Fairytale trail in the Hal Woods (Hallerbos)

For the first time since the creation of this blog, I'm taking you to the Hal Woods in Flanders. In spring, a rare and exceptional phenomenon takes place, plunging those who enter into a fairytale world. What better way to savor the scent of hyacinths under the canopy than to slip on your runners.

Hal Wood

The Bois de Hal is a 535-hectare forest located southwest of Brussels. Along with the forêt de Soigne, the bois de Lauzelle, the bois d'Heverlee and others, it forms part of the ancient forêt charbonnière. The latter was one of the great forests of northern Europe, along with the Ardennes forest to the south, which it linked to the Tongeren area before the construction of the Bavay-Cologne Roman road.

Unfortunately, like all European forests, they have suffered from human evolution. The great primary forest has been broken up into multiple forest massifs, forests and woods. The Bois de Hal almost disappeared completely during the First World War. The German occupiers reduced it to almost nothing in the name of the war effort. Fortunately, very soon after the conflict, the authorities undertook a major restoration project between 1930 and 1950 to give it its current appearance.

Like the original Charbonnière forest, the Bois de Hal is predominantly deciduous. Here, it is more specifically a large beech forest with a high forest structure offering open space under the canopy.

In April and May, the beech trees are just beginning to put on their foliage. They let in the sun's rays, allowing the hyacinth to develop and offer an enchanting spectacle.

Fairytale Trail

And so, every year, for two weeks from mid-April to the very beginning of May, this wood becomes host to a fantastic spectacle of nature. A carpet of hyacinths adorns the wood in an unreal bluish blanket. This natural phenomenon is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. So why not go for a run? There are a number of trails in the woods, and you'll easily be able to enjoy a 1.5-hour outing. Grab your runnings and plunge into a fantastic world, let your mind wander and be inspired by the magic of the place:

In practice

The easiest way to get there is to enter Vlasmarktdreef in your GPS. This will take you straight to the heart of the woods, where parking is available.

As for the route, I don't have a specific one to suggest, as this is the kind of place where it's best to let yourself wander. Nevertheless, you'll find all the necessary information and a downloadable map on the website .

Before you go, check the state of flowering. Every day, the gardes champêtres make a video of the hyacinths. Don't hesitate to watch it before you leave.

Further information http://www.hallerbos.be