The Château d’Argenteau, located in the Belgian town of Visé, is about to get a makeover. Architect Luc Spits and businessman Yannick Bouts are joining forces to transform the castle into a 5-star resort by 2029.
Visé’s Château d’Argenteau has a long history. The castle was originally built in the 17th century, was then heavily transformed in the 18th century, and has been renovated many times since. Thanks to its dominant position overlooking the Meuse river and its garden filled with remarkable trees, the domain as a whole has sparked the interest of many chateau lovers over the years.
By 2029, the Château will once again be getting a new lease of life. Liège-based architect Luc Spits, who bought the castle, and businessman Yannick Bouts, the man behind Belgium’s first five-star resort La Réserve in Knokke, will be working together on the transformation of the property.
“The first time I walked through the château, I felt something immediately: this isn’t just a project, it’s a destination in the making. Luc has a clear vision and the ambition to create something that will put Belgium back on the international map of luxury hospitality,” Yannick Bouts said about the project.
However, given the historical value of the building and its surrounding park, obtaining planning permission demanded a lot of effort. According to Visé’s Deputy Mayor for Urban Planning, Xavier Malmendier, two major conditions were non-negotiable. On the one hand, the conservation of the facades and the protected parts of the interior, such as the chapel and the library. On the other hand, the conservation of the park and its remarkable trees, which will be freely accessible to the public.
What will the project look like?
The project, as it was agreed upon, will count 71 rooms and suites, a brasserie, a gastronomic restaurant aiming for a Michelin star, event spaces, a wellness space, and more. The official opening has been planned for 2029.
In the lead-up to the opening, Charlotte Spits will be trained by Yannick Bouts in order to be able to become the resort’s general manager by 2029.
“I see enormous potential in Charlotte. It is essential that she experiences firsthand what top-level hospitality means. That is why, in the coming years, she will not only stay at some of the best hotels in Europe, such as Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris, The Ritz Paris, and Cheval Blanc Paris, but will also work behind the scenes at leading resorts and hotels. The combination of education and practical experience at the highest level is crucial for delivering an exceptional guest experience,” stated Bouts.
At the start of April 2026, Yannnick Bouts already revealed he would be taking on a new challenge. Together with Louis Kemps Jr., Dries Schietaert, and Simon Croonen, he will be developing a new three-day automobile event called Hasselt Élégance powered by Get Driven.
