Bois de la Cambre | Brussels

Bois de la Cambre is a large urban public park located in Brussels, Belgium, situated at the southern terminus of Avenue Louise. It serves as the primary "green lung" of the city and acts as an entry point to the larger Sonian Forest.

Visual Characteristics

The park spans 123 hectares and is designed in the English landscape style, featuring irregular clusters of trees, winding paths, and vast undulating lawns. Its central feature is an artificial lake containing the Île de Robinson (Robinson Island). The terrain varies from manicured picnic areas to dense woodland sections composed mainly of beech and oak trees.

Location & Access Logistics

Location: Southern Brussels, bordering the municipalities of Ixelles, Uccle, and Brussels-City.

Transport:

Tram: Lines 7, 8, and 93 stop at "Legrand" or "Cambre-Étoile" at the northern entrance.

Bus: Lines 38 and 136 serve the park’s perimeter.

Traffic Policy: Several internal roads are closed to motor vehicles on weekends and public holidays to create a pedestrian-safe zone.

Access: Open 24/7 with no entry fee.

Historical Origin

The park was created in 1861 by landscape architect Edouard Keilig. It was carved out of a portion of the Sonian Forest to provide a recreational space for the expanding bourgeoisie of Brussels during the reign of Leopold II. It takes its name from the nearby Cambre Abbey (Abbaye de la Cambre).

Key Highlights & Activities

Chalet Robinson: A historic restaurant located on the lake's island. Access requires a short crossing on a manual electric ferry.

Le Flore: A popular outdoor bar and social venue located in the northern section.

Recreation: The park is the city's premier location for jogging, cycling, and rollerblading. Rowboats are available for rent on the lake during the spring and summer.

Events: It hosts the 24 Heures Vélo du Bois de la Cambre, a major annual cycling event organized by Belgian scouts.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Food & Beverage: Multiple kiosks and permanent restaurants are situated within the park boundaries.

Connectivity: Robust 4G/5G cellular coverage throughout.

Restrooms: Public facilities are located near the lake and major kiosks.

Playgrounds: Several dedicated areas for children are maintained near the residential borders of the park.

Best Time to Visit

Spring/Summer: Peak season for picnics and outdoor social gatherings.

Autumn: For viewing the foliage of the ancient beech trees.

Sunday Afternoon: When the car-free policy is in full effect, providing a quiet environment for walking and cycling.

Facts & Legends

Water Source: The central lake is fed by natural springs and serves as a habitat for various waterfowl and fish.

The "Pocket" Forest: Despite being an urban park, the density of the southern end often leads visitors to forget they are within the city limits.

Nearby Landmarks

Cambre Abbey – 0.4 km North.

Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) – 0.6 km East.

Sonian Forest (Forêt de Soignes) – Directly adjacent to the South.

Villa Empain – 0.3 km North.