The Hippodrome de Boitsfort is located on the fringe of the very popular parc Bois de la Cambre. It was built in 1875 for the Belgian Society in charge of horse competitions (so expect some nice art-nouveau touches). Today, horses don't race here anymore, but the place has become one the most pleasant areas in Brussels to have a run or a walk while benefiting from the surrounding nature. There is even a little golf circuit in the middle of the Hippodrome. In 2018, a brasserie opened in the building where the jockeys used to be weighed and is now listed as a historical monument.
Not living too far from it, I like to walk from my place to the Hippodrome, crossing Bois de la Cambre and relaxing on the Hippodrome’s stands which have been recently restored. This is a perfect spot to take advantage of the sunny days in Brussels.
During Covid-lockdown, it has also become a perfect place where friends would meet and share some coffee or tea brought from home or organise improvised birthday parties. I have also seen people reading a book while sunbathing or doing yoga on the upper part of the stands. Here you can meet people of all ages, starting from youngsters having a drink on the steps, families with children or elderly people having a walk.
This is a place in Brussels that combines historical heritage and nature!
Find your way with 295 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
At Crèmerie Saint-Guidon all the delicacies are personally selected: Brussels salted cheese and the famous ‘pottekees’; large eggs and delicious bread...
by
“The Wild Lab” in Brussels makes perfect vegetarian breakfasts for those lazy mornings…
by
"Chicago Café" is my favorite brunch spot in Brussels! They offer all-day breakfast & brunch and I recommend coming with friends - the portions are huge!
by
"Chez Richard" in Brussels is a truly local bar in a building from the 1890s! The terrace is always packed with good people. Try their 'fricandelle'...
by
"Gare du Midi market" is the famous Sunday morning market in Brussels. There is plenty of choice and prices will start dropping to almost zero at 13:30...
by
Dishes come with bold and rich flavors, which blend different cultures and cuisines. Our choices fell on some mezze, including a tasty paprika hummus...
by
Standing in front of what looked like an open garage, a busy wine bar like no other was waiting for me. Looking at it, I was mesmerized...
by
"Place Sainte-Catherine" is one of Brussels' most characteristic zones, and although tourists love it, locals love it even more for its versatility!
by
"Jardin des Sculptures" in Brussels is a little green oasis that forms a perfect combination of nature and arts. A true hidden gem...
by
"Madame Moustache" is a neo-cabaret in Brussels and my go-to place for drinking and dancing! I love its daytime terrace & and its variety of parties...
by
"Cement Truck" by Wim Delvoye is a unique piece that's a scaled-down model of a cement truck constructed in the Flemish Baroque style. An ode to opposites!
by
295 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 295 Insider Tips