Hof Zevenbergen Castle and Grotto

Hof Zevenbergen is a reflection and meeting center. On the domain is a recently built castle, surrounded by a moat and an extensive woodland garden. It is a place of peace and quiet in a green oasis, near the center of Ranst and adjacent to the Zevenbergenbos nature reserve. An ideal place to retreat for a while and then re-enter the world with renewed energy and insights. All areas are accessible for wheelchair users. There are also adapted sanitary facilities.

The history of Hof Zevenbergen
Hof Zevenbergen: a 'colorful' history

The long history of Zevenbergen Castle begins at the end of the 13th century. Noble families with their colorful histories have lived here for many centuries. The castle is passed on from generation to generation through inheritance and thus stands the test of time. In 1914, at the start of the First World War, it is destroyed.
From 1934, an outbuilding has been occupied by Valentine de Gilman, the sole heiress. During a difficult period, Valentine is taken in by the sisters of the Convent of Bethlehem. In 1953 she donates part of her property, the domain of the castle and adjacent woods, to the sisters in gratitude.
The Convent of Bethlehem and Hof Zevenbergen

The first years that Hof Zevenbergen is in our possession, it is used for holidays and retreats. Some sisters live there.
In 1977 the house gets a completely different destination. It will be a place of welcome and reflection. This is how Bible and spirituality groups are created. Anyone who wants can pray and celebrate. At the same time, young women who feel called to religious life in the spirit of the Convent of Bethlehem receive their postulate and novitiate formation (1978-1995).
Hof Zevenbergen is growing into a home for formation and reflection for many students, religious and groups of all kinds. A group of people forms around the sister community who carry the house and are fascinated by the spirituality of the Incarnation.
Source: conventvanbetlehem.be/convent-vandaag/hof-zevenbergen

Beautiful castle with moat located in a forest of Natuurpunt. Here you will find a Virgin Mary cave and an old entrance gate. A beautiful gravel road runs through the Zevenbergenbos.