Did you know that one of the largest botanical gardens in the world is hidden away near the Atomium? Opposite the medieval castle of Bouchout, the Meise Botanical Garden covers 92 hectares. It offers an incredible plant archipelago , unique in Belgium , where you can stroll among the plants on the water. A change of scenery is guaranteed!
A garden designed as an archipelago stretching over nearly 400 meters
Inaugurated in 2022, the island garden was designed by architects Gijs Van Vaerenbergh, creators of the fabulous transparent church in Borgloon. Landscape architect Arne Deruyter’s studio also participated in its design.
It consists of several islands with varying levels, connected by a walking path. There is also a pond and a Japanese garden. This 400-meter-long structure brings together no fewer than 400 different plant species, such as lotus and Australian beech trees. While the botanical garden itself provides a wonderful sense of escape, the feeling of walking on water, surrounded by nature, promises a true getaway.
© Meise Botanical Garden
The island is a peaceful and romantic refuge, in perfect harmony with the rest of the estate. The latter also houses a museum, a library and herbarium, greenhouses, an orangery, and a café called Kawa. Always very well maintained, the park is full of numerous perspectives and viewpoints for taking magnificent photos. It is also a good alternative to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, which are often too crowded and only open for a few weeks each year.
When is the best time to visit the Botanical Garden Island in Meise?
This haven of tranquility, located a stone’s throw from Brussels, can be enjoyed all year round. However, April and May are the best months to admire the magnolias, rhododendrons, and other bulbs in bloom. In the fall, the site is adorned with a different but equally striking palette of colors. If you are looking for peace and quiet, visit on a weekday morning. Finally, the garden is also home to the world’s largest titan arum, which blooms from time to time for only 48 to 72 hours. It is always an event not to be missed.
📍Address: Nieuwelaan 38, 1860 Meise, Belgium.
🕒 Opening hours: open every day, with seasonal opening hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in summer).
💰 Price: $18 for adults, $18 for seniors over 65, $18 for children up to 17 years old.