Discover Edegem: Fort 5, Trails and Culture

Edegem combines historic sites, signposted trails and special cultural attractions. At its heart is Fort 5, with its trails, nature experiences and family-friendly opportunities for discovery. There is also Hof Ter Linden, several protected or historically significant buildings and a local heritage museum with fixed opening hours. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Edegem can therefore tailor their stay to their own interests, combining outdoor activities, history and peaceful sightseeing moments.

Fort 5: History, Trails and Nature Experiences

Fort 5 is part of the forward fortification belt of eight forts around Antwerp. It was built according to a design by A.H. Brialmont. The site therefore offers an insight into the region’s military history, without limiting the visit to historical information: Fort 5 is open every day of the year from 6:45 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The long daily opening hours allow for different types of day planning.

An eastern and a western trail with a wooden footbridge run through Fort 5 and the grounds of Hof Ter Linden. Together, they form a 5-kilometre loop for walking or jogging. Those who enjoy exploring on foot will find a clearly described route with a specific length. The signposted nature experience trail complements this offering. It includes a large treehouse and a birdwatching wall. The Dikke-Bertha adventure playground also has a zip line. These various elements make it possible to combine physical activity, nature observation and playful stops during a stay.

Hof Ter Linden and Other Historic Sites

Hof Ter Linden Castle, together with its coach houses, was built in 1773 by the noble de Neuf family. Behind the buildings is a park with a pond and a pavilion.

Kasteel Arendsnest is also one of the notable historic destinations in Edegem. The protected ensemble includes the buildings, the park and the moat. At Kasteel Arendsnest, visitors can see the gate, part of the garden and the castle. This precise distinction is useful when planning a trip: the site offers a historic focal point, while Fort 5 and Hof Ter Linden additionally provide trails and nature experiences.

Edegem’s history and religious culture also include the OLV-van-Lourdesbasiliek Edegem and the Sint-Antoniuskerk Edegem. The grounds of the basilica contain a grotto built in 1884 based on the model of the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes. The western tower of Sint-Antoniuskerk Edegem has stood since 1500. Behind the altar is a copy of Rubens’ “Descent from the Cross”, painted by Pieter Van den Bemden, one of his pupils. The church has been protected as a monument since 1947.

Planning Accommodation in Edegem

When searching for a holiday apartment in Edegem, it is worth deciding on your preferred focus in advance. If you would like to include a 5-kilometre loop for walking or jogging, Fort 5 and Hof Ter Linden are the main attractions. If you are more interested in architectural history and religious art, Kasteel Arendsnest, the basilica and Sint-Antoniuskerk offer different points of interest. The nature experience trail, with its treehouse, birdwatching wall and zip line, expands the choice with activities that can also be interesting during a stay with children. When choosing your accommodation, check which location suits your personal daily itinerary, without limiting the trip to just one activity.

For an insight into local history, the Edegem local heritage museum has fixed visiting hours: it is open on the first and third Sunday of each month from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. These times can be incorporated into your plans. When planning your day, Fort 5’s daily opening hours contrast with the fixed visiting hours of the local heritage museum.

More Places for Your Trip Planning

If you would like to compare other destinations in addition to Edegem, you can also visit the following places: Duffel, Laakdal, Dessel, Eindhout, Lint, Puurs, Ranst and Zoersel.

For the broader travel overview: Province of Antwerp.