Maria Hendrikapark

Locals call it ‘t Bosje, the little wood. Maria Hendrikapark is Ostend’s largest park, about 37 hectares, laid out between 1888 and 1892 at the urging of King Leopold II. A renovation completed in 2006 banned cars and added more woodland, and today it is a peaceful place for walkers, runners and cyclists.

The park is built around two lakes, the Spiegelmeer and the Konijnenvijver. In the Spiegelmeer stands Johan Tahon’s eight-metre bronze sculpture ZON Anima/Animus. A 5.2-kilometre jogging route loops through the park, mostly on unpaved paths, and a tree trail introduces 21 species. The Gezinsplein playground is one of the busiest in the city.

On the lake, Het Koninginnehof rents out boats and runs an adventure minigolf in season. The park is free, a short walk south of the station and a good place to escape the summer crowds on the promenade.