Are you looking for a fun, exciting Castle of Ooidonk Loop Hike in East Flanders, Belgium?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through EVERYTHING you need to know for this hike, from parking details to tips for navigating the trail.
Let’s get started!
Overview of the Ooidonk Castle Loop:
- Trailhead: Ooidonk Castle
- Miles: 4 miles (7.7 km) loop
- Time: 2 – 3 hours (depending on your pace and stops)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Hike Permit: No
- Park Permit: No
- Signs: Well-marked with informational boards
Download The Hiking Route FOR FREE
We recommend downloading the GPX file for the hike. Using an app like GPX VIEWER, you can follow the hike on your phone. You can download the free GPX file here.
Ooidonk Castle Loop Hike
For us, the Ooidonk Castle Loop hike in Belgium is a perfect mix of historical architecture, lush landscapes, and waterways. Our detailed outline will guide you through each step of the journey, ensuring you don’t miss any of the enchanting sights along the way.
Starting Point: Ooidonk Castle Entrance
- Location: park in the parking area before the gate that leads to Ooidonk Castle, and look for the information board that marks the beginning of the loop. We thought it was really easy to park, just put this address in your GPS and you’ll automatically find some empty spots: Brasserie de Sterre.
- Preparation: Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes, also bring some water and a camera!
Phase 1: The Castle Grounds
- Direction: From the starting point, head towards the castle’s main gate.
- Sights: It was amazing for us to admire the Renaissance architecture of Ooidonk Castle. The initial path circles the castle, offering various angles and views of its impressive structure.
DID YOU KNOW: Castle of Ooidonk means the Castle on the higher land in swamps. Situated on an elevation, it served as a refuge during floods, embodying the literal sense of its name by offering elevated, safe ground amidst the surrounding waterlogged landscapes. This semantic origin not only underscores the castle’s geographical advantage but also enriches our understanding of its historical significance as a protective haven.
Phase 2: The Gardens
- Direction: After circling the castle, take the left path leading into the gardens.
- Sights: Explore the beautifully maintained gardens, with their array of flowers, sculpted hedges, and serene ponds. Benches are available for resting and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
BEWARE: We did not know that the entrance fee to visit the gardens is 3 euros per person.
Phase 3: Into the Woods
- Direction: We exited the gardens at the northern end, and followed the path that goes right, leading into the woods.
- Sights: The trail becomes shaded, meandering through tall trees. Listen for the sound of birds and the rustling of leaves underfoot.
Phase 4: Riverside Walk
- Direction: As the path runs along, keep left, towards the river.
- Sights: We thought that this part of the hike was the most beautiful. It offers beautiful views of the water, with several spots perfect for taking photos or simply enjoying the flowing river.
Phase 5: The Meadow Crossing
- Direction: Then we left the riverside, and the trail headed into an open meadow. You should follow the path straight across the field.
- Sights: Seasonal wildflowers and the chance to spot wildlife make this part of the hike particularly delightful. The castle is visible in the distance, providing a picturesque backdrop.
Phase 6: Back into the Forest
- Direction: At the end of the meadow, enter the forest again by taking the path that slopes gently uphill to the right.
- Sights: This denser part of the woods offers a cooler, shaded environment. The path here is lined with ferns and moss, adding to the fairy-tale feel of the hike. Trust us on this one!
Phase 7: The Final Stretch
- Direction: Afterwards, the trail guided us back towards the city and then the castle.
- Sights: You’ll pass by a small orchard and a historic farmhouse, adding a touch of rural charm to the final leg of your journey.
- Return: The path ends right where you started, at the entrance of the gate to Ooidonk Castle. Voila! There you have our complete guide to the hike!
After the Hike
After the hike, we went for an amazing lunch at the Brasserie de Sterre where our car was parked. A lovely lunch and the perfect end to our hike!
About Ooidonk Castle
Ooidonk Castle in the River Leie neighborhood resembles a piece of the Loire. This gem of Flemish-Spanish architecture on a higher elevation in a broad bend of the Leie was rebuilt at the end of the 16th century and acquired a more residential character.
Whenever the Leie River flooded, residents from the region sought refuge on the elevation to escape the rising water.
