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Kortrijk's Green Gems: 5 Must-Visit Parks
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, the city of Kortrijk boasts an array of green spaces that offer both historical charm and natural beauty. With a rich history dating back to medieval times, Kortrijk’s parks are more than just places to relax—they are living testaments to the city’s cultural and historical heritage.
This article explores five must-visit parks in Kortrijk, each with its unique story and attractions. From the historical Koning Albertpark to the serene LOOF garden, these parks provide perfect escapes for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re interested in leisurely strolls, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the scenery, Kortrijk’s parks promise an enriching experience. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the green gems of Kortrijk.
5. Albertpark
Koning Albertpark is a spacious and historically rich park located along the banks of the Leie River in Kortrijk. This unique location offers visitors beautiful views along the Leie River.
It was originally named Leiepark when it was established in 1905 on a filled-in bend of the Leie River. It was later renamed Koning Albertpark.
You can admire the ‘Moeder Aarde’ art piece and ‘The Leie Monument’. The latter was officially inaugurated by the late King Baudouin in 1957. It is a site of annual commemorations in May by veterans and patriotic groups for soldiers who fell during WWII. It was restored in 2007.
The Groeningebrug connects both sides of the redesigned park. It features unique ‘shoe’ drawings on its supports.
You can find walking paths and rest areas, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation. Finally, for skateboarding enthusiasts, there is a skate bowl.
4. Gebroeders van Raemdonck
The Gebroeders Van Raemdonckpark is a large, diverse green space nestled between the residential areas of St. Elisabeth and 3 Hofsteden in Kortrijk.
The park is named after the Van Raemdonck brothers, Flemish soldiers who died during World War I. The park was created around 1959.
The park’s centerpiece is a large pond with a small peninsula that serves as a home for many breeding birds. It has a wide range of trees: oaks, birches, pines, and more rare species like honey locust, European Judas tree, and Japanese larch.
The pond’s reinforced banks and piers offer plenty of space for fishing enthusiasts or just to relax and look at the water peacefully.
The large grassy area makes it an ideal place for children to play, and you can find some outdoor fitness equipment.
3. Koningin Astridpark
Koningin Astridpark is a lovely old park on the edge of the city near Heule that many people enjoy.
The park was named after Queen Astrid, who visited Kortrijk on April 5, 1935, but the park is older than its name. City architect Victor Moulart designed the first part in 1906, and in 1931, a statue of Mayor August Reynaert was placed in the park’s French garden.
Two curved, covered walkways with American linden trees stand at the main entrances. These leafy tunnels immediately help you escape the urban hustle and relax!
There are well-maintained lawns that provide open spaces for relaxation and activities. You can also find a pond, adding to the beauty of the park, and a cute little bridge.
The park includes a playground, benches, and you can even find a minigolf course! This makes it the best park to spend a peaceful family day.
2. Kasteelpark ‘t Hooge en de Internationale Rozentuin
The rose garden is the star of Kasteelpark ‘t Hooge in Kortrijk, Belgium. It’s at the back of the park and is full of beautiful roses. It offers a colorful and fragrant experience, especially during the blooming season, which makes it very special.
The park’s layout follows the principles of formal garden design, which typically emphasizes symmetry and order. This style of garden was popular among European nobility and wealthy landowners from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
Kasteelpark ‘t Hooge also features a picturesque pond, adding a serene water element to the landscape, and a rose garden located at the rear of the property.
The castle complements the beauty of the surrounding park. Kasteelpark ‘t Hooge is ideal for leisurely walks along manicured paths, admiring the landscape design and horticultural displays.
1. LOOF: Het engels landschaps tuin
LOOF is a historical garden located behind the former hospital on Loofstraat in Kortrijk. This park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a taste of tranquility in the city center.
Key features include a large pond, gently sloping grassy areas perfect for relaxation, and a gloriette (small pavilion), adding architectural interest.
LOOF exemplifies the English landscape garden style, characterized by its natural-looking, romantic design.
The park’s rich history dates back to the second half of the 19th century when the Vercruysse family built an empire-style country house with an adjoining English landscape garden.
In 1985, the country house was demolished without a permit. Recognizing the park’s historical and cultural value, in 2003, the English landscape garden, including several typical garden elements such as the gloriette, was granted protected status.
LOOF represents a beautiful blend of history and nature, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century landscape design while providing a peaceful escape in modern-day Kortrijk. Though it’s worth noting that it’s currently part of a real estate development project.
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