Park

# 🌲 Coo Escape: Ardennes Forest Hike & Waterfall Views **Trade the city for forests, fresh air, and panoramic Ardennes landscapes.** Join Sunday Vacations for a scenic Sunday hiking experience around Coo and Trois-Ponts — featuring forest trails, elevated viewpoints, riverside sections, and the famous Coo waterfalls. Designed for international professionals, expats, locals, and solo joiners, this experience combines movement, nature, and meaningful social connection in one of Belgium’s most beautiful regions. *** ## Experience Overview This curated Ardennes loop hike begins from **Trois-Ponts railway station** and takes us through scenic forest trails, panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Amblève Valley, and the iconic surroundings of Coo. Expect a relaxed but active Sunday with a welcoming international group atmosphere, social picnic breaks, and plenty of opportunities to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature. People increasingly join outdoor community experiences not just for the activity itself, but for the sense of connection and belonging they create. *** ## Event Type 🌿 **Curated Experience** *** ## Highlights * Scenic Ardennes forest hike * Great viewpoints over the Coo region * Discover the famous Coo waterfalls * Beautiful riverside and woodland trails * Relaxed international community atmosphere * Solo joiners welcome * Ideal Sunday nature reset * Train-accessible from Brussels *** ## Plan / Itinerary **08:45** – Meet at Starbucks Coffee, Brussels Central Station **09:01** – Train departure from Brussels Central **11:05** – Start of the hike from Trois-Ponts railway station **13:15** – Picnic & social break with scenic views **14:00** – Continue panoramic forest circuit toward Coo **16:30** – Optional stop near Coo waterfalls **17:05** – Train back toward Brussels **18:55** – Estimated arrival in Brussels *Schedule may slightly adapt depending on group pace and weather conditions.* *** ## Meeting Point 📍 Starbucks Coffee – Brussels Central Station Please arrive on time so the group can depart together. *** ## Hike Information 🥾 Distance: Approximately 16 km ⛰ Difficulty: Moderate with some elevation 🔄 Route Type: Loop Circuit 📍 Region: Coo & Trois-Ponts, Belgian Ardennes *** ## Price / Contribution **Community contribution:** €5 for non members and Explorer members Includes: * Event organisation * Group coordination * Guided community hiking experience Not included: * Train tickets * Food & drinks * Personal expenses Participants purchase transportation independently unless otherwise specified. **VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.** *** ## Membership ### Sunday Vacations Memberships * **Explorer** – €5/year * **Voyager** – €50/year * **Ambassador** – €150/year Members receive access to discounts, priority registrations, and selected community perks throughout the year. *** ## Who This Is For Perfect for: * Expats and international professionals * Solo joiners * Nature lovers * People looking for meaningful social experiences * Beginner to intermediate hikers * Anyone wanting a refreshing Sunday outside Brussels Research consistently shows that expats highly value experiences that support social connection, quality of life, and community belonging. *** ## What to Bring * Hiking shoes with good grip * Water bottle * Packed lunch or snacks * Rain jacket / weather layers * Small backpack * Positive energy *** ## Important Notes * Some trails may be muddy or slippery depending on weather conditions. * This is a community-oriented hiking experience, not a competitive sports activity. * The route may be adjusted slightly depending on weather or trail conditions. * Please ensure you are comfortable walking for several hours with breaks. Nature-focused and wellbeing-oriented travel experiences continue to grow as people increasingly seek restorative and intentional ways to spend their weekends. *** ## Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser facilitating social and cultural experiences and does not operate as a licensed travel agency. Transportation and all third-party services are independently provided by external operators and remain the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise. Participants join voluntarily and are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit for the activity. *** ## Call to Action 🌿 Ready for a proper Sunday escape? Join us for forests, waterfalls, panoramic Ardennes views, and good company — all just a train ride away from Brussels. Spots are limited to maintain a relaxed and social group atmosphere.

