Marnix van Sint Aldegonde Castle

This neo-Renaissance castle is so beautiful that it is almost kitschy - it seems straight out of a fairy tale.

The huge area surrounding it is decorated with fairytale gardens. The location - on a branch of the Scheldt - contributes to the fairytale appearance.

The Spanish nobleman Don Pedro Coloma, William of Orange's right-hand man, built it, hence the complicated name. If you need to ask for directions, don't worry: it is popularly called Bornem Castle.

Take the time to look inside: the castle has a beautiful collection of 18th-century furniture, engravings by Pieter Breughel the Elder, refined lacework and a room with antique dolls.

Also worth a visit: the De Zilverreiger Regional and Braid Museum in Weert. This museum pays tribute to the forgotten crafts of a bygone era - from basket weaving to cooperage.