🌿 Garden Escape to Abbaye de La Ramée & the Fruiticum

### Slow down, reconnect, and discover one of Wallonia’s hidden green gems.

Escape the city for a refreshing Sunday surrounded by nature, heritage, and great company.

Join Sunday Vacations for a relaxed day trip to the beautiful Abbaye de La Ramée in Jodoigne during the annual Rendez-vous aux Jardins weekend. Together, we'll explore a remarkable natural site, wander through the Fruiticum orchard with more than 250 fruit varieties, enjoy guided discoveries, and spend quality time with fellow internationals, expats, and locals.

Whether you're looking to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors, or simply take a break from your routine, this experience offers the perfect combination of nature, culture, and connection. People increasingly seek meaningful in-person experiences and outdoor activities that foster genuine social connections.

## 🌿 Experience Overview

Nestled in a preserved natural setting, Abbaye de La Ramée offers a unique opportunity to discover a living heritage landscape filled with rare fruit trees, woodland paths, gardens, and peaceful spaces for reflection.

During the "Rendez-vous aux Jardins" weekend, visitors can enjoy:

• Guided visits of the Fruiticum orchard
• Nature and biodiversity animations
• Garden and horticultural exhibitions
• Food truck and local refreshments
• Informal social moments with the Sunday Vacations community

## 🌍 Event Type

🌿 Curated Experience

## ✨ Highlights

✅ Explore the Fruiticum with 250+ fruit varieties

✅ Guided orchard visit with ASBL POMKO

✅ Meet fellow internationals, expats, and locals

✅ Enjoy a peaceful nature escape outside Brussels

✅ Discover biodiversity and garden design initiatives

✅ Food truck, local drinks, and relaxed community atmosphere

✅ Solo joiners warmly welcome

## 🗓️ Plan & Itinerary

### Saturday 6 June

12:15
Meet at Brussels-Schuman Station

12:52
IC train departure to Ottignies

13:15
Arrival in Ottignies

13:21
Local S8 train to Louvain-la-Neuve

13:28
Arrival in Louvain-la-Neuve

13:46
E1 bus towards Jodoigne

14:08
Arrival at Glimes Route de Glimes

14:08 – 14:31
Walk together to Abbaye de La Ramée

14:30 – 16:30
Explore the site, enjoy the gardens, guided visits, exhibitions, and social time

16:30
Group departure

16:48
E1 bus from Jauchelette Route de Jauchelette

17:16
Arrival Louvain-la-Neuve

17:30
S8 train to Ottignies

17:37
Arrival Ottignies

17:44
IC train to Brussels-Schuman

18:07
Arrival Brussels-Schuman

Participants are welcome to stay longer and return independently if preferred.

## 📍 Meeting Point

Primary Meeting Point

Brussels-Schuman Station

Meeting Time: 12:15

Alternative Meeting Point

L'Abbaye de La Ramée

Rue de l'Abbaye 19

1370 Jodoigne

Meeting directly at the venue is possible.

## 💰 Price / Contribution

### Sunday Vacations Community Contribution

• Explorer Members: €5
• Ambassador/Voyager members : Free

Transport tickets are not included.

Food, drinks, and any purchases on-site are paid individually.

VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.

## 🧭 Membership

Become part of the Sunday Vacations community:

### Explorer

Starting at €5/year

Access to community events and updates.

### Voyager

Starting at €50/year

Support the growth of curated experiences.

### Ambassador

Starting at €150/year

Help build a thriving international community.

## 👥 Who This Is For

This experience is perfect for:

• Nature lovers
• Garden enthusiasts
• Solo joiners
• Newcomers looking to meet people
• Anyone seeking a relaxed Sunday outdoors

No prior experience required.

## 🎒 What To Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Light rain jacket if needed
• Camera or phone
• Transport pass or ticket

Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.

## ⚠️ Important Notes

• No access to the interior buildings of the Abbey.
• Event takes place primarily outdoors.
• Programme may vary depending on weather and site organisers.
• Participants remain responsible for their own transport arrangements.
• Public transport times may be adjusted closer to the event date.

## ⚖️ Legal Disclaimer

Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts solely as a community organiser and facilitator.

Transport services, site access, guided visits, food services, exhibitions, and all other third-party services are provided under the responsibility of their respective operators.

Participation is voluntary and at your own responsibility.

Activities are organised by volunteers and covered under a legal volunteer insurance framework.

## 🌱 Ready to Join?

Take a break from the city, discover a hidden corner of Wallonia, and spend a Sunday connecting with nature and new people.

Reserve your spot and join us for a beautiful Garden Escape at Abbaye de La Ramée.