The gentleman farmer who owned the elevation accepted payment in kind for this service. In exchange for protection, the farmers in the village had to give up a portion of their harvest and work for the gentleman farmer for free. His farm gradually evolved into a castle farm. At the end of the 14th century, the lord of Nevele chose the farm to be his residence and had it converted into a water castle.
The castle played a significant strategic role due to its location on an elevation in the large bend of the river Leie, near the road from Ghent to Deinze to Ypres.
During the Middle Ages, the castle was part of the defensive belt protecting the Ghent Castle of the Counts. After the original fortress was destroyed by Louis de Male, count of Flanders, Jean de Fosseux rebuilt and enlarged it from 1381 onwards, adding moats, so that the castle could only be reached by a drawbridge, and strengthening the defenses with four towers.
In 1492, the people of the village of Ghent severely damaged the site. Perhaps the most famous resident of the castle was Philip II of Montmorency, better known as the Count of Horn, who was beheaded with his friend Count Lamoral of Egmont on the Grand Place in Brussels.
DID YOU KNOW: The interior of Ooidonk was completely remodeled by French architect Parent in 1870?
A new era began for Ooidonk in 1592 with the new owner, Maarten della Faille: who largely replaced the medieval castle with a building in Flemish-Spanish Renaissance style. Ooidonk was no longer a defensive structure but a residential place. The castle remained in the possession of his descendants, the Lords and Barons of Nevelle, for another 200 years.
In 1864, Kasteel Ooidonk and the lands surrounding it were acquired by Henri t’Kint de Rodenbeke, who would become President of the Senate and Minister of State. Today, the property still belongs to his descendant, the current Count. She provided the necessary modern comfort in the ancient building, and her descendants are still the owners of the well-maintained castle today.
FUN FACT: The Ooidonk castle is also called Kasteel Oidonk, close to Bachte-Maria-Leerne in East Flanders.
Other Points of Interest
- The Gardens: Explore the castle’s gardens, which are a testament to the art of Renaissance landscaping.
- River Views: The loop offers several spots where you can enjoy peaceful views of the city and the river, adding a tranquil backdrop to your walk.
When to Visit
The Ooidonk Castle Loop property is accessible throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm. Spring and summer bring the gardens to life with vibrant blooms, while autumn transforms the landscape into a palette of warm colors. Even in winter, the bare trees and frost-covered grounds create a magical atmosphere.
BEWARE:
Weather Conditions: Be prepared for Belgium’s unpredictable weather by dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear.
Garden Access: Note that access to certain parts of the gardens may be restricted during private events at the residence or the castle.
Travel Accessories
To have the most comfortable and safe experience at Ooidonk Castle, we recommend these travel accessories:
- Universal Adapter
- Osprey Backpack
- Power Bank
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Traveler’s EHBO Kit
- Ebook reader
- Travel Bottles
- Multi-tool
- Packing Cubes
- Neck Pillow
- RFID Wallet
- Travel Umbrella
- Raincoat
- Walking shoes
- Eye Mask
- Waterproof Phone Case
- Microfiber Towel
Conclusion
With its free parking, downloadable GPX file, and detailed trail guidance, the Ooidonk Castle Loop hike is an accessible escape for hikers of all levels.
FAQ
Who owns Ooidonk Castle?
Ooidonk Castle remains a prestigious estate held by the descendants of Henri t’Kint de Rodenbeke. Today, it is owned and meticulously cared for by the current Count of Ooidonk, ensuring the castle’s heritage and architectural integrity are preserved for future generations. The family’s commitment to the upkeep and opening of the castle to the public for tours and events helps maintain its status as a vibrant part of Belgium’s cultural and historical landscape.
Can you visit Ooidonk Castle?
Yes, Ooidonk Castle is accessible to the public for tours. You can explore the grand halls, stately rooms, and admire the exquisite Flemish-Spanish Renaissance architecture that has been meticulously preserved. The castle also hosts various events throughout the year, including art exhibitions and concerts, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of the region. Tour schedules and ticket information are available on the official website, making it easy for guests to plan their visit and experience the splendor of Ooidonk Castle firsthand.
When was Ooidonk Castle built?
Ooidonk Castle was built in the 13th and 14th years of its life and reconstructed in 1495 after much savagery and repeated pillaging. Its moat was one of Belgium’s best-preserved castles.
