CASTLES STEENOKKERZEEL

The Castle of Ribaucourt in Steenokkerzeel, Flemish Brabant, is a fortified residence with a U-shaped layout built from sandstone and brick. Purchased and eclectically rebuilt in 1835 by Count de Ribaucourt, the castle remains a private home where his descendants continue to reside. While interior access is not available to the public, the castle's exterior can be viewed from Kasteelhoekstraat. The surrounding park functions as a nature reserve sheltering numerous bird species and occasionally hosts events like the Paradise City Festival.

Thermae Boetfort is a contemporary wellness retreat set within a 400-year-old castle domain in Steenokkerzeel, blending historical heritage with modern spa facilities. The castle accommodations include superior and deluxe rooms within the original structure, complemented by rustic cabins throughout the grounds. Guests enjoy access to extensive thermal baths, saunas—including themed varieties—a hammam in a vaulted room, and outdoor pools, all set within manicured gardens and beautiful natural surroundings. Located just 5 miles from Brussels Airport, the estate offers fine dining in a grand hall with fireplace and combines elegant architecture with contemporary wellness services.

Kasteel de Kerckhove d'Exaerde is a neo-Flemish Renaissance castle built between 1870-1880 by Jules de Kerchove d'Exaerde, who served as vice-president of the Court of Audit and mayor of Steenokkerzeel. The castle features distinctive red brick and sandstone construction with decorative diamond-patterned ornaments, a tower-like central section with decorative spires, and two stories with a high roof. After the owner's death in 1901, the estate served various purposes—as a French convent, restaurant, school colony, and community center—before the municipality acquired it in 1953. Recently restored in 2012, the castle now houses nine social apartments while retaining heritage trees including ancient beeches and horse chestnuts from the original landscape.