Province domain Huizingen

Provincial Domain Huizingen is one of the largest green spaces in the province of Flemish Brabant, spread across nearly 100 hectares in the municipality of Beersel, right on the edge of Brussels and bordering the Brabantse Wouden National Park. It blends history with recreation — a former noble estate surrounded in the 19th century by an expansive landscape park that remains a green retreat for locals and visitors alike.

How did this place begin?

The domain traces its origins to a historic water castle — a moated residence typical of Flemish estate architecture of earlier centuries. In the 19th century, an extensive English-style landscape park was laid out around the building, complete with avenues, ponds and carefully arranged plantings. The castle of Huizingen, along with the later Bloemendael alpine garden, is now protected as a heritage monument.

What makes the Bloemendael garden special?

In 1958, the alpine garden Bloemendael was added to the domain — a rockery bringing together more than 1,200 species of rock plants and flowers. It has become one of the estate's most recognizable attractions, admired by plant enthusiasts for the richness of its plantings arranged among stone formations.

What green spaces does the park offer?

At the heart of the domain lies a 55-hectare arboretum, home to both deciduous trees and conifers, crossed by three marked walking trails. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the woodland, eventually reaching a pond where rowing boats can be rented — a popular family activity on warm days.

What is there for families with children?

Provincial Domain Huizingen is designed with visitors of all ages in mind. The grounds include playgrounds suited to different age groups, as well as a small animal park home to goats, sheep, rabbits, pheasants and parakeets. It's a favourite destination for full-day family outings that combine time in nature with animal encounters.

What sports and recreational facilities are available?

Beyond walking trails and animal enclosures, the domain also offers sports facilities and a mini-golf course, making it an appealing destination not only for a quiet stroll but also for a more active day out with friends or family.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Provincial Domain Huizingen located? In the municipality of Beersel, in the province of Flemish Brabant, close to Brussels and on the edge of the Brabantse Wouden National Park.

How large is the park? The domain covers around 99.8 hectares, of which 55 hectares make up the arboretum.

What can visitors see besides greenery? A historic moated castle, the Bloemendael alpine garden with over 1,200 rock plant species, and a small animal park.

Is it a good destination for a family trip? Yes — playgrounds, the animal park and a pond with rowing boats make it a popular choice for family outings.