Sonian Forest, Protected forest at the southeastern edge of Brussels, Belgium.
The Sonian Forest spans 4,421 hectares across multiple municipalities, featuring ancient beech trees that form dense canopies throughout the woodland.
The forest originated as part of Silva Carbonaria during the Middle Ages, extending from Brussels to Hainaut before Napoleon ordered extensive oak removal for naval purposes.
The Bosmuseum Jan van Ruusbroec presents exhibitions about the forest vegetation, wildlife, and regional traditions connected to this natural environment.
Multiple entrances from Brussels provide access to walking paths, cycling routes, and horse riding trails that connect different sections of the protected area.
The forest contains trees over 200 years old and belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the Primeval Beech Forests of Europe.
Location: Brussels-Capital Region
Location: Flemish Region
Location: Wallonia
Part of: Silva Carbonaria
Website: https://zonienwald.be
GPS coordinates: 50.77060,4.44670
Latest update: May 27, 2025 17:31
Belgium preserves numerous historical sites and natural areas that remain outside the usual tourist circuits. The country contains medieval fortifications, castles from various periods, and protected areas that provide insight into its military and cultural past. The Hallerbos forest transforms into a blue carpet of Atlantic bluebells each spring. Fort Eben-Emael, once considered impregnable, documents 20th-century military architecture. The prehistoric flint mines of Spiennes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, testify to 6,000 years of mining history. These locations combine natural heritage with historical evidence and offer visitors the opportunity to discover lesser-known aspects of Belgium.
Brussels offers photographers a range of architectural subjects spanning several centuries. The medieval Grand-Place forms the historic center, while Art Nouveau buildings such as the Musée Horta and Maison Cauchie document the artistic flourishing around 1900. The Atomium, built for the 1958 World's Fair, represents postwar modernism and has become one of the city's most photographed landmarks. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert ranks among Europe's oldest covered shopping arcades and displays the elegant construction techniques of the 19th century. The Mont des Arts connects different neighborhoods through a terraced garden with views over the old town. Parc du Cinquantenaire features neoclassical triumphal arches, while the Porte de Hal remains the last surviving medieval city gate. The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Koekelberg shows Art Deco influences in its monumental architecture. Quieter spots include the Étangs d'Ixelles, two ponds in the neighborhood of the same name, or the Forêt de Soignes, an extensive beech forest on the city's edge. Avenue Louise connects residential and commercial districts through various architectural styles. Smaller passages such as Galerie Bortier or Passage du Nord complement the major arcades. Rue des Bouchers is known for its restaurant facades, while Rue de la Cigogne features historic townhouses. Photographically interesting details include the Art Nouveau metro station Pannenhuis or the modernist Bâtiment CBR. The Château de Laeken serves as a royal residence and opens to visitors only during the annual opening of the Serres Royales. Le Botanique, a former botanical garden, now houses a cultural center. Place Royale and the adjacent Palais Royal form the political heart of the city. Smaller squares like Place Flagey offer local scenes away from the main routes.
Brussels and the European Union
5.4 km
Villa Empain
6 km
Bois de la Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
6.3 km
Château of Val Duchesse
5.6 km
Charle-Albert Castle
3.6 km
Forests of Brabant National Park
1.4 km
Solvay Castle
4.2 km
Von Kármán Institute for Fluid Dynamics
4.6 km
CBR Building
4 km
Domaine Solvay
3.9 km
Stade des Trois Tilleuls
4.7 km
Tournay-Solvay Park
3.6 km
Wittouck Castle
5 km
Red Cloister
4.8 km
Delune House
6.1 km
Château Sainte-Anne
5.4 km
Auditoire Paul-Emile Janson
6.7 km
Château de Trois-Fontaines
4 km
Fondation Folon
4.3 km
Drève de Lorraine - Lorreinendreef
3.6 km
Experimental Garden Jean Massart
4.9 km
Château de la Solitude
3.8 km
Memorial 22/03
4 km
Church of St. Clement
5.2 km
Bergoje Park
5 km
Monument to the Foresters
3 km
Koninklijke Golf Club van België
5.9 km
Drève du Comte - Graafdreef
2.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes