Perched on a rocky outcrop deep in the Warche valley, Reinhardstein Castle looks like it was placed there by a storyteller. Surrounded by ancient forest, with Belgium’s highest waterfall tumbling down the hillside below, it’s one of the most atmospheric spots in the entire Ardennes — and one of the least crowded. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a keen hiker, or simply looking for something off the beaten path in the High Fens, Reinhardstein is well worth the detour.
History of Burcht Reinhardstein
The story of Reinhardstein spans nearly 700 years, and it’s a story of power, neglect, and an extraordinary second life.
In 1354, Duke Wenceslas of Luxembourg granted his vassal Renaud of Waimes permission to build a stronghold on this strategic hilltop. After the Waimes family line died out, the castle passed through a succession of noble houses — the Zivelle, Brandscheid, and Nassau families — before becoming, in 1550, the property of the powerful Metternich dynasty. The Metternichs would hold Reinhardstein for over 250 years, right up until the upheavals of the French Revolution, when the estate was confiscated by the revolutionary administration between 1795 and 1798.
In 1812, Count Franz Georg of Metternich — father of the famous Chancellor Klemens, the architect of the Congress of Vienna — sold the ruined complex to a building materials dealer. What followed was the castle’s darkest chapter: for decades it was used as a stone quarry, its walls systematically dismantled and carted away. By the 20th century, Reinhardstein was little more than a picturesque ruin.
Then, in 1965, a Brussels professor named Jean Overloop stumbled upon the remains almost by chance. By his own account, it was love at first sight. Over the next several years, aided by enthusiasts and local craftsmen, Overloop painstakingly rebuilt the castle stone by stone, using 17th-century drawings as his guide. The renovation was completed around 1971, and Overloop went on to live in the castle until his death in 1994. His wife and daughter later donated it to a non-profit organisation, which continues to manage it today.
Inside, visitors can explore a remarkable collection of medieval furniture, armour, tapestries, and weaponry spread across the Knights’ Hall, the guards’ room, the chapel, and the private apartments. Photography of the interior is not permitted.
Reinhardstein Waterfall
Below the castle, the Warche valley holds a natural surprise: Belgium’s highest waterfall, dropping approximately 60 metres down a mossy, forest-clad cliff face. It’s a narrow cascade rather than a thundering torrent, and the dense tree cover means you can rarely see its full height at once — but that’s part of its charm. The sound of the water, the cool air, and the dappled forest light make it a genuinely beautiful spot, especially in spring when water levels are higher.
To reach the waterfall, follow the hiking trail that leads down into the valley from the castle area. Wear sturdy footwear — the terrain is rocky and can be slippery after rain.
Location
Reinhardstein Castle is located in the High Fens region, in the village of Ovifat and municipality of Robertville, province of Liège.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Reinhardstein Castle is located in the village of Ovifat, in the municipality of Waimes (Robertville), province of Liège. The address is Chemin du Cheneux 50, Robertville.
By car: Take the E421 motorway (Verviers–Prüm), exit 11 at Malmedy. From Malmedy, follow the N681 towards Robertville. Cross the dam at Lac de Robertville, turn left, then left again before the village church, following signs for Reinhardstein. The final stretch is a small, bumpy lane.
Parking: Limited parking is available approximately 600 metres from the castle entrance. If you’re arriving in a larger vehicle or motorhome, park at the first available spot — the lane is too narrow to turn around further along. Alternative parking can be found near the Barrage du Robertville along the Route du Barrage, from which it is a 1.5 km walk.
Public transport: Reinhardstein is difficult to reach without a car. The nearest town with rail connections is Malmedy, from where you would need a taxi or to continue on foot (approximately 6 km).
Opening Hours
- Weekends, public holidays, and Belgian and Dutch school holidays: guided tours every hour from 11:00 to 16:00
- Wednesdays (outside school holidays): guided tour at 14:30
- July and August: also open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 15:30
- Group tours: available year-round on request
Visits are by guided tour only, lasting approximately 75 minutes. Tours are available in English, French, Dutch, and German.
Ticket Prices
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | €15 |
| Children, students & seniors | €13 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
It’s always worth confirming current times and prices directly with the castle before your visit: 📞 +32 80 44 68 68 ✉️ info@reinhardstein.net 🌐 www.reinhardstein.net
What to Wear
The terrain around the castle is rocky and uneven. Good walking shoes or hiking boots are strongly recommended. The valley can be cool and damp even in summer, so bring a layer.
Combine Your Visit With Nearby Attractions
Reinhardstein sits in one of the most scenic corners of eastern Belgium. While you’re in the area, consider combining your visit with:
- Lac de Robertville — a beautiful reservoir just minutes away, great for a lakeside walk
- The High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) — Belgium’s largest nature reserve, with excellent walking and cycling trails and the Signal de Botrange, Belgium’s highest point, just a short drive away
- Bayehon Waterfall — another impressive cascade in the Liège province, worth combining into a day trip
- Spa — the famous spa town is about 30 km west, a great base for exploring the region
- Malmedy — a charming town with good restaurants and accommodation, 6 km away
Accommodation map
Use the map widget below to view the accommodations nearby. Select the dates of your stay to check the availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you go inside Reinhardstein Castle? Yes — but only on a guided tour. Independent exploration of the interior is not permitted. Tours last about 75 minutes and are available in four languages.
Is the waterfall walk difficult? The path to the waterfall is a moderate descent into the valley — manageable for most walkers, but the ground is rocky and can be muddy. Hiking boots are recommended. It’s not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
Is it worth visiting in winter? The castle has limited winter opening hours, but the forest and valley are atmospheric year-round. Check the official website for off-season availability.
Is there anything for children? Children under 6 enter free, and the castle’s armour collection and medieval rooms tend to capture young imaginations. The hike down to the waterfall adds a nice outdoor element to the day.
