In the heart of Belgium, a stone’s throw away from the bustling city life of Brussels, lies a forest from an ancient past.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through EVERYTHING you need to know about this forest and our trail experience, from the parking details to tips for discovering the trails.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Ancient: The Sonian Forest, just a short journey from Brussels, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts one of Europe’s largest and oldest beech forests, with some trees over 200 years old.
- Perfect for Hiking: With its network of well-maintained trails, the Sonian Forest is a hiker’s paradise.
Let’s get started!
The Sonian Forest
Protected
The Sonian Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, spans over 4,400 hectares of nature.
It is one of the LARGEST AND OLDEST beech forests in Europe, with some trees estimated to be over 200 (!) years old. The forest has been protected as a Natura 2000 site, meaning it is an important area for biodiversity and conservation.
Biodiversity
It’s not only highly recommended for hikers, but it also remains a hotspot for biodiversity, with a rich variety of flora and fauna. The forest plays a crucial role in climate regulation and water purification and provides a research venue for ecologists.
You can access the Sonian Forest from various points around Brussels, but one of the most popular entry points is at the Forêt de Soignes TRAIN STATION.
From there, you can follow signs for the hiking trail that leads through the heart of town to the nature forest. Parking is available at this station for those traveling by car OR at a secret spot that we’ll talk about further in the blog post.
One of the most unique features of the Sonian Forest is its BEECH CATHEDRAL, a section of it covered with old-growth trees that form a natural cathedral-like structure.
This area is popular among photographers and hikers, but also for people who love cycling and horse riding.
Check HERE for all the TOP things to do in the Sonian Forest!
FUN FACT: the Sonian Forest is home to animals such as DEER, foxes, badgers, and various bird species. The forest also has a high diversity of plant life, including over 500 (!) different types of mushrooms.
More information is available on the official website of the Sonian Forest.
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History of the Sonian Forest
The Sonian Forest also has HISTORICAL significance. It was once part of the ancient Silva Carbonaria (CHARCOAL FOREST), which Romans used for FUEL during their conquests. Later on, in the Middle Ages period, the forest was used for HUNTING by nobility and is even mentioned in famous tales such as ROBIN HOOD.
Over the centuries, as Europe’s landscape evolved, the Sonian Forest remained a green oasis, now cherished not only for its biological and historical significance but also as a green lung for the city of Brussels and a sanctuary for nature lovers.
The Sonian Forest During World War I
During World War I (WWI), the Sonian Forest became a vital spot, not just for its natural beauty or recreational value, but as a strategic location that played a role in the war efforts. The forest’s dense and expansive nature offered a concealed environment for soldiers, becoming a place where troops could regroup, strategize, and find solace away from the battlefields.
Additionally, the network of trails and hidden pathways within the forest provided ideal routes for the movement of people and supplies, essentially acting as HIDDEN VEINS that supported life.
There is also a memorial to the forest rangers. The monument, consisting of a dolmen surrounded by a circle of eleven standing stones, was erected in 1920 in memory of eleven forest rangers killed during the First World War. The Tervuren Arboretum can be considered a living monument since it is made up of numerous species of trees imported in the 19th century from various countries to be acclimatized in Belgium.
INTERESTING FACT: In 1815, on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo, English soldiers played a cricket match in this area, which has been called Pelouse des Anglais by the French ever since, although only a few are aware of its name. The British Ambassador in Belgium planted an oak tree and unveiled a bronze plaque to commemorate the 150th anniversary of this historical event in 1965.
Our Trail Experience
The Sentier des Sables, or Zavelvoetpad, is the best hike in the park! The trail is easily accessible via public transport by foot or car, with parking facilities nearby, and is divided into a loop that spans about 10,5 kilometers. We recommend parking at Parking Forêt de Soignes (Avenue de hippodrome), it’s a free parking site, right at the edge of the trail you need to take.
You can DOWNLOAD the trail HERE for free!
Perfect for a morning or an extended afternoon stroll, we can promise you serene views and a peaceful ambiance that can soothe any restless spirit.
Starting our walk, you’ll see nothing but huge beech trees, some of which are centuries old. The path is well-maintained, primarily flat, and not too challenging, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels.
As we hiked north through the trail in nature, you’ll hear the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. It was a perfect morning hike.
FUN FACT: The Sidi Boughaba Park, located in the northwest of the African nation, has been symbolically renamed in honor of the Sonian Forest, situated south of Brussels. This gesture underlines the solidarity between the countries of Morocco and Belgium in their united efforts to combat the climate crisis.
What to Know Before You Go
- Accessibility: The trail is easy to navigate and should be accessible year-round, though the beauty of the changing seasons offers unique views, with autumn being particularly spectacular.
- Facilities: There are no facilities directly on the trail, so make sure to pack water and perhaps a snack.
- Footwear: The path is generally easy, but good walking shoes are recommended as the terrain can get slippery, especially after rain.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a leash.
FUN FACT: Located in the old priory at the edge of the Sonian Forest, there is an arts center which explores the synergy between literature and fine arts with expositions of Belgian and international artists.
Where to Stay
Let’s take a closer look at our recommended spot for staying when you visit Brussels and the Sonian Forest.
To book all our accommodations when we travel, we always use Booking.com, they have the best prices and very flexible cancellation policies depending on the accommodation you choose.
We recommend staying at Hotel Dolce La Hulpe Brussels. It is a luxury hotel which offers an amazing escape. Just outside of the Sonian Forest. Located at the forest’s edge, this upscale hotel boasts luxurious rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and extensive gardens perfect for peaceful walks.
Conclusion
You must discover the Sentier des Sables in the Sonian Forest. It has been an amazing experience for us.
The forest offered us a quick escape from the city, a breath of fresh country air, and a moment to relax from our busy blog life.
So, if you find yourself in Belgium this summer and need a break from the cobblestoned streets and buildings of Brussels, the Sonian Forest and its trails await to enchant you with their woodland wonders.
FAQ
What is the famous forest in Brussels?
The Sonian Forest is 4,000 hectares long, preserved despite being crossed via highways or railways, and covers a large area. The urban green space contains a natural forest and an archaeological reserve.
What animals are in the Sonian Forest?
The Sonian Forest is home to a diverse range of animals, including deer, wild boar, foxes, and various species of birds. It is also known for its variety of trees such as oak, beech, and birch. There have also been sightings of rare species like the European pond turtle and the European otter in the forest.
