Things to do with a toddler or kids in Brussels: Have it your way at Kessel-Lo

Two seeking adventure
Two seeking adventure

Ages and ages ago, I took a walk with a friend and our new babies in Kessel-Lo. Taking in the monumental climbing areas and wood structures, I looked at my little bababoo and tried to imagine her big enough to take on some of these amazing adventures. Well today we set out to try our chops on the king of all local playsets.

Kessel-lo is situated in Leuven and about a 25 minute drive from Brussels. It is also possible to get there by bus. At Kessel-lo you really can have it your way. On the grounds you will find beautiful walking paths, lined with flowers, trees and ponds. If you care to venture out on the pond, there are some sweet little paddle boats on offer. Also a small animal park sporting donkeys, goats, and chickens. Yes, there is even a pool! But truly the highlight for us are the gorgeous and abundant play structures which cater to around ages 2 and up.

The play structures are mostly made out of wood and blend in with the forested surroundings. That makes it all the more fun as you get tired on one and then notice a castle or massive slide peaking out from behind the trees around the corner. There is so much to discover! It is a real paradise for the adventurous little one.

Though the pool was closed today, it looked really fun with a big slide and plenty of space for kids to play. We would return just for this as well, should the weather gods turn it up past 25 one of these days. 🙂

Not the adventure sort? There is plenty of space for a nice stroll and a picnic with lots of flowery fields, picnic tables and neat designed wooden seating.

So one of these warm early summer days, definitely check this place out! Though there are a number of parking areas, I recommend P1 which you can find by putting 203 Eénmeilaan, Leuven. Happy whatever you like. 🙂

King of the castle
King of the castle
My big girl now :)
My big girl now 🙂
Saving a seat for you
Saving a seat for you
Lean in
Lean in
Black diamond slide
Black diamond slide
Float
Float
A pool!
A pool!
Its the climb
Its the climb

First look: Sweet summer rain family session

Summer rain blog-2
Sweet summer kisses

Today I have a throwback for you. All the way back to the green and lush summer. It was a warm day, though a bit overcast with light showers. Classic Brussels. Set in one of my favorite parks, Parc de Tervuren which was once the hunting lodge (aka stunning side castle) of the Duke of Brabant.  Here you will find fishing and duck ponds, long tree lined lanes and the soon-to-reopen Royal Museum for Central Africa.

On this particular day, I had the pleasure to work with a lovely British family including little girls Seren and Fion. One thing that I love about working with kids is how much fun you have just messing around! Dancing, running, playing with feathers. These girls were a blast and absolutely gorgous in their matching dresses and bows. What a lovely day and a sweet reminder that long summer days are just around the corner. Enjoy!

Birds of a feather
Birds of a feather
Bridges
Bridges
Flower follies
Flower follies
Flight
Flight
Play
Play
Whee!
Whee!