Dear beautiful people, This is going to be just a short walk in a very accessible park next to the Berchem station. Join us to move a bit and have a good chat. [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084) **Whatsapp group**: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ) (only for members who have attended at least one event or after contacting the organizer) General information: *We wait for 5 minutes after the starting time if no one has announced they will be late. - If someone has informed us they will be late, we wait up to 15 minutes after the starting time. *The location of the group is shared in the WhatsApp group for approximately 45-50 minutes after the starting time for those arriving more than 15 minutes late. - To ensure everyone feels comfortable, and since some walking paths may not be dog-friendly, we kindly ask that you do not bring dogs or other pets. *Walks may be canceled due to forecasted heavy rain or temperatures above 30°C or below 5°C. A final decision will be made by 10 AM on the day of the walk. NOTE; The weather may be rainy little bit so please bring your raincoat and umbrella and of course your positive energy and smile 😊

May roses started blooming so we will do our 11 km loop hike around the Coloma International Rose Garden this Sunday 🌹 Our meeting point is the Gaasbeek Ice cream Bar parking lot 🅿️ in Lennik. After the hike we can either have lunch in that same bar or just a drink or an ice cream 😉 🍦 See you on Sunday! Sandra 0497/243455

* 42km loop from Parc du Cinquantenaire to [Parc de Tervuren](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rc6PPwXwFGhUfprTA) and return through the forest. * Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\. * Estimated moving time 2h45 not including lunch and some brief stops. * Lunch at the halfway point in Tervuren—bring your own. * Meet at [Guingette Maurice](https://www.google.com/search?num=10&sca_esv=c9874bb074d0c29e&biw=2048&bih=1022&sxsrf=ANbL-n7VfOmjMKdEleL4ozbIswY-bStEPw:1777023676638&q=Guingette+Maurice&si=AL3DRZGNtcdgKOqVhotcr-UG2kkYpwR2WO4qu3O00NmpwBmLnWGlJ-sJ67ZY5GMMMbeMY-1kVZqsmva8UgiBKmBXfuRGV7y4itqLk5c6f-bOxJRrBHBdGct3W4jSxNn4GyEwXFP3l5Pl&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiDpYOImYaUAxVDTqQEHXotOi0Q_coHegQIPRAB) in Parc du Cinquantenaire. * View the route or download the GPX from [here](https://loc.wiki/t/263938562?wa=sc). * If bad weather is forecast this will be cancelled or rescheduled so check this event page before start time. * More general information on the [About](https://www.meetup.com/brussels-cycling-group/) page. * Tel: 04 86 40 6816

For more informations about all my classes, events, workshops and retreats https://www.thehappybody.be/contact \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🇬🇧 This event is also open to English speakers – explanations will be given in both French and English \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📅 Date : 17 May @ 11.00 ( actual departure 11.15 - no waiting after that) 📍 Départ : Rue Scheutbosch corner wit Bld Louis Mettewie ([lien](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JfpKbFfK67DV85qE9)) 📍 Arrivée : Place St Lambert 🚶‍♂️ Distance : ± 9 km - NOT A LOOP ⏰ Durée : environ 3-4h (marche + Qigong) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📲 Rejoignez aussi le groupe WhatsApp pour toutes les communications relatives a cet événement qui se feront via ce groupe. https://chat.whatsapp.com/LNUvsvoGrRyEkS4meiyrir?mode=gi_t My phone number: 0492 92 00 84 *** ### **🌱 Description** Rejoignez-nous pour la Sixième étape de notre grand cycle « Les 12 Balades Qigong – Promenade Verte de Bruxelles ». Chaque mois, nous parcourons un tronçon de la Promenade Verte en mêlant marche douce et pratique de Qigong en pleine nature. Au fil du parcours, nous ferons des pauses pour pratiquer des mouvements simples de Qigong, accessibles à tous, afin de : * harmoniser la respiration, * libérer les tensions accumulées, * s’ancrer profondément dans la nature environnante. *** ### **🎒 Infos pratiques** * Activité ouverte à tous niveaux, aucune expérience en Qigong requise. * Vêtements confortables et adaptés à la météo. * Chaussures de marche conseillées (terrain parfois TREShumide). * Apporter une gourde d’eau. *** ### **🔗 Réservations** 📲 Inscription obligatoire via Meetup pour garantir une bonne organisation. Nombre de places limitées afin de garder un cadre convivial et respectueux. *** ✨ A quiet, almost hidden corner where Brussels slows down. The Molenbeek Valley offers a mix of small paths, open spaces, and slightly wild areas — an ideal environment to step out of the usual rhythm and reconnect with your body. We begin with a gentle walk to reach a calm practice spot. During the session, you’ll be introduced to Qigong — a simple and effective practice rooted in traditional Chinese movement. It combines slow movements, breathing, and attention to help release tension, improve mobility, and calm the nervous system. The exercises are easy to follow, even if it’s your first time. The focus is not on performance, but on sensation: moving with awareness, breathing more freely, and allowing the body to reset. Depending on the session, we may explore sequences like **Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades)**, each with its own focus on circulation, joints, and overall energy. We close with a quiet return walk, giving the body time to integrate — often leaving with a clearer mind and a lighter, more grounded feeling.

