is huge and has such a unique dome. It’s right in the middle of town, so you can’t miss it.
Saxophones Everywhere: Dinant is where Adolphe Sax, the guy who invented the saxophone, was born. You’ll see saxophones all over the town, and there’s a tiny museum about his life.
Food by the River: There are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can sit by the river and relax. I grabbed a waffle, and it was perfect.
Read more about the best things to do in Dinant!
The Caves of Dinant
I didn’t expect to like the caves as much as I did. The Grotte La Merveilleuse is just a few minutes from town, and the guided tour is easy to follow.
Inside, there are huge stalactites and underground waterfalls. It’s cool and quiet, a nice break from walking around outside.
Walzin Castle might not be open to visitors, but it’s still a must-see. Between the hikes, the kayaking, and the incredible views, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Plan your visit to Walzin Castle, and don’t forget to make time for the nearby attractions, hikes, and outdoor activities that make the region so special.
Share your own experiences or let me know what you’re looking forward to most about your trip in the comments below, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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