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Castle of Modave (gardens)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Castle of Modave is spectacularly situated on a 60-meter high rocky outcrop overlooking the Hoyoux valley, representing a masterpiece of 17th-century classical architecture. The current structure was largely rebuilt after 1650 by the Count of Marchin on the ruins of a medieval fortress, resulting in an elegant facade and opulent interior halls. The castle is particularly renowned for its formal French gardens, which provide a harmonious transition between the architecture and the rugged natural surroundings. A significant historical detail is the 17th-century hydraulic water-pump system designed here by Rennequin Sualem, which famously served as the prototype for the Machine de Marly at Versailles. Inside, the rooms are adorned with magnificent stucco ceilings by Jean-Christian Hansche, valuable tapestries, and period furniture. Having escaped the destruction of the French Revolution, the estate is now owned by the Brussels Water Company (CIBE), which also manages the surrounding nature reserve. Today, the castle provides visitors a glimpse into aristocratic life while hosting diverse cultural exhibitions.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: Château de Roiseux · Château Le Facqueval · Château-ferme de Barse
Nearby: Huy (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	2	5	9	12	16	18	18	14	10	5	2
Rain mm	81	72	67	48	70	72	77	87	60	66	75	87

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The gardens of the Castle of Modave, as part of the historic complex, are typically open to visitors from April to October. The 17th-century garden grounds can be explored without prior booking.

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Typical hours

The gardens are usually open from 10 AM to 5 PM, with last entry at 4 PM. In bad weather, access to certain areas may be restricted - inquire on site.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at any time in the gardens, with baroque parterres and water features offering excellent photo subjects. Drones are typically not permitted to preserve the park's tranquility.

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Time needed

A walk through the gardens takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on time spent at viewpoints. Allow extra time for a break on one of the benches with views of the surroundings.

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Combine with

Combine the garden visit with a tour of the Castle of Modave itself, just a few steps away. The nearby Hoyoux river also invites a walk along its scenic valley.

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Getting there

The gardens of the Castle of Modave are reachable by car via the N63; parking is available at the castle. Public buses from Huy and Modave stop at 'Modave Château' stop, a short walk to the gardens.

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Insider tip

Bring a camera with a telephoto lens to capture details of the baroque sculptures up close. The gardens are especially colourful and photogenic in May when the rhododendrons bloom.

Geography

Coordinates

50.47100, 5.27200

Facts

The castle was rebuilt starting in 1650 by Count Jean-Gaspard de Marchin
The structure sits atop a 60-meter-high limestone cliff
The site hosted the prototype for the Versailles water pump system
The elaborate stucco ceilings were created in 1673 by J.C. Hansche
The estate has been owned by the Brussels Water Company since 1941
The formal gardens cover several hectares in French style

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Castle of Modave<1 km · SWExplore →

Modave Castle4 km · SEExplore →

Citadel of Huy6 km · NWExplore →

Tihange Nuclear Power Plant7 km · NExplore →

Abbey of Flône8 km · NExplore →

Castle of Jehay11 km · NEExplore →

Andenne13 km · WExplore →

Abbey of Grandpré17 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Castle of Modave (gardens) (9)

Château de Roiseux🏰 castle

Powerful building with a massive quadrangular tower, likely from the 16th century.

Château Le Facqueval🏰 castle

Castle in the municipality of Modave, surrounded by forests and meadows.

🌐 facqueval.be

Château-ferme de Barse🏰 castle

Enclosed rectangular farmyard combining living quarters and agricultural buildings.

Oppidum

Celtic and Carolingian fortification situated on a hilltop.

Point de vue sur la Vyle et le Lapiaz

Viewpoint overlooking the Vyle river valley and the karst rock formations.

Point de vue sur la Vyle

Scenic spot along the Vyle river offering a broad view of the watercourse.

Point de vue sur Pont-de-Bonne

Lookout point with a view of the village of Pont-de-Bonne and its surroundings.

Église Notre-Dame

Church in Modave dedicated to Our Lady.

Pierre à la sorcière

A conspicuous stone around which local legends and tales revolve.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the Castle of Modave?

Yes, the castle is open to visitors from April to October.

What is the architectural highlight?

The magnificent 17th-century stucco ceilings are particularly worth seeing.

Are there gardens at Modave Castle?

Yes, there are beautiful French gardens that can be visited.

What technical invention is connected to Modave?

The hydraulic machine of Modave served as a model for the water supply of Versailles.

Are there parking spaces on site?

Yes, there is a free parking lot for visitors directly in front of the castle complex.

Castle of Modave (gardens): where is it located?

Castle of Modave (gardens) is located in Belgium.

Castle of Modave (gardens): what is there to see?

Highlights include Château de Roiseux, Château Le Facqueval, Château-ferme de Barse.

Castle of Modave (gardens): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Castle of Modave (gardens): why is it worth visiting?

The Castle of Modave is spectacularly situated on a 60-meter high rocky outcrop overlooking the Hoyoux valley, representing a masterpiece of 17th-century classical architecture.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →