Photos courtesy of Château de Harzé
In the 9th or 10th century an unknown nobleman built a watchtower—perhaps to protect himself from the Normans—and laid the foundation for Harzé’s first castle. Very little is known about the early lords of Harzé and their castle. The only documentation mentions a square tower and a fortified house and castle surrounded by a moat.
In the 17th century, one Ernest de Suys de Lynden transformed the structure. His and his wife’s coat of arms are above today’s entry. In 1909, Edgard de Potter d’Indoye hired architect Camille Bourgault to completely restore the castle.
During the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, the US military requisitioned the castle, hosting Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery and General Dwight Eisenhower. A memorial plaque at the entrance honors these events.
In 1973 the descendants of Edgar de Potter d’Indoye sold the castle to the province of Liège.
Pamela’s Perspective
Make sure you pick a room within the castle itself and not the annex. They may be slightly more costly, but the difference is worth it.
There are no restaurants in the neighboring village, so you’ll have to drive if you don’t want to eat in the castle restaurant.
Château de Harzé
A 17th-century castle
Contact
Rue de Bastogne, 1
4920 Harzé
Tel: ++32 (0)4 246 6363
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Fast facts
17 double twin rooms; 1 double room; 5 singles
Single rooms: from 60 euros
Double rooms: 74–110 euros
Open: all year
Getting there
Harzé (Aywaille) is about 30 km south of Liège. From E25, take exit 46 toward Remouchamps/Aywaille. Continue on N662 and then right on N633. Turn left on N30 and continue for about 4 km. The castle will be on your left.
What to do
Nearby: hiking; bicycling; canoeing
Well located on the edge of the Ardennes region, this stately stone château refreshingly offers affordable accommodations. You won’t find over-the-top luxury here, but you can expect a warm and friendly staff. Kids are welcome and even your pets! Traveling with your dog and looking for a castle to stay in? This is the place.
The focus of the hotel is on seminars and receptions, so you won’t find a lobby or general public rooms. Take a wander outside though and check out the charming courtyard and period fountain. Good walking paths pass right by the property.
Guest rooms may be found within the castle or in an outbuilding, designated by A rooms or B rooms, respectively. If you have a choice, opt for a superior castle room with a view of the park. A few of the spacious rooms feature high ceilings, a fireplace, or a balcony. Beds are comfy with good linen. Free Wi-Fi reaches nearly every room. Bathrooms contain a bath or shower and toilet. Everything is impeccably clean.
Leave the car keys in the room and enjoy your evening meal in the cozy castle restaurant. The cuisine is excellent. In the morning fresh bread, meat, cheese, cereals, and eggs will start your day out right.
Something special
Classified monument