Parckfarm is the real green deal: some artists, eco-minded architects and motivated locals took initiative and rebuilt an old site near an abandoned train track creating a community driven park. This redevelopment happened years ago and despite constant rumors that the park, its animals, the bread/pizza-oven, the kitchen garden, etc. would have to go, it is still alive and kicking. The city of Brussels is now planning all kinds of new projects in the area, but in theory the park, although smaller than hoped for, will remain untouched.

Because the main part of the park lies beneath most surrounding streets, it’s an ideal hideaway from the usual city noise. A big slice of peace and quiet is not always guaranteed though, the people behind Parckfarm are an active community: in summer you might just stumble upon a lounge party, cooking classes or an open air yoga session, so checking out their website beforehand could be a good idea.

For the easiest access, take the entry right across metro Pannenhuis. The beating heart of the park is the farmhouse, where if you’re lucky you can score some vegetarian snacks, 300 metres to the southwest.