Jules Mairet, auteur sur Bruxelles Secrète

Culture Escapes Things to do

Just 30 minutes from Brussels, this “fairytale” neo-Gothic castle made of white sandstone is inspired by the palaces of the Loire Valley—a historic estate that hosts a unique music festival and a vibrant summer bar!

Nestled in Bonheiden, in the province of Antwerp, stands a silhouette straight out of a fairy tale: Zellaer Castle. This Neo-Gothic masterpiece, built on the foundations of a medieval fortress, captivates...

Food & drink Things to do Wellness & nature

Right in the heart of Brussels, this iconic venue reopens its doors within a 100-hectare wild sanctuary—a retro oasis offering concerts and creative workshops in a historic setting

Starting today, the yellow lanterns of La Guinguette Fabiola light up once again, marking the return of sunny days in Brussels. A true urban oasis in Jette, this retro-chic spot offers a rejuvenating esca...

Escapes Things to do

Voted “My Most Beautiful Village” in 2025, this gem of Hainaut hides a fantastical trail populated by strange creatures—a natural setting home to stately stables and centuries-old mills

Welcome to Ellezelles, a land of legends nestled in the heart of Wallonia. Recently crowned “My Most Beautiful Village” in 2025, this gem of Hainaut captivates with its historical heritage, from the stabl...

Secret Guides Things to do

“The capital’s biggest flea market!”: Right in the heart of Ixelles, this must-attend open-air event is coming back very soon—a massive 3-kilometer route featuring over 700 vendors

On Sunday, May 17, 2026, Brussels is set to experience one of its most vibrant moments of the year. The legendary Brocante des Puces takes over the Bailli-Châtelain neighborhood for a historic 43rd editio...

Culture Things to do

“A jewel in the Roman style”: In the heart of Brussels, this 1849 gem inspired by the Italian Renaissance has just regained its full splendor—a historic monument featuring a gold-leaf façade and a unique history!

In the heart of Brussels’ European Quarter, where official institutions dominate the skyline, an imperial silhouette has just regained its full splendor.Saint-Joseph Church, a Neo-Renaissance gem inspired...

Culture Escapes Things to do

Just 45 minutes from Brussels, this neoclassical gem has become one of Belgium’s most prestigious sites—a spectacular castle that conceals a 12th-century abbey within a 28-hectare estate

Between Brussels and Liège, the Château d’Hélécine stands with its neoclassical silhouette at the heart of a 28-hectare site, bearing witness to an extraordinary history. A former abbey founded in the 12t...

Escapes Things to do

Just 1.5 hours from Brussels, this hidden gem nestled among hills and valleys is one of Wallonia’s most beautiful villages—it offers spectacular views of the Molignée region and is home to a monumental 17th-century barn

Nestled in the meandering Molignée River, Sosoye reveals itself as one of the Condroz’s most beautiful gems. This village, where limestone houses stand in elegant rows, seems guarded by the protective sil...

Escapes Things to do

“A true journey through time”: Just 45 minutes from Brussels, this medieval stone colossus captivated Victor Hugo and today hides a secret vineyard—it is home to a spectacular 10,000-hectare estate!

South of Brussels, the majestic Villers Abbey stands as a stone testament that is both grand and romantic. Founded in 1146 by Cistercian monks, this monastic complex has weathered the ages and survived th...

Escapes Food & drink Things to do

“You forget you’re in the city”: Just a few minutes from the center of Brussels, this legendary chalet from 1877 nearly vanished in flames—a historic refuge in the heart of the capital’s green lung

In the heart of the Bois de la Cambre, Chalet Robinson stands as a timeless retreat, where the elegance of wood meets the magic of nature. Faithfully rebuilt after the trials of the past, this iconic esta...

Escapes Things to do

Just 30 minutes from Brussels, this little-known Flemish city is home to the Grand Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a timeless getaway, blending vintage cinema and untamed nature

Former capital of the Burgundian Netherlands under Margaret of Austria, the Flemish city of Mechelen boasts an extraordinary architectural heritage, dominated by the iconic St. Rumbold’s Tower and its 97...