Royal Gardens: Plantentuin Meise

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Just north of Brussels, Plantentuin Meise unfolds across 92 hectares of breathtaking landscape, surrounding the elegant Bouchout Castle. The castle once served as the secluded residence of Princess Charlotte of Belgium, later Empress of Mexico, sister-in-law of Sisi and sister to King Leopold II .


But Plantentuin Meise is not only a place of royal memory. It is also a living archive of botanical science. One of the garden’s remarkable achievements was the relocation of the Balat Greenhouse in the 1930s. Originally designed by royal architect Alphonse Balat, mentor to the great Victor Horta, the structure once stood near the Royal Palace in Brussels. Its careful reconstruction in Meise stands as a tribute to Belgium’s botanical heritage and architectural legacy.

The Greenhouse

Alphonse Balat

Today, the garden is home to over 18,000 plant species, an extensive herbarium with more than 4 million specimens, and the spectacular Plant Palace, where 13 interconnected glasshouses allow visitors to explore a variety of climates and plant ecosystems from around the world.



Recognized for its sustainability efforts and awarded the Green Key label, Plantentuin Meise continues to lead in scientific research, conservation, and ecological innovation—all while offering visitors a peaceful and inspiring experience in royal surroundings.



In a later blogpost, I'll tell more about the Castle of Bouchout. 

Me in the Plantentein Meise

I visited The Plantentuin Meise in 2024 with a colleague/friend. We loved it both very much. In the garden there are a few places to have a coffee and a lunch as well, which were good. Kawa coffeebar is certainly to recommend. 

More about the Plantentuin Meise on this link. 



Source pictures:
Empress Carlota of Mexico and Alphonse Balat: Wikipedia
Pictures from the Plantentein Meise: own pictures taken in 2024


Location: Meise, Belgium

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