Meise Botanic Garden, a historical landscape

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Bouchout Castle stands at the crossroads of centuries-old heritage and dazzling nature. Set in one of the world’s largest botanical gardens, the castle is surrounded by lush greenery and rich history. The Plant Palace takes you on a voyage through the desert, savannah, and tropical rainforest. Tip: Climb the castle's tower for a breathtaking panoramic view.

History and nature in harmony

At Bouchout Castle, stories of the past blend effortlessly with the splendour of the natural world. The castle whispers tales of its former residents and the estate's rich history. Step into the 12th-century keep, and it feels like you’ve travelled back to medieval times. The rooftop terrace offers sweeping views over the stunning surroundings. Meise Botanic Garden

What began as an English landscape garden has blossomed into one of the world’s great botanical treasures. Its living collection includes more than 8,000 plant species, and there are over 12,000 rare tropical and subtropical plants in the many greenhouses. Whether you're looking for stunning nature or family fun, you'll find it here. Kids can explore the adventure forest, go on a treasure hunt with King Amaryllo, or walk barefoot along the 'Amaze-Your-Feet-Path', reconnecting with nature.

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From fortress to fairytale castle

This remarkable site traces its origins back to around 1150 when, in the green outskirts of Brussels, a sturdy square keep was built as a defence tower. The walls are more than a metre thick. It evolved into a fully enclosed stronghold, eventually adorned with four round towers and an impressive moat. The castle was strategically located to defend the Duchy of Brabant from the County of Flanders and the lords of Grimbergen.

During its turbulent history over the centuries, it has been plundered, damaged, and rebuilt. However, this did not discourage those who called it home from turning it into something truly special. When King Leopold II of Belgium bought the castle, he gifted it to his sister, Charlotte. She was the widow of Maximilian of Austria, the Emperor of Mexico who was executed during a revolution. Charlotte made Bouchout Castle her home, transforming it into neo-gothic and neo-renaissance style. Some original features remain to this day, such as the woodwork in Charlotte’s favourite drawing room.

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Plan your visit

Meise Botanic Garden and Bouchout Castle
Nieuwelaan 38
1860 Meise

You can explore both the botanic garden and castle at your own pace or join a guided tour..

For practical info, opening times, accessibility, and more:

Meise Botanic Garden

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By bike from Brussels to Meise Botanical Garden

Hop on your bike and explore the green belt around Brussels. This route takes you along beautiful spots full of charm towards Bouchout Castle in Meise Botanical Garden. Perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Don't have your own bike? You can easily rent one at the starting point in Brussels from Provelo.

Route (35,6 km)

Nodes: 30-31-8-7-12-37-71-2-13-15-16-41-40-39-38-72-76-20-18-2-71-37-12-7-8-31-30
View the nodes map
Points of interest along the route to Meise Botanical Garden: Tour&Taxis, Laeken Park, Heysel, Meise Botanical Garden, MIRA, Grimbergen Basilica, Brussels-Scheldt Canal, Salangaan Bridge.