Attractions and Places To See around Hoeilaart - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hoeilaart include a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. This municipality in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant is situated near the extensive Sonian Forest. Visitors can explore sites reflecting the region's past prosperity, such as elegant castles and old tram stations. The area offers diverse landscapes, from dense forests to cultural sites, providing various points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Hoeilaart
- The most popular attractions is Château de La Hulpe, a castle that was built in 1842 on the model of the Loire castles. It is surrounded by lush gardens and is part of the exceptional heritage “Parks and Gardens in Walonia”.
- Another must-see spot is Grand Place (Grote Markt), Brussels, a historical site known for its magnificent architecture and baroque facades. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features the City Hall of Brussels and the Museum of the City of Brussels.
- Visitors also love Sonian Forest Path, a forest trail extending over 4,383 hectares. This "beech cathedral" has preserved an exceptional fauna and flora, offering a significant natural feature for walking routes around Hoeilaart.
- Hoeilaart is known for its historical sites, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from castles and churches to vast forests and arboretums.
- The attractions around Hoeilaart are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1100 upvotes and more than 1200 photos shared across 55 highlights.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Grand Place (Grote Markt), Brussels
Highlight • Historical Site
In 1998, the Grand Place, along with other architectural treasures, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to this beautiful square is an absolute must for any traveler to Brussels.
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Bois de la Cambre
Highlight • Forest
This hilly area offers some very picturesque viewpoints. On our bikes, we'll recall the existence of a velodrome, now defunct, inaugurated in 1893. It's worth noting that in 1906, with the advent of the automobile, the mayor restricted car and motorcycle traffic to only a portion of the road network. This usage is disputed to this day!
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Château de La Hulpe
Highlight • Castle
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Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Highlight • Monument
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Sonian Forest
Highlight • Forest
The forest has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age and has had various functions over the centuries, such as providing firewood and timber for the construction of houses and ships, and as a backdrop for hunting scenes. The current forest landscape with deciduous trees has its origins in the Austrian period (1714-1795).
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Popular around Hoeilaart
Tour around Brussels – Streek-GR Groene Gordel
Flanders' Finest Cycle Routes: routes to discover Flemish nature and heritage
Hiking in Flanders – between dunes, forest and the scenic Meuse
Treinstappers – from station to station in Flanders
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Hiking around Hoeilaart
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Cycling around Hoeilaart
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Tips from the Community
This tour goes for kilometers through the forest. In spring it is beautiful with the hyacinths and wood anemones. In summer nice and cool.
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I was pleasantly surprised here: a former road through the forest is now a paradise for cyclists and pedestrians. I can't imagine cars there.👍🙏😜🚴
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Beautiful but very busy. Good to know!
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Early in the morning to avoid the crowds
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Enjoying the Sonian Forest is easy from the various access gates. These access gates are located on the edge of the forest, are easily accessible and are therefore the ideal starting point to explore the forest. There are eight access gates. Information about this can be found at https://www.zonienwoud.be/praktisch/toegangspoorten/
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The Sonian Forest, also known as the Zoniënwoud, is a large forest area centrally located in Belgium, southeast of Brussels. It covers approximately 4,421 hectares and is best known for its old beech trees, some of which are over 200 years old. The forest has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age and has had various functions over the centuries, such as providing firewood and timber for the construction of houses and ships, and as a backdrop for hunting scenes. The current forest landscape with deciduous trees has its origins in the Austrian period (1714-1795).
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Always beautiful, spacious and varied forest
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Hoeilaart?
Hoeilaart and its surroundings offer a rich history. You can visit the elegant Kasteel-gemeentehuis (Castle-Town Hall), a prominent landmark reflecting Romantic-era architecture. The old Tramstation symbolizes the region's past prosperity, vital for grape transport. Further afield, the magnificent Grand Place (Grote Markt) in Brussels, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases stunning baroque architecture and houses the City Hall and the Museum of the City of Brussels.
Are there natural attractions or forests to visit near Hoeilaart?
Yes, Hoeilaart is nestled within or borders the extensive Zoniënwoud (Sonian Forest), a significant natural feature. This 'beech cathedral' spans over 4,383 hectares and is known for its exceptional flora and fauna. You can explore the Sonian Forest Path, which offers a preserved natural environment. Additionally, the Arboretum of Groenendaal within the forest allows you to discover around 400 different tree species.
What family-friendly activities are available around Hoeilaart?
Many attractions around Hoeilaart are suitable for families. The vast Sonian Forest offers numerous trails for walking and exploring nature. The Château de La Hulpe, with its beautiful park and gardens, is freely accessible and great for a family outing. The Bois de la Cambre, a large park in Brussels, also provides a green space for recreation.
Can I find cycling routes near Hoeilaart's attractions?
Absolutely. The area around Hoeilaart is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes, including those that take you through the Sonian Forest or past attractions like Château de La Hulpe. For detailed cycling options, explore the routes in the Cycling around Hoeilaart guide, which includes routes like the 'Sonian route' and loops around the Bois de la Cambre.
Are there any unique cultural landmarks in Hoeilaart?
Beyond the historical buildings, Hoeilaart features the imposing Sint-Clemenskerk (St. Clement's Church), known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and organ. The numerous Serristenvilla's (Grape Grower's Villas) throughout the town are also a unique testament to the region's past wealth from grape cultivation. Various artworks displayed in the town center connect present-day Hoeilaart with its heritage.
What is the best time to visit the natural areas around Hoeilaart?
The natural areas around Hoeilaart, especially the Sonian Forest, are beautiful year-round. However, for a truly spectacular experience, consider visiting in mid-April when the Hallerbos (Bluebell Forest), managed from Hoeilaart, transforms into a stunning purple carpet of wild hyacinths. This offers a unique seasonal highlight for walkers.
Are there hiking or running trails near the attractions?
Yes, the proximity to the Sonian Forest means there are abundant opportunities for hiking and running. The Sonian Forest Path is a prime example. For a range of running options, you can consult the Running Trails around Hoeilaart guide, which features routes like the 'Nature Run Sonian Forest' and various loops of moderate difficulty.
What can I learn about the Sonian Forest's ecosystem and history?
To delve deeper into the Sonian Forest, visit the Bosmuseum (Forest Museum). It offers insights into the forest's ecosystem, its inhabitants, principles of forest management, and its rich history. You can also find the few remaining structures of the once powerful Priory of Groenendaal within the forest, adding a historical layer to your natural exploration.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, some attractions around Hoeilaart offer accessibility. The Grand Place (Grote Markt) in Brussels and the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert are noted as wheelchair accessible. While the Château de La Hulpe itself is not accessible, its surrounding park and domain are generally accessible for visitors.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' to discover in the Hoeilaart area?
Beyond the main highlights, you might enjoy discovering the Royal Lodge (Koninklijke Loge), which is all that remains of the former Groenendaal racecourse and can be rented for events. The well-preserved Groenendaal Station showcases typical national station architectural style. Also, the Chapel of Welriekende is the largest chapel situated within the Sonian Forest, offering a peaceful and scenic spot.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Hoeilaart?
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. The magnificent architecture of sites like the Grand Place and the serene, lush gardens surrounding Château de La Hulpe are highly appreciated. The extensive Sonian Forest is loved for its 'beech cathedral' appearance, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature.
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Most popular attractions around Hoeilaart
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