**This spectacular woodland in the center of Belgium is also known as “The Blue Forest”. Its wonderful natural carpet of bluebells awaits you in the spring, but its natural beauty is sure to turn some heads in other seasons as well. **
If you are a fan of hiking, love to get lost in the beauty of nature or are just looking for a place to escape the chaos of the city, then the Hallerbos will surely win your heart! This 552 hectares forest is most likely one of the most Instagrammable places in all of Belgium—and how could it not be?
If you ask the locals, they’ll tell you that the best time to see the Hallerbos in its prime beauty is around mid-April. This is when the bluebells start blossoming and create that wonderful blue carpet that makes this place so special. But the bluebells are not the only thing that make the Hallerbos well-worth a visit. When the beech leaves also start blooming, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautiful mix of transparent bright green and violet blue of the forest.
Not Here Just for the Bluebells
Don’t get us wrong, we are not saying you should only visit this beautiful forest during the spring! A walk in the Hallerbos is always a good idea no matter the season. Get stunned by the variety of colours during the autumn or enjoy the peace and quiet during the winter. This little piece of heaven will always be a great getaway spot.
- See nature in all its beauty: not only spectacular oak, ash, pine, beech, giant sequoia and larch, here you will also have the chance to admire squirrels, foxes and almost 100 different species of birds!
- Kid-friendly! If your children get tired of walking, why not let them play in the numerous play zones around the forest? These are marked by specific signs, and here your kids will be able to build camps or even create a ropes course! Make sure to clean up after yourself once you are done.
- Want to get some exercise? There are several different marked trails you can follow in the Hallerbos. If you are curious to learn more, you will find more info about the paths on the official website of the forest. Whether for a walk, a hike or a bike ride, there is no better place to destress and take care of your mind and body!
- From April 14th, there are two marked Bluebell Walks in the woods. Find more information and the map here.
- Easy access: Who’d would expect to find such a different world just a 30 min drive from Brussels?
Tips and Tricks
- If you plan on visiting the Hallerbos to admire the bluebells, remember that these blossom in the Spring at different times every year! Make sure to check Hallerbos’ official website for more information about the blossoming.
- Feeling adventurous? Rent a blue-bike at Halle train station and bike all the way to the Hallerbos (4,9 km)
- If you get hungry during your walk, head to ‘t Kriekske or In de Rust op den Berg. These picturesque restaurants are right on the edge of the Hallerbos. (Closed Monday and Tuesday)
- Need a map? Grab (a free) one at the tourist office in Halle, Grand place 1 or download it for free!
Getting There
- By Car: near to parking spaces Hogebermweg and Achtdreven. You can find further direction details on their website
- By Bus: close to bus stop Vlasmarkt. Bus 114 stops here. On the weekends, bus 156 at bus stop Lembeek Congo also stops a 15 min walk away.
- By Train: free shuttle bus to Hallerbos available from Halle train station
24/7
All seasons; spring
Free
Open; national COVID guidelines apply
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