The quality of living in a city depends on many different things – one of them surely being the number of parks that the city offers to the people, having the green areas of nature and peace spread out like small escapes integrated in the urban part of the city. In this respect, Brussels can certainly be at the top of the list – the busy capital of Europe boasts with an impressive number of parks, the relaxing greenery of which is much needed. While there are many worth mentioning and exploring, we decided to show you our top five that also have a little extra – ponds and lakes:
1. Ixelles Ponds
Probably one of the most famous ponds in Brussels, the Ixelles Ponds are located just next to the very popular square Flagey, one of the centers of both day- and nightlife. Take a walk along the two beautiful ponds that with the surrounding park create the beginning of the green strip going as far as the Sonian Forest. Don’t be surprised if you see patient fishermen on the shore – fishing is allowed on Wednesdays, Sundays and public holidays but of course, once caught, the fish needs to be returned to the pond.
2. Leopold Park
Right within the European Quarter, it would be unfair not to mention this wonderful green hotspot attracting not only many EU officials and business people during their lunch break but also residents and tourists wanting to take a break from the city while in the very (EU) heart of it. With a charming pond serving as playground for a variety of birds and adjacent to the European Parliament, Park Leopold also houses museums and institutes as well as the House of the European History which is well worth visiting right after enjoying the nature.
3. Bois de la Cambre
Perfect for a getaway on a sunny Brussels weekend, Bois de la Cambre is definitely one of the favourite spots of locals in need for nature and greenery. Linked to the city by the bustling Avenue Louise, this urban public park is the best setting for numerous activities – from biking, jogging, playing badminton or Frisbee to having Yoga or Tai-chi classes or just plain relaxing and having a picnic. The lake boasts a small island called Robinson’s island – feel free to discover!
4. Park Tournay – Solvay
Located at the edge of the Sonian Forest, though one of the most beautiful parks in Brussels, the Tournay-Solvay park is not as well known as other parks, even to locals. The English-style garden with a variety of exotic trees and wildlife just calls for a walk and with each step you will discover something new – from an old castle and rose garden to a beautiful pond and community gardens tempting the passers-by with the many delicious fruit growing there like apples and pears.
5. Ganshoren swamp
A bit untraditional but nevertheless gorgeous, we had to bring the Ganshoren swamp to your attention. The wet meadows and marshes with reed beds give it a very rural look while at some points you can still see apartment buildings standing high, giving an impressive contrast to the nature, creating a unique experience of the border between the nature and the city. Home to many animals and plants, the swamp is often visited by aromatherapists teaching small groups about benefits of different plants on human health.
6. Tenbosch
As a small treat at the end, we present this true gem – Tenbosch. A green oasis just a stone’s throw from Avenue Louise, this beautiful park with a small pond is perfect for an afternoon read, walk with friends or a weekend picnic. The kids can play on a charming playground surrounded by the many different kinds of trees and flowers that, with their different blooming season, always give the park another look and something to discover. With its variety of plants, Tenbosch is also home to many birds creating beautiful soundscape, making it a soothing bubble of nature in a usually busy area.
