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Parks

Parc Tenbosch

4.7 · 2,077 reviews
A quiet and intimate urban sanctuary
Parc Tenbosch, Rue des Mélèzes 52, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium
Interesting facts
1

The park was originally established as a private dendrological collection by Jean-Louis Semet in 1865.

2

It contains over 200 species of trees and shrubs, many of which are labeled with botanical information.

3

The park was purchased by the Municipality of Ixelles in 1981 to prevent its development and preserve it as a public green space.

4

The park's design intentionally mimics the aesthetics of an English romantic garden.

5

It holds several 'remarkable trees' designated by the Brussels-Capital Region due to their size and age.

Overview

Parc Tenbosch is a former private 2-hectare arboretum transformed into a public botanical park in the Ixelles neighborhood. The park is characterized by its irregular layout, which retains the structure of its original 19th-century landscaping. It features a diverse collection of rare tree species, including giant sequoias and weeping beeches, rather than traditional floral displays. The grounds are enclosed by high walls, creating a secluded microclimate that buffers urban noise. A modern playground is situated within the park, catering to families. The park is managed by Brussels Environment and serves as a significant site for local biodiversity. It is located at the intersection of Rue des Mélèzes and Rue Washington.

Photo spot

The central lawn area looking toward the mature, large-canopy trees.

Insider tips

Bring a book, as the park is one of the quietest green spaces in the city center.

Visit during autumn to view the diverse color shifts of the non-native tree species.

Check the signage near the entrance to identify the various rare tree species currently in bloom.

What to avoid

Do not expect formal, symmetrical flower beds typical of French-style gardens; this park is intentionally naturalistic.

Good to know

The park operates on a seasonal closing schedule, shutting earlier in the winter months and remaining open later during the summer.

Etiquette

Dogs must be kept on a leash, and visitors are expected to stay on marked pathways to protect delicate roots.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in spring for optimal quiet and botanical viewing.
Address
Parc Tenbosch, Rue des Mélèzes 52, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium
50.820, 4.364
Get directions
Details
Botanical FocusArboretum with rare species
AmenitiesPlayground and park benches

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in spring for optimal quiet and botanical viewing..

The central lawn area looking toward the mature, large-canopy trees.

Close by you'll find Manneken Pis, Parc du Cinquantenaire, Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences.