Hallerbos: Belgium’s blue forest

One of Belgium’s hidden treasures is a charming 5.5 square kilometre patch of forest called the Hallerbos. It derives much of its charm from the fabulous transformation it undertakes during spring as thousands of bluebells carpet the forest floor. In fact, it can look so surreal that there’s even a boredpanda article about its fairy-like character. Unfortunately this isn’t a place you’re just going to stumble across while travelling as it’s only accessible by car. But, it’s only 20 km south of Brussels and is as good a reason as any to try and befriend some Belgians and hitch a ride.

The forest is a remnant fragment of the once great Silva Carbonaria or “charcoal forest” – a dense old-growth forest of beech and oak that stretched across Belgium during the Late Iron Age. The area has its own nature management plan and a neat network of paths designed for relaxing weekend strolls. While not packed with wildlife, you may be lucky enough to spot a deer grazing amongst the spring blooms or find the aptly-named fire salamander hiding in the undergrowth. To find out when to catch the blooms at their most magnificent, check out the local website.

But now I think I’ll let some pictures do the talking:

Before and after: The forest’s transition into spring brings bright green buds to the beech trees and carpets the ground in bluebells. Image left: Donar Reiskoffer (wikicommons)

Numerous walking trails criss-cross the forest (walking map available for download here). Animals like the fire salamander (top right) and blooming plants like Garlic Mustard (bottom right) are just some of the small wonders the forest has to offer.

If you look carefully, you may be able to spot the elusive fire salamander in the moist undergrowth.

Typical of good forest management, decaying logs and branches are left lying beneath the trees. This encourages decomposition processes, allows for the growth of fungi, and provides micro-habitats for creatures like the fire salamander.

For a few more of my Hallerbos pictures, visit: http://bit.ly/jdesatge-Hallerbos