Green oases in large cities

The Belgian capital occupies the 27th place. Its nature covers 23 percent of the city. As a city, Brussels boasts some pleasant parks. For example the Parc de Bruxelles or Warandepark, also known as the ‘Brussels Park’ or ‘Royal Park’. This was the first public park in Brussels and lies between the Federal Parliament and the Royal Palace.

An offshoot of the Sonian Forest is the Bois de la Cambre. These woods cover 124 hectares and run all the way into Brussels. When the woodland park was formed, the natural origins of the wood were maintained, creating a lovely combination of trees, open grassland and a large pond. There is even a small island. The Bois de la Cambre is the best park for some walking, cycling or jogging. It is also home to 16 different species of bat and deer which originated in the Sonian Forest.

Antwerp claims 34th place with green covering 19.2 percent of the city. The City Park is found along the Rubenslei in the city centre. This park was designed in English style at the end of the 19th century and reflects the city's great diversity. It is a relaxing place which is perfect for boys and girls who love sunbathing and skating, as well as somewhere for seniors to stroll.

Antwerp has many allotments. These allow city folk to grow their own vegetables or just enjoy a little nature. You can also do some ‘communal gardening’. This concept involves the residents working together to look after a large garden. This communal project allows the locals to get to know each other better and enjoy a large piece of nature right in the middle of their city.

Antwerp and Brussels certainly deserved their places in the list. According to Travelbird the greenest place of all is Prague, which boasts no less than 56.7 percent nature in the city. Belgian cities are therefore well on the way!

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