Spring hike in the Houssière Wood

The start of the hike is at the edge of the woods. We are immediately immersed in the experience, walking on a slightly sloping path through the trees, where sunlight filters through at times.

After the first few kilometers, we descend onto a narrower and more flowery path. On the edge of it, we spot the first wild hyacinths in bloom. Gradually the landscape changes, the trees are younger and the light more intense: we arrive at the old gravel pit.

Bowl-shaped, this former sandpit is completely unexpected and unusual in the heart of the Houssière Woods. Visible tree roots are evident due to the erosion of the sand. The pale green leaves of the newly emerging trees contrast with the ochre sand on the ground. One can see some water spots and flowering gorse, which shows that nature is reclaiming a site that was exploited years ago.

After wandering through this old sand pit, we resume our hiking trail that leads us up to the plateau above. The path is quite steep and rather narrow. We step over and stoop between the few fallen tree trunks on it.

The reward at the summit is impressive! A magnificent blue carpet of wild hyacinths with a delicate fragrance welcomes us. This fairytale-like scene is a natural phenomenon that occurs every year between mid-April and mid-May in Belgium.

We have also dedicated an article to several locations where to stroll to admire the blooming hyacinths.

Continuing on the more rustic path, the hyacinths are more scattered but surprisingly present. A second carpet of hyacinths is encountered a little further along the route. A different, more open atmosphere, and the sun breaking through the trees, offering a play of light and shadow on the hyacinths.

The kilometers fly by unnoticed. In addition to the diverse landscapes, the road names are there to entertain us. We are now on the Mon Plaisir trail.

This one takes us on a loop around a pine and fern forest. An atmosphere, once again, unique since the beginning of our hike in the Bois de la Houssière. We retrace our steps along the former tram tracks where a health trail has been installed.

We venture onto a hidden, small path between two young trees. It's very steep, we're not sure about it, but it appears on our maps. We've embarked on a thrilling downhill descent, using the trees lining the path to prevent falls. It's ultimately more impressive than it seems!

We arrive in what could be a swamp in wet weather. It hasn't rained for a long time, and the paths are very dry. The path widens, and we're now in the arboretum. We wind our way between the various tree species planted here, which differ in size, colors, foliage, etc.

The hike is slowly coming to an end. We leave the arboretum through a beautiful, flowering meadow where several benches are situated to create a picnic area.

So, what do you think of the hike? Have you already done it or are you adding it to your list for next weekend? 😊