Nieuwenhoven Castle & Forest
Kasteel Nieuwenhoven

**Relax in nature, enjoy some history and...share breakfast with an alpaca at this secluded castle just outside of Sint-Truiden. **

Nestled in the Kelsbeek valley, surrounded by the forests and farmland is Kasteel Nieuwenhoven. The tranquil location makes it a great place to relax in the green surroundings, sample some regional products, learn a little of Sint-Truiden’s history or even share a meal with an alpaca!

• Enjoy a bite to eat or something to drink at the castle’s bistro-café - it's a peaceful place to stop and refuel on a long walk or cycle around Haspengouw.
• History Dose: the estate’s history dates all the way back to the 800s, having been home to 2 farms and 4 castles over the years, the one you see today was built in the 19th century. Every Sunday at 11 am March through November there is a free historical tour of the castle covering 1000 years of history.
• Have breakfast with an alpaca! Feed them as you feed yourself and take part in a truly unique morning experience. Alpaca Breakfasts take place on summer weekends at 8:30, advance reservations are required. It costs 17€ for adults and 8.50€ for kids under 10 and under 4’s go free.
• Fancy an overnight stay? The castle has several holiday apartments that you can book in the castle wing and the coach house. It's a good choice for groups and families with apartments for 5, 7 and 12 people. Check them out and book online here.

Nieuwenhoven Forest

In the 10th century, the forest, traditionally called Galgenbos, was a popular retreat for the abbots from the Abbey of Sint-Truiden. For centuries the forest belonged to the castle, but now is part of Limburg’s park system.

Nature lovers, be on the lookout for deer, foxes, woodpeckers, buzzards, owls, salamanders and more. In the Fall, the forest becomes a mushroom mecca as its floor is covered by over 100 species of mushrooms, how many can you spot?

Explore Haspengouw’s biggest public forest by foot with one of these walking loops:

• Blue Diamond (2.9km) - a nice easy forest walk past the large playground, a great one for the kids.
• Orange Octagon (4.3km) - this loop takes you through the forest to the castle.
• Red Triangle (7.4km) - you’ll be hitting those 10,000 steps as you wander through the forest and beyond past the castle, farms and rolling fields.

Starting Point: Nieuwenhoven 1, 3800, Sint-Truiden