How about stepping back in time? We are now at Hof ter Musschen Park. This semi-natural site spans 10 hectares. It has been classified for its high biological value since 1994.
Hof ter Musschen is more than just a park. It is a living museum of Brussels’ rural past. Imagine this area as part of a landscape. It once stretched over 50 hectares. That is now the site of the UCL.
The park includes marshes and wet meadows. You will also discover wooded areas. The Brabant farm and windmill complete the picture. These elements create a remarkable open-air museum. It shows what rural life around Brussels used to be like.
The Hof ter Musschen site has an interesting ownership. It is co-owned by the UCL and the municipality of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert. Dedicated volunteers from the Brussels East Environment Commission maintain it.
The windmill is a highlight. You can visit it by appointment. Contact the Municipal Museum for information. The phone number is 02.761.27.65.
The Hof ter Musschen farm has a long history. It likely dates back to the 15th century. The farm was rebuilt and expanded in 1741. The Draeck family lived here from 1840 to 1985. One family member even became mayor of Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe. The farm was classified in 1988. It underwent thorough restoration in 1993. Today, the farm hosts rooms for seminars and weddings.
Don’t miss the bread oven bakery. It sits about ten meters from the farm. It dates back to the 19th or even the 17th century. It was recently restored. It is now operational again. It is the last traditional bread oven still in use in the Brussels Region. The Environment Commission Brussels and surroundings organizes traditional bread-making events.
Hof ter Musschen is easily accessible. It is open to the public. You can visit anytime unless there are strong winds. You can reach Hof ter Musschen by bus. Take lines 42 or 79 and get off at Hof ter Musschen or Thiry-Woluwe.
The address is Boulevard de la Woluwe, 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert. For windmill information, call the Municipal Museum. In emergencies, contact the Montgomery police zone at 02 788 53 43.
Hof ter Musschen offers a peaceful escape. It connects you with nature and history. Take a stroll. Explore the meadows and woods. Imagine life on the farm centuries ago. This park is a treasure. It shows Brussels’ commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage.