Looking for a quick family-friendly escape close to Brussels that’s both sustainable and full of adventure? For my birthday, my (very pregnant!) wife surprised me with a weekend at Lac de Genval—the perfect blend of slow travel, nature, and fun activities accessible for both big and small explorers.
Getting There the Green Way
- Train: Hop on the direct train from Brussels North or Brussels Luxemburg station for a stress-free, low-carbon journey.
- Bike: Feeling energetic? Cycle through the beautiful Sonian Forest for a scenic and eco-friendly route the kids will love. The trip takes between 1 and 1.5 hours from Brussels depending on where you start
What to Do at Lake Genval
- On the Water: Rent a kayak, pedalo, SUP, rowing boat, or sailing boat at the local yacht club. Or, relax on the club’s terrace in a comfy beach chair while the kids watch the action.
- Run or Stroll: Go for a run or a leisurely walk around the lake—perfect for burning off some energy in nature, spotting beautiful lakeside houses and classic cars driving around during the weekends.
- Picnic & Play: Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water. Bring a book or some games for the kids. (Swimming is officially forbidden, but I couldn’t resist a sneaky early morning dip!)
- Wellness & Tennis: Treat yourself at the spa or tennis courts at Martin’s Château du Lac—ideal for parents needing a little recharge. The spa also has a rooftop terrace where we read our books for hours.
Where to Eat
- Lakeside Terraces: Grab a table at one of the many restaurants with terraces overlooking the water—Lucy Chang is a favorite for families.
- Special Occasion: For something extra special, try L’amandier (my wife’s birthday treat for me!) for a 6-course haute-cuisine lunch or dinner.
- Don’t Miss: An ice cream from La Laguna, right by the lake—guaranteed to delight! The cue on summer days is worth the wait.
Where to Stay
- Lakeside Cabins: Book a cozy cabin or house along the water via Airbnb for a homey, kid-friendly stay.
- Boutique Comfort: L’amandier offers charming but pricy guest rooms.
- Hotel: We stayed at Martin’s Château du Lac (watch for deals including spa and tennis) for a touch of luxury and plenty of space for kids to roam.
Why We Loved It
This weekend reminded us that you don’t need to travel far to create lasting memories. Slow travel—by train or bike—makes the journey part of the adventure, and Lake Genval’s mix of nature, activities, and relaxation is perfect for families with young kids (and parents-to-be!).
Want tips or help booking your own sustainable lakeside escape? Drop me a message—I’m happy to share more!
Carbon Conscious Travel 