Steenokkerzeel combines plane spotting with walks through historic places and open countryside. Options range from viewpoints near the runways to moated castles and churches, as well as walking routes with different points of interest. You can tailor your stay to what interests you most: aircraft, architectural history, nature or local produce.
Watch aircraft up close
The 25L Spotters’ Platform offers a view of the runways and is ideal for plane photography. Aircraft fly almost directly overhead there. From the car park, it takes about seven minutes to reach the platform on foot. Another option is the Vliegtuigspottersroute, which leads to viewpoints near the extended runways where you can watch aircraft up close. The route also offers views of Floordambos. The platform and the route offer different experiences: one fixed viewpoint here, several viewpoints along a route there.
Moated castles, churches and local history
Kasteel van Ham is a moated castle built from local sandstone. Four corner towers define the building, which was constructed between 1490 and 1505. De Vleug, also known as Duifhuis, also reflects the history of the “Ter Ham” castle: the building was probably built between 1495 and 1508 as an observation post and was restored in the early 2000s. The probable construction period and later restoration mark different chapters in its history.
In Melsbroek, the history of Sint-Martinuskerk dates back to the 12th century; the church was originally built in the Romanesque style. The former chaplain’s house stands right beside it. Baroness Gisberte de Locquenghien of Melsbroek had it built between 1717 and 1720. In Humelgem, the beautifully restored Romanesque Sint-Katarinakerk stands at the heart of the village. Those interested in historic architectural styles will find more here than a single church or castle visit: the buildings differ in function, construction period and connection to the local area.
Walking routes through varied landscapes
The Ter-Ham Walk leads through the charming linear village of Steenokkerzeel, past historic buildings and along quiet country lanes and green paths. It is signposted entirely with themed signs, not junction markers. The Meldebroek Walk is also signposted entirely with themed signs rather than junction markers. The Bosakker Walk starts at Kasteel ter Ham, a renovated 15th-century moated castle, and leads first through woodland, then across open fields with expansive views. The Pittoreske-Perk Walk focuses on Sint-Jannekensstraat, where lovely 17th-century houses line the street. The Nutteloze Borden Walking Route is permanently available and can be walked at any time. Whether you want to focus on woodland and open fields, historic buildings or an old village street, the routes described offer different highlights.
Nature and a glimpse of the region
Domein van Perk is privately owned; the estate and castle can be seen from the surrounding roads and walking paths. The enclosed park covers 90 hectares and includes meadows, woodland, other areas and ponds. It is described as a nature and bird reserve. The landscape therefore brings together several elements, but the privately owned estate should not be confused with a freely accessible park. The local landscape is also shaped by cultivation at Wijndomein Landakkershof, where Pinot noir, Solaris, Cabernet blanc and Johanniter are now grown.
Local produce and activities
Ground-grown chicory is in season from October to April; during this period, the local vegetable is available from retailers in Steenokkerzeel. Availability may vary by retailer, so it is worth asking locally. An apple variety also tells a story about the area’s agricultural history: “Suprême de Perck” was rediscovered and cultivated in Perk, returning it to its region of origin.
Paard & Kar offers horse-drawn carriage driving introductions for young and old. Horse-drawn carriage rides are also available for birthday celebrations. Confirm your participation with the provider; activities may need to be arranged in advance.
Discover more destinations: Wemmel, Tervuren, Jette, Corbais, Braine-L'alleud, Asse, Piétrebais, Glabbeek.
For the wider travel overview: Brabant.
