Walzin Castle is one of the most picturesque castles in Belgium! It is also the centerpiece of a lot of hiking in the region and is right on a cliff overlooking a river. It is really a fun spot to stop and see or the start of a hike through the region. Here’s what I found when I visited!
Useful Links
Getting there
I parked right at the trailhead on the day I visited. I parked here. I’d be ready for busy parking in the spring and summer. One thing I did notice was lots of people walked up the road or coming out from other trails so parking around the area and walking the trails could be another option. Unfortunately, you won’t know how busy it is until you get to the area!
There are public buses from Dinant to the general area. Bus 67/1 can take you to Furfooz and then you can walk the trails to the castle or the road to the parking area. It’s about 4km from Furfooz to the Walzin Castle area. The other bus line is Bus 25 to Anseremme Point De Vue De Freyr. You can then walk the road to the parking which is about 3km. Both hikes to the parking area look like a great time to wander! Be sure to check the schedule so you know when the bus is running!
Hiking around Walzin
This area has tons of trails that converge in this area. Several people were walking the roads throughout the area so expect slow driving as you get around. The path is an easy one and it’s only a short walk to the area right under the castle by a pasture where you can get the best pictures. There are hiking trails that also continue from the main path along the river. There were several people that were continuing their hike into the forest.
This place would be wonderful in the spring and summer if you can make it. The river is shallow and rocky which could make for some fun kayaking or wading. Several people, even in the winter when I went, were sitting on the bank of the stream splashing a little when I was there in the winter. As always, be respectful of local laws and private property when it comes to your time in the creek and the area.
Some Walzin History
Walzin Castle is a wonderful bit of history in the Dinant region. There has been a structure on this cliff above the Lesse River since at least the 1200s. Other structures were built from the ruins of buildings found on the cliff and continued through the 1800s until finally in the early 1900s the final look and feel of the building was finalized. It’s a wonderful example of Gothic Revival architecture and has a real “Disney” feel when you look at it.
Stay tuned for more trip reports so you’re ready to enjoy a great Belgium weekend of castles! Enjoy your visit and happy trekking!
No. The castle is still privately held by the family of the Duke of Limberg.
Yes, buses 67/1 and 25 from Dinant can drop you off within 4km and 3km respectively
Looks like it would be a nice weekend trip
Nice weekend trip
Looks like a great weekend experience!