Castle Loppem, East Flanders Travel Guide

4.5 (1237)

Discover a neo-Gothic masterpiece near Bruges: Explore original interiors, art collections, a romantic park, and a historic maze at Castle Loppem.

Castle Loppem, near Bruges, is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture, built in the 19th century for Baron Charles van Caloen. Preserved in its original state, the castle boasts a rich art collection, a romantic park with ponds, and a captivating maze, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former residents.

A brief summary to Castle Loppem

Steenbrugsestraat 26, Zedelgem, Loppem, 8210, BE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Castle Loppem.

Visit between April and October to experience the enchanting maze in the castle grounds.
Check the official website for current opening hours, as they vary throughout the year.
Take your time to explore the castle's interior details, including the unique door handles and floor tiles.
Enjoy a picnic in the park, taking in the serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery.

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Explore Castle Loppem on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Castle Loppem, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Bruges, take bus line 70A, 70B, or 703 from Stationsplein towards Zedelgem. Get off at the Loppem Sportcentrum stop on Steenbrugsestraat, a short walk from the castle. The bus fare is approximately €3. Buses depart every 20-30 minutes.
Walking

From the Loppem Sportcentrum bus stop, walk along Steenbrugsestraat in the direction indicated by signs for Castle Loppem. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. The route is straightforward and well-signposted.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Bruges, a taxi or ride-share (like Uber) to Castle Loppem will cost approximately €30-€40 and take around 15 minutes. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.
Driving

From Bruges, drive towards Zedelgem via the N397. Follow signs to Loppem. The castle is located on Steenbrugsestraat 26. Free parking is available for visitors on-site. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a parking spot.

Discover more about Castle Loppem

Nestled in the municipality of Zedelgem, close to Bruges, Castle Loppem (Kasteel van Loppem) stands as a remarkable testament to neo-Gothic architecture. Constructed between 1858 and 1863 for Baron Charles van Caloen and his wife, Countess Savina de Gourcy Serainchamps, the castle served as a summer residence for the family. The building's design was initially entrusted to English architect Edward Welby Pugin, later followed by Jan Bethune, who ensured a harmonious blend of architecture and interiors.What makes Castle Loppem truly special is the preservation of its original architecture and interior decoration. Visitors can admire the artistic carvings on the stairs, the unique door handles and floor tiles, and wall paintings. The castle also houses an impressive art collection, spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, including paintings, sculptures, and art from Asia and Africa. A highlight is the stained glass fragment, *Pietà*, dating back to 1460-1470, possibly created by a Brussels painter.The surrounding romantic park, designed in the English landscape style by Jean Gindra, features ancient trees, ponds, and grottos. A notable attraction is the maze, created in 1873 by the young Albert and Ernest van Caloen, offering a fun and immersive experience for visitors. The park is open from sunrise to sunset with free entrance. The castle played a significant role in Belgian history, serving as the headquarters of the Belgian Army in 1918, where King Albert I and Queen Elizabeth resided. Today, the Jean van Caloen Foundation maintains the property and welcomes visitors to explore the castle and its surroundings.