The Silsombos, on the border of Erps-Kwerps, Veltem-Beisem and Nederokkerzeel, is one of the most beautiful and mysterious natural areas in Flemish Brabant. Calcareous groundwater bubbles up there and feeds a mosaic of wet forests and marshy grasslands. In spring, thousands of forest orchids color the soil. The forest is part of the Green Valley between Leuven, Brussels and Mechelen. If you look carefully, you will find the statue of Mary of the Black Madam under an old oak tree. There is a chilling legend attached to it.
Practical
Nature walks (boots recommended!) and bicycle tours depart from the Groene Vallei visitor center on the edge of the forest.
Dogs on a leash. There is a loose-leash meadow at the Groene Vallei Visitor Center.
Play meadow next to the Green Valley Visitor Center. This play area is equipped with a picnic bench, a play hill with climbing logs and pools.