Belgium’s nobles and gentry took great pleasure in constructing mighty fortresses, idyllic pleasure gardens, and expansive hunting grounds in the lush countryside surrounding Brussels. Today, these sites have become irresistibly beautiful parks and gardens — perfect for a peaceful stroll away from the city’s bustle. What follows are Flemish Brabant’s finest walking treasures.
Gaasbeek Museum Garden – Unparalleled World-Class Gardeners
They dined on sea kale, and leafy goosefoot (a relative of spinach), and plucked ripe fruit freely. The castle’s garden was their culinary paradise. Every bite came from produce untouched by toxic pesticides and harsh weed killers — substances that hadn’t yet been invented in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The castle’s residents relied on the skill and techniques of their gardeners, who were among the finest growers of their era. Gardeners from across the globe came to the Green Belt to learn how to cultivate vegetables and berries from the best. Today, the gardeners at Gaasbeek Museum Garden continue to uphold that legacy, preserving the horticultural heritage and time-honoured Belgian traditions.
Make it a full day trip by visiting the Castle of Gaasbeek, then unwinding in the peaceful Groenenberg park or admiring the colourful rose gardens of Coloma. Coloma is especially worth a visit in June, when the roses are in full bloom.
Domein Drie Fonteinen – Historic Charm and Leisure in Harmony
Nestled in Vilvoorde, Domein Drie Fonteinen blends nature, history, and recreation. This 50-hectare estate dates back to the 18th century and was once a noble retreat. Strolling through its landscaped gardens, tree-lined paths, and romantic pond views, visitors experience both serenity and elegance. The historic orangery and the remains of the original fountain installations add a touch of grandeur, while modern amenities like the playground and sports zones invite families for a full day out. It’s an ideal spot to soak in Flemish Brabant’s garden heritage at a relaxed pace.
Meise Botanic Garden – The Biggest Flower on the Planet
Belgium is home to around 1,400 native wild plant species, but in Meise, you can explore 18,000 from across the world. Established in 1796 — before Belgium itself — Meise Botanic Garden features Europe’s largest and most captivating network of greenhouses. You can journey through a variety of landscapes: from deserts to savannahs to steamy tropical rainforests. This 92-hectare garden is a true botanical oasis, showcasing the splendour of the natural world. Fun fact: the titan arum, the world’s largest flower, blooms here.
Park Ter Rijst, Heikruis – Hidden Woodland Elegance
Park Ter Rijst in Heikruis is one of Flemish Brabant’s most serene secrets. The park surrounds a stately 19th-century castle and covers an expansive area of gently sloping meadows, ancient trees, and reflective ponds. Ideal for contemplative walks or quiet picnics, its English landscape design offers a peaceful retreat in the Pajottenland countryside. The stillness and the scenic views make it a favourite for nature lovers and those looking to escape into a more contemplative environment. It’s less frequented by tourists, adding to its charm as a hidden gem.
Tervuren’s Warande Park – Centuries of Elegant History and Heritage
Originally a 12th-century hunting ground for the Dukes of Brabant, Tervuren’s Warande Park carries centuries of aristocratic history. Visitors can explore traces of its noble past, from the ruins of the ducal palace and the baroque St Hubert Chapel (1617) to the grand Colonial Palace and the Africa Museum. Spanning 205 hectares, the park blends formal French and English gardens with expansive walking paths. It also features a rich arboretum showcasing diverse tree species. The landscape flows seamlessly into the Sonian Forest, offering a natural extension for longer walks and deeper immersion in nature.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of botany, or simply seeking a tranquil day outdoors, Flemish Brabant’s parks and gardens offer something unique for everyone. From centuries-old rose collections to avant-garde rock gardens and tropical glasshouses, these green havens are a testament to Belgium’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Plan your visit, breathe in the beauty, and walk through stories rooted deep in the region’s past.
