Meise is a Belgian municipality located just outside Brussels, in the Flemish Brabant region. Its scenery and quiet atmosphere make it great for a short getaway from the city to relax and enjoy some free time.
1. Where to stay
Sterckxhof is a 17th century ‘closed manor farm’ which takes its name from the Sterckx family who converted the court in the 19th century into a dignified residence for their son, Cardinal Sterckx. The character of the building and the courtyard garden have been well preserved. The former manor is now a luxury B&B offering the perfect setting for a well-deserved mini holiday.
2. What to do
Albeit small, Meise offers a good selection of activities to fill 24 hours.
2.1. D’Hoogvorst hiking path
The D’Hoogvorst path is part of the walking network Brabantse Kouters. It crosses the Meise botanical garden, passing right by the Bouchout castle. It also goes along the military road which offers a great panoramic view over Brussels and, if the weather is clear enough, you could even see as far as the nuclear power plant in Doel. After going by the Church of Sint-Laurentius, the path ends at the Chapel of Sint-Elooi.
2.2. The Meise Botanic Garden
Speaking of the Meise Botanic Garden, it is a perfect place for spending a day with your family. If your time is limited, at least visit the Bouchout castle, which hosts a permanent exhibition about the history of the estate, along always intriguing temporary exhibitions.
If you have a little more time, visit the Plant Palace, where some of the unique species the garden houses can be found. On the estate there are also a lot of spots that are worth taking a picture of, ensuring you have enough memories to share with your friends and family when you get back home.
2.3. Relax Divers Meise
Relax Divers Meise is such a cool group of people who have made the sport of diving their hobby and passion.
Relax Divers Meise
The Relax Divers Meise was formed 10 years ago, started by a group of passionate people. The club now has an extensive team of experienced instructors, thus being able to offer a wide range of training, from the first steps in the diving world to instructor level. Of course, in just 24 hours in Meise you will not become a diving expert, but you could at least take advantage of the free initiation they offer.
2.4. Biking route
A biking route is also available around Meise and it even starts and finishes right next to the Sterckxhof hotel. The map is available on RouteYou and, if a bike is not your first packing priority when going on holidays, no worries, the path is also suitable for walking. At almost 6km long, you will certainly get a healthy appetite after this.
3. Where to eat
As if deciding what to eat is not already hard enough, Meise offers a wide selection of restaurants to make choosing what to get an even tougher endeavour. To help you make a decision, we have selected 2 of the best locales in the area. Both of them are featured on the Michelin guide, still awaiting their stars, but featured nonetheless. And what makes them even better is that, as a guest of Sterckxhof, you will be treated to a complementary aperitif at both.
3.1. Auberge Napoleon
For decades Restaurant Auberge Napoleon has been a well-known address for culinary enthusiasts. In 2011 the premises were completely renovated and converted into a fashionable and stylish restaurant with a cheerful and fresh interior. Every day, hosts Jan and Karleen Stallaert and their young, enthusiastic team delight their guests to the most wonderful culinary creations. Chef Steven Verschueren and his team marry contemporary dishes to a traditional French-Belgian cuisine, everything being fresh and homemade.
3.2. Hof ter Imde
Hof ter Imde is a traditional Brabant farm. Located on the A12, between Meise and Londerzeel, in the middle of the green outskirts of Brussels, the restaurant and its terrace have a certain charm that all visitors fall in love with. Belgian MasterChef Erik Denayer plays a significant role in Belgian gastronomy. The chef and his team guarantee a high gastronomic standard, which is reflected in various culinary menu formulas.
