The former castle of Hoogstraten, also known as Gelmelslot, is a castle with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Today, the castle serves as a Penitentiary School …

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Viviane

August 3, 2025

Hiking

The castle is surrounded by a moat and an estate of approximately 70 hectares, including meadows and farmland. The castle is not open to the public due to its function as a prison.
In the past, the castle also played a role in the Eighty Years' War, where it played a significant role in the battle between Spanish and Dutch troops, according to BENEGO.

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ShadowHiker. Lid HikeClub

October 27, 2022

Hiking

not accessible

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Best routes to Hoogstraten Prison (Former Castle)

4.4

(21)

hikers

1. The Merkske Wooden Bridge – The Laermolen Watermill loop from Wortel

15.8km

04:00

30m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

3.7

(10)

hikers

2. The Laermolen Watermill – 't Withof loop from Hoogstraten

6.38km

01:37

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.4

(10)

hikers

3. The Merkske Wooden Bridge – Wortel-Kolonie loop from Hoogstraten

19.2km

04:50

30m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 20 m

Weather

Friday 6 February

12°C

3°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Location: Hoogstraten, Turnhout, Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium

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Hoogstraten Prison (Former Castle)

1. The Merkske Wooden Bridge – The Laermolen Watermill loop from Wortel

2. The Laermolen Watermill – 't Withof loop from Hoogstraten

3. The Merkske Wooden Bridge – Wortel-Kolonie loop from Hoogstraten

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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