The Promenade Verte is an incredible cycling route (also suitable for pedestrians) with a total length of 60 kilometers, winding through the Brussels region and showcasing the varied and enchanting landscapes of its municipalities. Inspired by the official guide to the Promenade Verte, we’ve put together a list of 7 wonderful spots to see along your ride.
The Royal Parks and the Atomium
Starting from the Heysel Plateau, take inthe Atomium, then walk around Laeken Park to the north until you reach the start of Van Praet Avenue. Look to your left at the magnificent Chinese Pavilion, while to your right, a huge pagoda clad entirely in red reaches for the clouds: this is the sublime Japanese Tower.
The Evere Mill
Walk along the park, cross the canal, and head north toward Schaerbeek, passing by its train station and the Bon Pasteur Park. Once in Evere, cross the town, taking a detour (off the route) onto W. Van Perck Street to photograph the pretty windmill and its museum. Follow Haecht Road and J-B Desmeth Street to rejoin the route at the Hoedemaekersfontein.
The castles and parks of the Woluwe
Head down to the entrance of Woluwe-St-Lambert along Avenue du Cimetière de Bruxelles and turn left toward M. Thiry. Take a look at the Hof Ter Musschen mill; a second mill (the Lindekemaele mill) awaits you at the entrance to Malou Park. Take the opportunity to admire the castle of the same name, a true gem with an English-style charm.
Cycle to Woluwe Park and take the alternate route via Boulevard du Souverain, which will allow you to ride alongside the ponds. Stop at the Rouge-Cloître Abbey and its gardens (including a botanical garden), then continue on through the Bergoje, Seny, and Ten Reuken parks. Cross the northeastern part of the Sonian Forest (we recommend a detour to Château Charles Albert) and head to the Boitsfort ponds.
The Sonian Forest and nature reserves
The Sonian Forest is a true gem of the Brussels region. With the Promenade Verte, cross the forest from east to west and treat yourself to a few detours as you explore its valleys, ponds, and wildlife (you might even spot a deer!).
Make your way to the Verrewinkel and Buysdelle woods. Then, admire the Kriekenput and Kinsendael nature reserves after passing the Engeland Plateau.
The Bempt Parks and the Canal
The section of the Promenade Verte between Calevoet and Anderlecht takes you through the Bempt parks (Keyenbempt and Bempt) via the pretty banks of the Geleystbeek and the Nekkersgat estate. If you’re with your family, stop for a ride on the Little Train of Forest. Head back up to the Aa Lock and follow the Brussels Canal downstream, turning right toward the Anderlecht Cemetery and the Erasme neighborhood.
Walk up through Pede Park and say hello to the ducks paddling in its ponds. To the north, enjoy the peace and quiet of the Bon Air and Moortebeek garden cities, where city and countryside meet. Cross Scheutbos Park and watch the cows grazing in front of the high-rises: the contrast is striking. Continue up to Wilder Wood.
Head up to the border between Berchem-Ste-Agathe and Jette, stopping at Rivieren Castle (off the route). Enter King Baudouin Park along the Ganshoren and Jette marshes. Then, head east toward Prince Leopold Square. Park your bike for a moment at the Florist’s Gardens: their peaceful setting offers a magnificent view of the city skyline, the perfect way to enjoy the end of this ride.
Head back up to the Atomium, and congratulations! You’ve come full circle! You’ve just completed the Promenade Verte!
