Bois de la Cambre: Brussels' Urban Oasis
Discover Brussels' beloved Bois de la Cambre: a historic park offering a tranquil escape with a lake, trails, and recreational activities.
Bois de la Cambre, also known as Ter Kamerenbos, is a 1.23 km2 urban park located in the City of Brussels, serving as a green lung for the capital. Designed in 1861 by German architect Edouard Keilig, the park was inspired by English landscaping and quickly became a popular recreational area for Brussels residents, reminiscent of the Bois de Boulogne in Paris. The park's landscape is characterized by irregular plantations and roads, alternating between wooded areas and open spaces, creating picturesque scenes. The northern part is heavily wooded, featuring 19th-century buildings, while the southern part boasts a 6-hectare artificial lake with Robinson Island at its center, accessible by ferry and home to the Chalet Robinson restaurant. Throughout its history, Bois de la Cambre has been a focal point for recreation and leisure. Once home to a cycling track, trotting track, and even a dairy farm, today it offers paths for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and spaces for picnics and relaxation. The park also hosts various events and festivals, adding to its appeal. Key features include the Pelouse des Anglais, a lawn where English soldiers played cricket on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, and a rustic bridge spanning a ravine. The park is a natural extension of the Sonian Forest, providing a vital green space within the urban environment.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch by the lake.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the trails.
- Check the local calendar for events and festivals held in the park.
A brief summary to Bois de la Cambre
- Brussels, BE
- +3225138940
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Brussels city center, take tram line 8 towards Marie-Jose. The tram journey takes approximately 20 minutes, and trams depart every 15 minutes. Several bus lines also serve the park, including lines 41, 71, and others. A single journey ticket costs €2.10 - €2.50. Purchase tickets at GO vending machines, KIOSK or BOOTIK ticket offices, or via contactless payment.
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Walking
If you are near Avenue Louise in Brussels, you can walk to Bois de la Cambre. Head south on Avenue Louise until you reach the park entrance. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Enjoy the scenery as you approach this green urban space.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Brussels. A taxi ride from the city center to Bois de la Cambre typically takes 13 minutes and costs between €22 and €27. Taxi stands are located at major transport hubs and can be hailed on the street.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that traffic restrictions may be in place, especially on weekends and holidays when the park is often closed to car traffic. Parking is available inside the park, including a fixed parking area near the Theatre de Poche. Paid parking is enforced from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 7 pm. Parking fees range from €1.00 for 1 hour to €3.00 for 2 hours. ParkBee Bois de la Cambre car park is another option.
Attractions Nearby to Bois de la Cambre
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Villa Empain
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Université Libre de Bruxelles
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Statue Baron Lemonnier / 1860-1930
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Observatoire royal de Belgique
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Les Enfants Noyés
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Children's Museum Brussels
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Reigerbospark
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Vuylbeek valley
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Tenbosch park
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Wolvendael Park
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Ixelles Ponds
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Monument à Charles De Coster
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Place Eugène Flagey
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Horta Museum
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Hôtel Tassel
Landmarks nearby to Bois de la Cambre
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Monument Jean de Selys Longchamps
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Monument aux Pionniers Coloniaux d'Ixelles
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Brussels
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Hôtel Solvay
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Parcours BD La femme léopard
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Louis Morichar Place
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Square Châtelaillon-Plage
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Parc Pierre Paulus
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St Alène Church
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Duden Park
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Birthplace of Audrey Hepburn
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Saint-Boniface square
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Commune De St-Gilles - Gemeente St-Gillis
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Yakari
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Brux./Brus.-Luxemb.