Rixensart between heritage and nature

Rixensart can be explored through a variety of interests: the architectural history of Château de Rixensart dates back to a 13th-century keep, while trails by Lac de Genval and in Parc du Héron invite you to enjoy the outdoors. There is also an archery tradition, which you can discover both historically and in practice at the Musée du Tir à l’Arc. For planning, it helps to distinguish these highlights: heritage, walks and active experiences each shape a different day in Rixensart.

Castle history and Wallonia’s heritage

Château de Rixensart brings together two widely separated periods of construction: the château was built in the 17th century on the site of a 13th-century keep. The keep therefore represents the earlier phase at the site, and the Château the later building; this sequence gives the history of the place a tangible framework. The complex includes the parish church of Sainte-Croix, which formerly served as the castle chapel. Thus, the ensemble combines castle history with its present-day parish function. The Château is classified as exceptional heritage of Wallonia. This classification makes it a distinctive cultural and historical highlight of Rixensart. If history is your main consideration when choosing where to stay, this heritage complex may be one reason to get to know Rixensart better.

Walks by the lake and in the park

The circuit around Lac de Genval is approximately 3 km long. The 14-hectare Parc du Héron has various trails for nature walks through the park. The two options differ in terms of planning: a circuit of approximately known length, or nature walks on several trails in the park. An approximate distance helps you gauge the circuit around the lake; the various trails in Parc du Héron offer a different way to plan a nature walk.

Archery and a treasure hunt

The Musée du Tir à l’Arc explores the use of the bow from prehistoric times to the present day. It also covers the origins of vertical Popinjay shooting as a leisure activity. Visitors can try vertical or horizontal Popinjay shooting at the museum; equipment is provided. If you are interested in the history of the bow, you can follow its story from prehistoric times to the present day; if you would rather take part in an activity, you can try two forms of Popinjay shooting, vertical and horizontal. As the opportunity to try it may change, check the latest information in advance.

The Totemus treasure hunt «Au fil de l'eau, à tire-d'aile du héron» starts at Château du Lac, Avenue du Lac 87, 1332 Rixensart (Genval). Together, the museum and the treasure hunt offer two ways to enjoy an active stay: trying out a sporting tradition at the museum, or taking part in a treasure hunt with a fixed starting point.

When looking for a holiday rental in Rixensart, you can start with the kind of holiday you want: cultural and historical themes, walks or a hands-on activity. Consider which of these highlights you want to shape your stay most; this will help you choose Rixensart in a way that suits your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Waterloo, Ottignies-Louvain-La-Neuve, Geetbets, Willebringen, Dilbeek, Wavre, Tienen, Genappe

See the overview of the wider region: Brabant.