Ixelles Ponds
Bruxelles-Capitale: Région de
The Ixelles Ponds consist of two long, narrow freshwater ponds located in the Brussels municipality of Ixelles, Belgium. These ponds are remnants of the Maelbeek valley wetlands, preserved during a 19th-century drainage campaign. Stretching approximately 700 meters in length and about 50 meters in width, they lie parallel on a north-south axis, separated by a slender strip of land. Together with the surrounding park, the ponds form a green corridor that extends from the Sonian Forest deep into Brussels' urban center. The area is cherished by local residents, especially from the Belgian upper class, as a tranquil spot for leisure activities. Fishing is permitted on Wednesdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The ponds are bordered by notable landmarks such as the Church of the Holy Cross on the eastern shore of the northern pond. Despite occasional issues with water pollution by cyanobacteria in the 1990s, the ponds remain an important natural feature within the city, offering a rare aquatic habitat and a refreshing retreat amid urban life.
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Tip: Visit the Ixelles Ponds during spring and early summer for the best weather and vibrant natural scenery. Fishing is allowed on Wednesdays, Sundays, and public holidays, so plan accordingly if interested. While the ponds are freely accessible, consider exploring nearby cultural sites such as the Church of the Holy Cross. There are no entry fees, and the area is easily reachable by public transport. No advance tickets are needed for the ponds themselves.
Interesting facts
- •The Ixelles Ponds stretch approximately 700 meters in length and 50 meters in width, aligned north to south and separated by a narrow strip of land.
- •They are the remnants of wetlands from the Maelbeek valley that were mostly drained in the 19th century.
- •Fishing is officially allowed on Wednesdays, Sundays, and public holidays in the ponds.
- •The Church of the Holy Cross is located on the eastern shore of the northern pond.
- •The ponds form part of a green corridor connecting the Sonian Forest with central Brussels.
History
The Ixelles Ponds are remnants of the Maelbeek valley wetlands, which were largely drained in the 19th century as part of urban development efforts.
These two ponds were spared from the drainage campaign, preserving a natural aquatic habitat within Brussels.
Over time, the ponds became a favored recreational area, especially among the local upper class.
In the late 1990s, the ponds experienced water pollution caused by cyanobacteria, reflecting environmental challenges faced by urban water bodies.
Despite this, the ponds have remained a significant green space and part of Brussels' natural heritage.
Contact
Phone: 02 513 89 40
