Off the beaten path in Brussels' green belt
The green belt around Brussels is an oasis of peace and beauty. Its hidden gems take you away from urban bustle, leading you past imposing castles and beautiful gardens. Enjoy nature and heritage on foot or by bike in the green belt around Brussels.
Brussels, a vibrant city at the heart of Europe, is brimming with grandeur and history, heritage and pralines, craft-brewed Belgian beers, comic book culture, surrealism, a world-class cuisine scene, and much more — but just beyond the buzz of the city, find the peaceful green belt surrounding Brussels, a haven of tranquility. Whether on foot or by bike, you can explore a wealth of historic castles and gardens nestled in lush landscapes.
Three historic castles, surrounded by greenery
Just 10 kilometers from the city center lies the stunning Meise Botanic Garden. Here, in one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, you can admire a living collection of over 8,000 different plant species. In the expansive glasshouse complex more than 12,000 unique tropical and sub-tropical species are on display. In the heart of this verdant domain sits the beautifully preserved Bouchout Castle. Its 12th-century keep still towers proudly over the grounds. Inside, a captivating exhibition reveals the rich history of the estate and its former residents. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
Another highlight is the fairy-tale Gaasbeek Castle. Set in a magnificent 49-hectare castle park, this is the perfect place to completely unwind. Take a leisurely stroll through ancient trees, ponds, grand avenues, and historic buildings in this peaceful retreat from the daily hustle and bustle. Interested in its fascinating past? You’re in luck. Gaasbeek Castle also houses a museum featuring a rich collection of antique furniture, tapestries, paintings, sculptures, fine metalwork, and much more. It offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the lords and ladies who once lived here.
Good things come in threes, so make sure you also visit Groot-Bijgaarden Castle. This imposing, moated castle can only be admired from the outside, but the surrounding park alone is worth the trip. Each spring, the castle grounds are transformed into the dazzling Floralia Brussels flower exhibition, a vibrant spectacle of blooming colors. You truly have to see it to believe it.
The wonders don’t end with these hidden gems, as many more secrets await you. Soak up the green grandeur of Huizingen Castle, for example, take a journey back to the Middle Ages at Beersel Castle, or discover the picture-perfect Coloma Castle. These historic castles and gardens shed a different light on Brussels’ green belt.
1/
Art Cities Route
The Art Cities Route connects the art cities of Brussels, Leuven, Mechelen, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges, right to the coast at Ostend.
2/
Art Cities Route
The Art Cities Route connects the art cities of Brussels, Leuven, Mechelen, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges, right to the coast at Ostend.
Things to consider before traveling
How to choose your accommodation in Europe: a guide
In Europe, there is accommodation for every wish, price range, and desired experience. Whether it’s a tent suspended between two trees, a five-star hotel with a view of a turquoise sea, or a wallet-friendly hostel, it’s all here. The question is, what specific options do you have and how do you go about choosing? That’s […]
The ultimate guide to European currencies
How to convert cash, use cards, and reduce fees One of the great benefits of traveling around Europe is the ease of use when it comes to currencies. On much of the continent, you don’t need to worry about keeping different bills and coins or making mental-math conversations between one currency to another to […]
How to stay safe while traveling in Europe
No matter what, safety while traveling is most important. Luckily, Europe has a stellar safety record, and more than a dozen of its countries regularly appear at the top end of safest places to live and travel lists. To make your adventure safe and secure, consider these tips and best practices! Travel insurance […]
What you need to enter Europe
Visas, documents, and passports So, you are planning to visit Europe. Great! We will be happy to welcome you and share what makes this continent so unique. Here are answers to the most common questions about preparing for your trip. Addressing them now will make your travels smooth, easy, and convenient! Who needs a […]
Your complete guide to planning your daily life in Europe
Tips on local languages, mobile tech, and time zones We all know the feeling: your phone battery is dying or you’re passing through an area of weak signal. At home, it’s usually a simple annoyance, but when you’re traveling, not having access to a communications device is something you’ll want to avoid. So, how […]
Some tips to consider while traveling
Traveling around Europe
Your guide to trains, trams, busses and bikes Europe has one of the most advanced transportation systems in the world. From massive metropolises to small towns, you can easily link up from place to place by public transport. Riding the rails across this marvelous continent might be the best way to explore: it’s highly efficient, […]
Tips to communicate in Europe
Why speaking a few words of the local tongue will make your travel experience even better As you may have guessed, English is widely spoken in Europe, especially in northern countries. In many other countries, people have a good, if not fluent, grasp of the language. But that doesn’t mean that learning—and indeed using! […]
Your guide to passenger rights while traveling in Europe
If you’re a traveler, you’ve probably experienced a delay, cancellation, or other unforeseen issue. Of course, no one wants this, but it’s important to be prepared and perhaps most of all, to know your rights and privileges if a problem arises. So, what are your rights in Europe? Keep reading! Air Passenger Rights So, […]