A floral visit of Brussels, at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Just a few minutes from the bustling Grand Place, a paradise, where nature is preserved, awaits you, in Laeken, a small district on the outskirts of Brussels. There, spreads the opulent residence of the Belgian monarchy, a château as well as landscaped green spaces welcoming the Art Nouveau pavillions of a glass and steel complex built in 1873, at the request of King Léopold II.

Near Brussels, in the domain of Laeken

In keeping with a more than century old tradition, the monumental greenhouses of this "ideal palace", comprising several distinct galeries, open their doors to the general public 3 weeks per year. This will be an occasion to admire the botanical marvels of the exotic plant collections including certain rare highly valued varieties. They were added at the end of the 19th century.

Remarkably trimmed, the boxwood surrounding the main dome testify to the talent of the gardeners. © Palais Royal

In the winter garden, the main alley is bordered with floral plants from around the world. © Palais Royal

Under the patronage of the Royal family

Official ceremonies generally take place under the lovely cupola of the winter garden, while in the "Salle à Manger" and "Embarcadère" greenhouses, one discovers a combination of luxurious vegetation, statues, busts and priceless Chinese vases, brought back from far-flung travels to the Far East. During the inauguration of each season, the Royal family is never very far…

Right near the flowerbeds, the busts recall the history of this green paradise overlooking hilly landscapes. © Palais Royal

Under the dome with impressive proportions, the palm trees reach out towards the light. © Palais Royal