CASTLES DAMME

Kasteel Ryckevelde stands in a magnificent 180-hectare domain spanning territories near Bruges, built between 1913 and 1929 by Baron Raphael Gilles de Pélichy in the imposing Flemish Gothic Revival style. Originally a family residence until 1946, it later served as headquarters for the Ryckevelde Europe House, a Capuchin foundation promoting European integration and youth education until 2002. Today the castle operates as an upscale hotel and exclusive event venue, offering comfortable vacation apartments and stylish facilities for private celebrations, corporate events, and weddings. The freely accessible surrounding domain features extensive parks and gardens, establishing it as a premier destination for both leisure and formal occasions.

Kasteel van Oostkerke stands in Damme's countryside, a castle with foundations reaching to the 10th or 11th centuries, evolving through the 13th-century brick keep to the 14th-century walled fortress with its distinctive upper and lower courtyards. The castle underwent significant transformation around 1500 into a more comfortable residence, and in 1938 Baron van der Elst initiated comprehensive restoration work, reconstructing the western wing in elegant Renaissance style while carefully re-excavating the perimeter walls. Today the privately-owned estate is celebrated for its magnificent castle gardens inspired by English Gertrude Jekyll style design, featuring an enclosed courtyard garden, formal rose garden, and Mary garden. Though not open to the general public, the castle remains easily visible from a nearby public footpath.