There are no dearth of picturesque parks in Brussels and the ideal season to visit them is summer. Well, I might not agree with the popular opinion and mention instead that the ideal season for me is autumn, but summer has its own charm. The verdant green parks definitely beckon for lazing during the day and revel in a little picnic with family and friends.
Here are five of the most interesting parks in Brussels that you must visit this summer. Each of them have a few hidden gems that you might not know of, yet. Do check them and let me know later if you liked them!
- Park Tervuren – One of the most popular parks in all seasons, Tervuren is huge in area and very picturesque with the little lakes. The Africa Museum is not a hidden gem anymore, but there is a string of bronze statues from 1897 that are absolutely amazing. One of them is my favourite – L’Arabe Salem by French sculptor Paul Louis Emile Loiseau-Rousseau.
How to reach: Tram 44 from Montgomery
- Park Josaphat – Built in 1901, Josaphat is a very mystical and esoterically maintained park. Did you know that it is also an open-air mini museum with interesting statues? One of them is of Boreas (the god of North wind) by Belgian sculptor Joseph Vanhamme (1922). Look out for the dates of Kriekenfeest (Cherry festival) held in the park every summer.
How to reach: Bus 56, 59, 64
- Park Duden – I have been living in Brussels for the last five years but I have discovered this park just last autumn! Did you know that this park and the stadium is home of USG (Royale Union St Gilloise) football club? Park Duden is very quiet and peaceful in a way that you can hear birds chirping away in their nests at the top of the tall trees even if the park is full of people.
How to reach: Bus 52, 54, Train S1
- Park Malou – A cute and quiet little getaway from the bustle of this busy city, Park Malou is not far. My favourite spot in this park is on the other side of the lake, facing the Château Malou, sitting pristine with its reflection shimmering in the water. Amongst all the others, don’t miss this one for a picnic or a lazy evening with a book and wine.
How to reach: Bus 28, 29, Metro 1, Tram 8
- Park Cinquantenaire – Probably the most popular and famous park in Brussels, also called Jubel/Merode Park, hosts a few hidden gems that are must see. Most of us know about the Pavilion Horta, designed by Victor Horta, but it hosts a stunning bas-relief inside – made by Jef Lambeaux in 1889 from 17 blocks of Carrera marble. The relief is called ‘Human Passions’ and was controversial during its time. It is open for public visits mostly in summer, do check out the dates and give it a look. I could click a photo from the little grilled window on the door while the building was closed.
How to reach: Bus 34, 60, Metro 1, 5
Do comment here or on my Instagram if you visit any of these, find the hidden gems and like them!
