When I want to get away from it all, I find Maria-Hendrika Park the ideal place to take a break from my everyday life. The park is very large, 37 hectares, and is located in the heart of the city, therefore it is very easily accessible. It has existed for a very long time, since 1892, and was built by King Leopold II. The Maria-Hendrika Park is also called ‘t Bosje by the inhabitants of the city of Ostend.
Maria-Hendrika Park has much to offer and has something for everyone. In the park you will find three ponds, namely the Queen’s Pond, the Mirror Lake and the Rabbit Pond. These ponds form the core and each pond also has its own character. My favorite pond is the Queen’s Pond because the emphasis on and around the pond is on relaxation. This large pond offers wonderful opportunities for all kinds of water recreation, such as fishing, rowing and pedal boating. The area around the pond is the central meeting place of the park. It is furnished with benches, picnic tables, sunbathing areas and so on. If you are a real flora and fauna lover you should be at the rabbit pond, this is the most natural place in the park. Here nature and nature development are given every chance. The area is also a real habitat for numerous animals that seek shelter here. What I find so special about this area are the raised paths that make the walk a real fairy tale.
Of course there is also a children’s play paradise, the renovated Family Square is the ideal place for your children to romp around. The little ones can go to the sheltered playground while the older children have their own adventurous play forest to entertain themselves. But of course, with a little imagination, they can play anywhere in ‘t Bosje. You will also find the restaurant Koninginnehof with delicious meals but you can also undertake numerous activities such as minigolf, go-cart, kayaking and so on.
| Address | Opening days & hours | Accessibility |
| Platanendreef 1-2 8400 Ostend | Always accessible | Car park available and it is a ten minute walk from the station |