When locals in Brussels speak of “La Cambre”, they usually refer to both the beautiful Cistercian Abbey close to the Ixelles ponds, the Abbaye de la Cambre, and the popular park nearby, the Bois de la Cambre. Fewer people might know that it is also the name of a prestigious visual arts school hosted within a portion of the ancient abbey’s buildings, thus its name La Cambre.
La Cambre School of Visual Arts was founded in 1927 by famous Belgian architect Henry Van de Velde, well known in architecture history because he also founded the Weimar School of Decorative Arts in 1908 and so laid the groundwork for the first Bauhaus. You can see several examples of his work in Brussels, one of which is the modernist Hôtel Van de Velde in Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, not far from the Abbey, that became an extension of the La Cambre School of Visual Arts in the 1980s. This is no coincidence! However, the Abbey’s buildings still host the School’s headquarters (at number 21) along with its library, cafeteria, some workshops, an auditorium for lectures and performances.
So if you happen to visit the historic site of the Abbaye de la Cambre, which I warmly recommend, you might meet groups of students strolling around its beautiful gardens or relaxing in its romantic courtyards. I love to have a rest on the garden’s benches and observe these lively students who are sometimes a real inspiration for me in terms of clothing style.
Find your way with 294 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Tatar was born with the intent to bring together a fine cuisine that mixes Mediterranean and Japanese tastes and mixology. Cocktails wise, I chose Osaka!
by
"Le Petit Train de Forest" in Brussels is a miniature railway run by passionate volunteers, complete w/ real 1:8 models of locomotives! It makes me happy.
by
From side dishes like dumplings to main dishes like Bibimbap and Bulgogi, all are served with freshly cooked vegetables, steamed rice & homemade sauces.
by
Do you just want everyday dishes that you would eat at home in Japan? Then "Tokidoki" in Brussels is what you are looking for. No sushi or noodles here!
by
"Certo" in Brussels is a tiny Italian restaurant on a corner just behind Place Saint Boniface and one of my favorites. Federico Mazzoni is the perfect host!
by
"Tero" in Brussels is so much more than a restaurant - it's a philosophy. It offers tasty, natural cuisine that follows the seasons!
by
"Rambo" in Brussels will make you feel like you're in LA. Loud music, an open kitchen and three amazing types of burgers!
by
"Les Petits Bouchons" is a typical Brussels bistro with a lot of wood, some mirrors and old-skool lighting. Zwanzers love it!
by
Ziever’Art in Anderlecht is a buzzing, volunteer-run hub mixing art, fun, and community. From concerts to kids’ workshops — there’s always something happening!
by
"Belga & Co" in Brussels is one of the city's great coffee places. Everything made in-house, friendly service, big window, no frills - just good coffee.
by
Even though it's a little out of the route for most, Glacier Zizi is definitely worth the detour! Ice cream, waffles, crêpes, smoothies... Your pick!
by
Come at any point of the day and have a fresh drink, a burger, salad or chill and let your kids/dogs run in the park while you chat with your friends.
by
294 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 294 Insider Tips