The Holy Roman Emperor Charles V stayed here, as did William of Orange. The Wilden family have now taken over this historic castle and have transformed it into a contemporary boutique hotel with an excellent restaurant. From the 18th century to the 1950s, the castle was the residence of the Merckelbach family, and they were the last to use it as a home.
Now with soundproofed and air conditioned rooms, Château Wittem is ready for a new era. The atmosphere of the decor in the 12 guestrooms is ‘French chic’. Each room has a name and a story related to important figures in the castle’s long history, which goes back to 1125. Restaurant Julemont is named after knight Winand van Julemont, who moved into the chateau around 1200.
Chef Guido Braeken serves French classics and regional favourites. Wittem is close to the border with Belgium, almost exactly between Maastricht in the Netherlands and Aachen in Germany.
At restaurant Julemont (named after the knight who moved into the castle around 1200), chef Guido Braeken breathes new life into French classics, with oysters, lobster and foie gras accompanied by a good glass of wine or champagne. But the castle kitchen also produces delicious regional dishes, prepared using local produce. The charming wine cellar is also well worth a visit. The treasures of Château Wittem are waiting to provide all the ingredients of an unforgettable evening.
Opening hours
Thursday to Sunday 12.00 – 3.00pm and Wednesday to Sunday 6.00 – 9.00pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday
It’s on the terrace at Château Wittem that you can really appreciate the surroundings. Weather permitting, it’s wonderful to eat outside. There’s a marvellous view of the castle gardens, which has a number of truly impressive old trees; the sturdy oaks, rugged plane trees and spreading chestnuts provide shade on hot summer days and enhance the sense of history.