**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** 🌳🏛️ We’ll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day. All levels are welcome 🤝 The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people. Bring your running shoes 👟, water 💧, and positive energy ⚡ . 📍 **Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels** **📞 Contact: 0471695419** Let’s enjoy a great run together! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️✨

The **20km of Brussels is fully booked**… and our Sunday Vacations group is already complete this year. 👉 But don’t worry — **you’ll be able to join us for 2027** **([https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026](https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026))** In the meantime, we’ve found the perfect alternative **👉 The 15km of Woluwe = ideal test run + great social experience** -- ### 🏃 Why Join This Event 💡 **If you're running the 20km Brussels:* This is the **perfect real-life test** before race da ✔ Test your pace ✔ Test your endurance ✔ Get into race conditions (crowd, water stations, atmosphere) 💡 **If you missed the 20km this year:** 👉 This is your moment to still enjoy a **race experience in Brussels** 👉 No pressure, just fun, movement, and good vibe -- ### 🌿 The Experience We’ll join the race **together as a group** ✔ Beautiful route through Woluwe & nature ✔ Mix of city + forest vibes ✔ Friendly, festive race atmospher ✔ Sunday Vacations energy + communit 👉 And of course: **optional drink after the race 🍻** -- ### 📅 Practical Inf *** Date: **Sunday 17 May 2026 ** *Start: **Stade Fallon (Woluwe-Saint-Lambert) *** Distance: **15 km ** *Level: **Intermediate (not beginner) -- ### 👥 Who Is This For *Those preparing for the **20km Brussels*** - Those who** missed it this year **but still want the vib *Runners who enjoy a **social + international group** - Solo participants welcome -- ### 🎟️ Registration ⚠️ You must register **individually via the official race website** 👉 We meet as a group, but each person handles their own race registration -- ### 💬 Sunday Vacations Participation ### ⚠️ Important This is a **community meetup**, not an organized race by Sunday Vacations All race logistics are handled by the official organizers -- ### 🔥 The Mindset This is not just a run 👉 It’s your **test before the big one** 👉 Or your **second chance to experience race day** Either way — we do it **together**

Join us on our weekly Sunday run to get your day started on the right foot. Whether you're a first-timer with the Brussels Runners Meetup or a familiar face, we can't wait to see you there! What to Expect: Distance : \~13 km. Pace : \~6 min/km. Mixed Terrain : A combination of dirt paths, forest trails, and possibly some road sections. Scenic Views : Enjoy the beauty of nature as we traverse diverse landscapes. Good Company : Run with like-minded individuals and make new friends. Post-Run Coffee : Optional post-run gathering for refreshments and camaraderie. **Bag Drop** : Yes Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. Questions and comments are welcome.

**Dreamcollector, c’est plus qu’un rassemblement : c’est un club de passionné·e·s.** Un lieu où l’on vient pour admirer, échanger, rencontrer… et repartir avec des souvenirs, des contacts et l’envie de revenir. ### Un rendez-vous régulier pour toutes et tous. Que vous veniez avec une ancienne, une sportive, une voiture de prestige — ou simplement par curiosité — vous êtes au bon endroit. Ici, on partage la même chose : **la passion des belles mécaniques** et l’ambiance qui va avec. ### Exposer, découvrir, rencontrer Dreamcollector, ce n’est pas “juste des voitures alignées”. Sur place, vous retrouvez aussi des **artisan·e·s et professionnel·le·s** de l’univers auto : pièces, accessoires, objets de collection, lifestyle, services… De quoi découvrir, apprendre, et dénicher de vraies pépites. ### Une ambiance conviviale (vraiment) Venez en solo, entre ami·e·s ou en famille : on prend le temps, on mange un morceau, on partage un verre, on discute… dans une atmosphère **simple, respectueuse et passionnée**. ### Les avantages membres En devenant membre, vous accédez à des avantages exclusifs : * la possibilité **d’exposer votre véhicule** lors de nos événements * des **réductions chez nos partenaires** * des invitations à des événements chez nos partenaires * des réductions sur des événements automobile comme Interclassics Brussels ### Rejoignez la communauté Dreamcollector Envie de vivre l’expérience de l’intérieur ? **Inscrivez-vous** et rejoignez un club qui fait bouger la scène auto, avec des événements pensés pour rassembler — sans prise de tête, avec passion.

