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Bois de la Cambre: Brussels' Urban Oasis

Escape to Brussels' green heart: Bois de la Cambre, a sprawling park offering recreation, tranquility, and a touch of nature just moments from the city center.

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Escape the bustle of Brussels in the sprawling Bois de la Cambre, a 123-hectare urban park offering a refreshing connection to nature. Designed in 1861 by German architect Edouard Keilig, this verdant space provides a diverse landscape for recreation and relaxation. Stroll along winding paths, enjoy a picnic on expansive lawns, or explore the wooded areas that extend from the Sonian Forest. A central lake features Robinson Island, accessible by a small ferry, where the Chalet Robinson restaurant offers a charming dining experience. Whether you're seeking outdoor activities, a peaceful retreat, or a family outing, Bois de la Cambre provides a welcome respite within the city limits. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its appeal as a dynamic and engaging public space. With its blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Bois de la Cambre is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a green escape in Brussels.

A brief summary to Bois de la Cambre

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other activities that may coincide with your visit.
  • Rent a bike to explore the park's extensive network of paths and discover hidden corners.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal on one of the park's many lawns.
  • Take the electric ferry to Robinson Island and dine at the Chalet Robinson for a unique dining experience.
  • Be aware that traffic restrictions may be in place on weekends and holidays; plan your visit accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Several tram and bus lines provide access to Bois de la Cambre. Tram lines 8 and 25 stop at 'Brésil' which is a short walk from the park's edge. Bus lines 41 stops at 'Gendarmes', closer to the park's center. From the city center, a single ticket costs €2.30 if purchased in advance or €2.50 if purchased on the bus. A 24-hour ticket costs €8.40, offering unlimited travel within Brussels.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brussels. A taxi from the city center to Bois de la Cambre typically costs between €11 and €17, depending on traffic and the specific location within the park. Uber and other ride-sharing apps also operate in Brussels, offering a similar price range. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking areas are located near Bois de la Cambre, including along Avenue Diane, Avenue de Flore and Avenue Victoria. Parking within the park is possible, but can be limited, especially on weekends. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1.00 for an hour or €3.00 for 2 hours in the yellow zone. Some areas offer free parking with a parking disc for a limited time (typically 2 hours) in the blue zone. Be aware that traffic restrictions are often in place on weekends and holidays, with the southern loop closed to car traffic.

  • Ferry

    To reach the Chalet Robinson, located on Robinson Island in the center of the lake, you'll need to take a small electric ferry. The ferry operates regularly and costs €1 per person for a round trip.

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Discover more about Bois de la Cambre

Bois de la Cambre, also known as Ter Kamerenbos, is a sprawling urban park located in the southern part of Brussels, offering a green escape from the city's energetic core. Covering 123 hectares (approximately 300 acres), this park serves as a natural extension of the Sonian Forest, creating a vital link between urban life and the tranquility of nature. Designed by German landscape architect Edouard Keilig in 1861, the Bois de la Cambre was envisioned as a recreational space for the growing city of Brussels. Inspired by the Bois de Boulogne in Paris, Keilig crafted a landscape that blends open spaces with wooded areas, providing a diverse environment for various activities. The park's creation coincided with the development of Avenue Louise, a grand thoroughfare that connects the city center to the park's entrance, further enhancing its accessibility and appeal. Throughout its history, the Bois de la Cambre has been a focal point for leisure and recreation. In its early years, the park featured a cycling track, a trotting track, a theater, and even a dairy farm. While these specific features have evolved over time, the park remains a hub of activity, attracting walkers, joggers, cyclists, and families seeking outdoor enjoyment. The park's extensive network of paths meanders through diverse landscapes, from open lawns perfect for picnics to shaded wooded areas ideal for leisurely strolls. One of the park's most iconic features is its artificial lake, a six-hectare expanse of water that adds to the park's scenic charm. In the center of the lake lies Robinson Island, a small island accessible by an electric ferry. The island is home to the Chalet Robinson, a restaurant with a rich history. Originally built in 1877 as a Swiss-style tea room, the Chalet Robinson has been destroyed by fire twice, most recently in 1991. Rebuilt in 2009, the current Chalet Robinson offers a restaurant and ballroom, providing a unique dining and event space surrounded by the tranquil waters of the lake. The Bois de la Cambre is not only a place for recreation but also a venue for various events and activities throughout the year. From outdoor concerts and festivals to sporting events and community gatherings, the park serves as a dynamic public space that brings people together. Its accessibility by public transportation, including trams and buses, makes it easy for residents and visitors to reach and enjoy. In recent years, there has been increasing attention to the park's management and preservation. Efforts have been made to balance the needs of various users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, while also protecting the park's natural environment. Initiatives to promote sustainable transportation and reduce traffic within the park have been implemented, aiming to enhance the park's appeal as a green space for all to enjoy. As a protected landscape and a designated special protection zone within the Natura 2000 network, the Bois de la Cambre holds significant ecological value. Its diverse habitats support a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the city's biodiversity. The park also plays a crucial role in providing green space for residents, improving air quality, and mitigating the effects of climate change. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a place for outdoor activities, or a venue for community events, the Bois de la Cambre offers a multifaceted experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of Brussels. Its rich history, diverse landscape, and ongoing commitment to sustainability make it a cherished landmark for generations to come. Visiting the Bois de la Cambre is an experience that changes with the seasons. In spring, the park bursts into life with blooming flowers and budding trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors. Summer brings warm days perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and outdoor activities. Autumn transforms the park into a picturesque landscape of golden hues as the leaves change color. Even in winter, the park offers a serene beauty, with snow-covered paths and frosted trees creating a magical atmosphere. The Bois de la Cambre is more than just a park; it's a living, breathing part of Brussels' identity. It's a place where people come to connect with nature, to exercise, to socialize, and to escape the stresses of urban life. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer something for everyone, making it a truly special place in the heart of the city.

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