Horst Castle
Kasteel van Horst

A medieval castle hidden among the hills of Hageland.

Horst Castle is temporarily closed for restoration work. But you can still explore the Castle grounds on a walk or cycling trip. Don’t miss this 15th century knight’s fortress and surrounding forest in the hills of Hageland and the village of Sint-Pieters-Rode.

Walking around the castle grounds and lake is totally free. There’s a nice view of the castle and forest to see. Other than that, there isn’t too much to do apart from fishing in the lake or enjoying a picnic. There’s also the occasional activity for kids like the treasure hunt.

Kid friendly: Horst Castle is more than a pretty place to visit. There’s activities to keep the kids entertained too. Tour the beautiful castle grounds on a treasure hunt during July and August. Best for kids aged 6 -11. Available for 3€ from the visitor centre, Dutch only. Solve puzzles, discover the castle’s history, and explore nature.

While the castle is closed because of building work, you can get a quick visit during Open Monument Day. Until the restoration work is done, this is a unique opportunity to see the iconic stucco ceilings and medieval interior of Horst Castle.

• Stucco ceilings: the castle interior is worth checking out when you can (when the building work is done!) as it has three lovely stucco ceilings. Made in the 17th century when the last owner, Maria-Anna van den Tympe, lived here.
• Haunted: some say Horst Castle is haunted! Local legend goes that the ghost of Lord of Rode visits in a spooky carriage drawn by six wild horses at midnight. It says that the Lord of Rode can never find rest after he killed a priest and now haunts the grounds of his castle for eternity! Spooky.