Spring is perhaps the very best season for wheelchair-friendly outings in Belgium. The temperature is pleasant, the paths are drier than in winter, the tourist crowds are still limited, and above all: nature is in full bloom. Blossoming orchards, the first spring flowers in the parks, and colourful gardens are waiting to be discovered. In this guide we gather our favourite wheelchair-friendly spring destinations in Belgium.
Plant Garden Meise: world-class flower splendour
The Plant Garden Meise is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe and is irresistible in spring. Tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms and magnolias dominate the landscape in March and April. The main paths are all paved and level, with room for two wheelchairs side by side. The large greenhouses are accessible through automatic doors. An accessible toilet is available in several places, and the cafeteria has a step-free terrace overlooking the garden.
Ghent Botanical Garden: a hidden oasis
The Ghent Botanical Garden is smaller than Meise but just as atmospheric, especially in spring. The university collection includes rare plants from every continent and reaches its peak in April and May. The garden is fully level and the paths are paved for wheelchair use.
Kalmthout Arboretum: flowers and tree splendour
The Kalmthout Arboretum is world famous for its magnolia collection and the splendid rhododendrons that bloom in May. The main paths are paved, and the arboretum has put work into accessibility in recent years with adapted benches, signage and an adapted reception. An accessible toilet is available.
Hof ter Saksen Beveren: a spring park in the landscape style
The Hof ter Saksen Beveren is particularly beautiful in spring with its extensive arboretum in full bloom. The main paths are paved and especially wheelchair-friendly. An accessible toilet is in the castle farm, which also serves as the visitor centre.
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Ghent: birds on spring migration
The Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve is a bird paradise and especially rich in migrating birds in spring. The accessible paths run through the reserve and offer viewing posts at adapted heights. An accessible toilet is available in the visitor centre.
City strolls in spring colours
Belgium has lovely historic towns where in spring you can fully enjoy the first spring sunshine on the squares and cafe terraces.
- Veurne: the Saint Nicholas Church Veurne and the Saint Walburga Church Veurne lie on the Grote Markt, with cafes such as Cafe De Vrede Veurne for a spring break.
- Mol: the De Merode Park Mol and the Stadspark Mol are gems in spring; combine with Cafe De Uitvinder Mol for lunch on the terrace.
- Tielt: the Europark Tielt puts on a beautiful flower display in spring; lunch at Restaurant Het Pakhuys Tielt.
- Eeklo: combine the Heritage Museum Eeklo with a terrace at Bistro Aan de Kreek Eeklo.
Brussels parks: an urban spring feel
Brussels comes to life in spring, and the urban parks are at their best then. The Brussels Park with its sharp lines and mature trees, the Cinquantenaire Park and the Josaphat Park Schaerbeek are all three fully wheelchair-accessible and especially colourful in spring.
The Ardennes in spring: woods coming back to life
The Ardennes are wonderful in May, with the first leaves on the trees and lily of the valley covering the forest floor. The Lac de Warche Malmedy and the Bois des Reves both have accessible paths.
Practical spring tips
- Check the flowering times. Magnolia collections are at their best in March-April, while rhododendrons bloom in May. Tulips reach their peak at the end of April. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Allow for showers. Spring in Belgium is changeable. A light raincoat and a cover for a power wheelchair are recommended. Some paths in nature reserves may stay wet after heavy rain.
- Book terraces in advance. The first sunny days draw everyone outside. Book terraces in tourist towns such as Bruges, Ghent or Brussels just to be sure.
- Combine parks with culture. Spring days are ideal for half a day in a park followed by an indoor activity such as a museum if the sun unexpectedly disappears behind a cloud.
- Use public transport where possible. Many Belgian railway stations are wheelchair-friendly, and the SNCB offers adapted assistance if requested at least 24 hours in advance.
Spring is an invitation to rediscover Belgium. With the right planning and information you can make a wheelchair-friendly day out that is both relaxing and surprising. Plan your day around a nature spot or a town park, line up an accessible lunch venue and enjoy the Belgian spring in all its splendour.