Best lakes around Grez-Doiceau offer a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This region, situated near the Sonian Forest, features diverse aquatic environments, from expansive lakes to smaller, ecologically significant ponds. Visitors can explore areas known for their historical architecture, lush green spaces, and varied wildlife. The landscape provides settings for outdoor activities and tranquil escapes.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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Definitely stop by Ernesto koffie (right at the roundabout Walensebaan and Smisstraat), a cozy little food truck right by the ponds. There are also cozy seating areas provided at the food truck itself. Delicious coffee and wonderful pastries. Ideal for a refueling stop. Super friendly service. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30
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In front of the park is a French garden with ponds, flower beds and statues, which extends to a series of ponds that receive their water from the Voer.
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Very nice place to have a drink at the end of a walk or to have a bite to eat!
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Lots of green, trees and water. Quiet for walking, cycling, picnicking.
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In the former hamlet of Goordaal, a water mill, the Moelene van Gordale, was built around 1293. This was one of the twelve ducal ban mills on the Voer between Tervuren and Leuven. In the medieval legal system, wind and water belonged to the owner of the fief, in this case the Duke of Brabant. The surrounding farmers were therefore obliged to grind their grain here and leave some of it behind. The dilapidated wooden mill was rebuilt in 1534 in brick and natural stone with a tiled roof instead of straw. Clay for the bricks was collected in the surrounding area. The name Spaans huis refers to the elongated facade stones, Spanish stone. In the 17th century, Archdukes Albrecht and Isabella had a long wall built around the Warande. The walls of the Spaans huis were also rebuilt. The current appearance, albeit without a mill, dates from that time. The mill remained in operation until the second half of the 18th century. For the 1897 World Exhibition, Leopold II had the ponds enlarged and trees planted. The picturesque mill house inspired artists and writers, such as Eleanor Smith with her novel The Spanish House. Source: https://www.randkrant.be/nl/news/2029/bouwwerk-het-spaans-huis-in-tervuren
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The name Spaans Huis is much more recent than the name Gordaalmolen or Gordaelmolen, as this building was originally called (and is still called). Go(o)rdaal was a medieval hamlet that belonged to the lords of Rotselaar for a while (fifteenth century). It thus became a neighbour of Warande. De Warande is still a name given to the park of Tervuren. The so-called Spaans huis was originally a watermill in Goordaal, a marshy hamlet because the name comes from goor dal where goor means marshy and we all know a valley. According to the information board on the building (see photos), it was built in the seventeenth century and served as a ducal ban mill. In short: people had to have their grain ground there? What is Spanish about it? The period in which the brick from which it was built was often used. Today the Goordaalmolen is located at the Goordaalvijver: https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/highlight/1776479
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The lakes in this region offer diverse natural beauty. For instance, the Ponds of Tervuren Park are known for their varied aquatic plant growth and serve as spawning grounds for fish and amphibians. The Pond of Pécrot is a significant natural attraction and part of the Natura 2000 network, recognized for its ecological importance and as a crucial refuge for water birds. Lake Genval is set within lush, green surroundings with an idyllic scenery.
Lake Genval offers a broad spectrum of recreational activities. You can rent kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), rowing boats, and sailing boats. There's also a scenic trail encircling the lake, perfect for leisurely walks or invigorating runs. Numerous restaurants with terraces overlook the lake, and guided tours are available to explore its history. The area also features wellness facilities like a spa and tennis courts.
Yes, several lakes in the area are suitable for families. Both the Ponds of Tervuren Park and Lake Genval are listed as family-friendly. Tervuren Park offers expansive green spaces for walking and picnicking, while Lake Genval provides water activities and lakeside trails that families can enjoy together.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. The Pond of Pécrot is a primary draw for fishing, with dedicated activities and events available throughout the season for both members and non-members. These often include fishing initiations, making it accessible for those new to the sport. The pond is populated with various fish species, including carp, crucian carp, pike, pikeperch, perch, and eels. You can find more information about fishing at Pécrot Pond on Visit Wallonia.
The lakes around Grez-Doiceau can be enjoyed throughout the year, but certain seasons offer unique experiences. Tervuren Park, with its ponds, is particularly stunning in autumn when the foliage changes color and in early spring as new leaves emerge. Generally, spring and summer are ideal for water activities and lakeside recreation, while the cooler months are great for tranquil walks and nature observation.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with cultural richness. Tervuren Park notably houses the Royal Museum for Central Africa, allowing visitors to combine outdoor recreation with cultural exploration. Lake Genval is surrounded by opulent Belle Époque villas, and guided tours are available to delve into its rich history and anecdotes. The Château du Lac, a luxurious five-star hotel, also adds to the historical charm.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. Tervuren Park has an extensive network of paths perfect for walking and jogging. You can find various hiking routes around Grez-Doiceau, including easy trails like the 'Pécrot Pond – Pécrot Railway Station loop from Florival' (7.4 km) or the 'Forest Trail With Stream Bed – Bonlez Wood loop from Chapelle du Chêneau' (5.4 km). For more options, explore the Hiking around Grez-Doiceau guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore the area. Tervuren Park's beautifully landscaped grounds offer great bike paths. For longer rides, you can find cycling routes such as the 'Ponds in Tervuren Park – Tervuren Park Ponds loop from Pécrot' (107.5 km) or the 'Lake in the Park van Tervuren – Ponds in Tervuren Park loop from Pécrot' (75.4 km). Check out the Cycling around Grez-Doiceau guide for more routes.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The serene environment of places like the Pond of Pécrot is valued for birdwatching and tranquility. Lake Genval is loved for its idyllic scenery, water activities, and charming lakeside restaurants. Tervuren Park is praised for its extensive green spaces, beautiful ponds, and the opportunity to combine nature with cultural exploration at the Royal Museum for Central Africa.
Yes, especially around Lake Genval, you'll find numerous restaurants with terraces overlooking the water, providing opportunities for culinary enjoyment. The luxurious Château du Lac, a five-star hotel, is also located there. While specific cafes and accommodation details for other lakes are not extensively listed, the general area of Grez-Doiceau and its surroundings offer various options for dining and lodging.
The Pond of Pécrot is unique due to its ecological importance as part of the Natura 2000 network. It's recognized as one of the most beautiful marshes in the Dyle Valley, serving as a crucial refuge and nesting ground for numerous water birds. Its rich fish diversity also makes it a prime location for fishing activities and initiations.


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