Brussels greenery : Parc du Cinquantenaire

Spring has finally arrived in our cities, homes and hearts. If you are one of those people who live in the glorious Belgium capital Brussels, then you are probably rolling your eyes so hard they got stuck in the back of your head and asking: "What Spring?!". The truth is, Spring is not a common thing in Brussels, and it always arrives with a slight delay, hand in hand with the beloved Summer. However, even with just a few rays of sun, the beauty of Brussels' greenery will definitely not leave you indifferent. The city has a lot of green spots to offer which will definitely make your visit much more pleasant. Join me on this journey in revealing the Brussels nature spots and allow me to begin with a gem, one of the biggest in the city, Parc du Cinquantenaire.

In fact, Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of the largest green yet urban areas of Brussels, located at the very heart of the European Quarter, surrounded by the European Institutions. It is very convenient that upon taking pictures at the Schuman roundabout, you can decide to escape from the busy European Quarter and have a stroll in this enchanting park.

As you enter the park, you will notice the incredible, breath-taking signature of the Parc du Cinquantenaire – the Triumphal Arc, along with the U-shaped buildings, dating way back to the 19th Century and the patronage of King Leopold II.  However, the glorious Triumphal Arc was built at the very beginning of the 20th Century, symbolizing the advanced economic and industrial performance of Belgium. This is by far one of the most Instagramable spots in Brussels, for all of you who are into having a great picture feed. In that case, I would suggest you to come to this park late in the afternoon, and watch the sunset, as it is by far the most amazing view from here. Grab a bottle of vine or a famous Belgian beer, a simple blanket, a loved one and enjoy the view of the Triumphal Arc and the sunset.

What is great about Parc du Cinquantenaire is that is full of picturesque gardens, ponds and waterfalls. In the past, it used to be the main spot for numerous trade fairs, exhibitions and festivals at the beginning of the 20th Century. In the 1930's the government decided to reserve Parc du Cinquantenaire as a leisure park only. However, do not be discouraged, as there are so many things you can do in this park. It is seemingly so large you can really get lost. Apart from the picnic and enjoying one of the favourite Belgian activities which is drinking beer, you can participate in a running tournament, volleyball and speed-walking.

In addition to this, despite the fact that the biggest trade fairs do not occur anymore in Parc du Cinquantenaire, there are so many modern versions to spice up your visit. From film screenings, Spring and Summer apero afterworks (after work drinks events), ice cream and food stands and dance and music festivals. I have recently discovered that, believe it or not, every Friday you can eat pizza and dance salsa in Parc du Cinquantenaire. I know this combination sounds strange, but believe me it works! Obviosuly, the spotlight is on the dance part. You will see so many people, enthusiastically practicing their dance moves, that it will definitely make you want to join them.

These are some great reasons to spend some time at Parc du Cinquantenaire in Brussels and spice up your Spring visit. Stay tuned for more green spots of Brussels revealed!