Let's continue the tradition and play UNO, everybody is welcome :) If you're on the waitlist please check your messages, especially on Sunday. If people drop off last minute I tend to message people on the waitlist to see who can come. We'll be playing at the lobby of Radisson RED, Brussels. The address of the hotel is: Rue d'Idalie 35, 1050 Bruxelles My number is 0471 45 55 02. Feel free to call if you cannot solve a physics question, cannot find the place or simply need a hug. I have quickly written a set of rules on how we play. It is assumed that the reader has a basic concept of the game. *** Setup: * Each player starts with 6 or 7 cards each (depending on total number of players) * A card is shown in play in the middle of everyone, this is known as the top card. Goal: * The goal of the game for each player is to get rid of all cards in your hand Rules: * Whenever you go from two cards to one card, you have to say "UNO". * Each player takes his turn one by one, initially going in the clock-wise direction * A card may be played if it matches the same colour or same number or same type as the top card in play * The two black cards (Draw 4 and Wild) can be played regardless of the top card in play. * Interruption rule: You may interrupt the general flow of the game (clockwise or counter-clockwise) if you have the EXACT same card as the top card in play. If you manage to play the card prior to the person whose turn it's supposed to be, then the game continues on from you in the same direction it was previously. (Unless the reverse card was interrupted, then the direction changes). * Draw2 or Draw4 cards can be played in accordance to the interruption rule. The following person after the interrupt has to take the accumulated number of cards. If however, cards have already been drawn AND seen by the person who was supposed to take the cards, then only the remainder of cards has to be drawn. * Once someone has no cards remaining in his hand, play stops and we start counting points. Points: * Number cards have the face value as the number of points. i.e. number 6 is worth 6 points, number 0 is worth 0 points, number 4 is worth 4 points. * Skip, reverse and Draw2 are worth 20 points each * Wild and draw4 are worth 50 points each

What's up Friends! 👋 Let's meet at Le Pantin for another round of games and laughs. Games: 🎲 The pub has a fair collection of games. Feel free however to bring any of your own favorites. Food & Drinks: Le Pantin serves only drinks🍸🍺🍹, however you’re also welcome to bring your own snacks 🍟🍩🍿 to enjoy during the games. Ordering: 🤑 At least one drink is mandatory - this is how we support cool places like this! Timing: ⏱️ We kick off at 14:00, and you’re welcome to stay for as many games as you like. Joining later? Just let me know in advance in the chat so we don’t slow down the start 😊 🚦If you find yourself on the waiting list but you absolutely want to join or if you have any other question - feel free to contact me directly via the chat. 📢 Further details may be shared via the group chat or via DM 💬. Make sure to check your messages 👀 at least on the day before the event to avoid missing any mega important 🙄 announcements. 🐈‍⬛ The Friends Code: 👉 Which games are played will be agreed by the group 👉Depending on preferences and group size we usually split into several tables 👉 Got a favorite game? Bring it along or drop a suggestion in your reply 👉 Can't make it? Cancel on time so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot 👉 Don't show up (or show up at your own risk:) if you are on the waiting list. There may be no space for extra players and you risk to get disappointed. See you folks 😉

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a complete beginner, come and join us every **SUNDAY MORNING - from 11:00 to 12:15 - for Queer Yoga in Brussels :)** No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes (mats are provided) and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * This is an "open event" - for everyone, LGBTQ people and their friends no matter their **gender, age, race, sexual orientation or level of fitness / practice**. * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * Ring bell "MERCI WELLNESS" - third floor ! * ⏰ 11:00 to 12:15 (doors close at 10:55 as **class starts at 11:00 sharp** \- it is not possible to join late\)\. 💸 **Cost:** * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. **Come and this great group of Sunday Morning Yogis** \- to spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga\, from increased flexibility\, better posture\, a stronger body to a calmer mind\. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️✨ Edson P.S. Also, make sure to check out our new class **"Yoga for Men"** \- every Wednesday at 18:30 in the same location \- you can find the class list on our Meetup main page \!

Let's meet to write ! Schedule : 11:00 - 11:30 am : Presentation tour. Share briefly with the group about your project and your "goal of the day". 11:30 - 13:30 : Let's write ! 13:30 : Conclusion tour. Did you achieve your goal of the day ? See you soon !

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out. Optional lunch after! If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.