Green and blue

The Botanical Garden or 'Botanique' is steeped in history. From the Middle Ages this green oasis was the garden of the former 'commanderij van Pitzemburg', order of knights. 

The 50-hectare-plus Vrijbroek Park is situated on the outskirts of the city. It is the ideal place to walk, kick a football around or read.

The Hof van Busleyden was the sixteenth-century home of Hiëronymus van Busleyden, a humanist and good friend of Erasmus of Rotterdam. 

Just a stone’s throw from Mechelen you’ll find yourself surrounded by scenic countryside. Each of the villages around the city-on-the Dyle has its own identity.

Take a stroll around the garden, seeking out nooks and crannies and keeping an eye open for the ingenious plan view of this recently constructed oasis.

You'll find fewer places more conducive to rest and relaxation than this former convent garden, a green oasis in the centre of Mechelen!

With the emphasis on silence, this little oasis right under St Rumbold’s Tower is just the place to switch off the technology and unwind.   

Eglegem Lake, a large expanse of water, also popularly known as 'de put' or 'the pit', came into being when the E19 motorway was constructed. 

These days you can enjoy a quiet stroll here across the large expanses of grass, past ancient trees, a highly-scented rose garden, a herb garden and other delightful nooks.

If it's a fun challenge you're after, then supping (stand-up paddle boarding) is for you! Paddle your way along the River Dyle on a paddle board and discover Mechelen from...