Despite being a vibrant European capital, Brussels does not offer a wide array of permanent outdoor swimming pools. However, there are still great alternatives for enjoying the sun and water outdoors. Here’s an overview of the options available in and around Brussels for cooling off during the hot summer days.

1. FLOW: the temporary outdoor pool in Anderlecht

FLOW is a temporary outdoor pool located along the canal in Anderlecht. It remains one of the best options for outdoor swimming in Brussels during summer. Open from July to mid-September each year, it offers Brussels residents the chance to swim in a 17 x 7-meter outdoor pool.

Key details:

  • Entry fees:
    • Adults: €2.00
    • Teens (12–17 years): €1.50
    • Children (6–11 years): €1.00
    • Free for children under 6.
  • Sessions are 45 minutes long, with varying opening hours from Monday to Sunday. Reservations can be made online or on-site.

Conveniently located near the Pont Pierre Marchant in Anderlecht, FLOW is easily accessible by public transport and is a must-visit for those who love outdoor swimming in Brussels.

FLOW POOL

Flow open-air pool in Anderlecht

2. Indoor pools with outdoor solariums in Brussels

While Brussels does not have many permanent outdoor pools, several indoor pools feature outdoor solariums, offering a chance to relax in the sun after swimming.

Here’s the list of Brussels swimming pools with outdoor solariums:

SPORTCITY POOL

Woluwe-Saint-Pierre

POSEIDON POOL

Woluwe-Saint-Lambert

NEDER POOL

Neder-Over-Hembeek

CALYPSO POOL

Watermael-Boitsfort

LONGCHAMP POOL

Uccle

These locations allow sunbathing close to aquatic facilities, making them excellent alternatives for those seeking a mix of swimming and relaxation in the sun.

Outdoor swimming options near Brussels

Outside Brussels, there are several options for outdoor swimming. However, it’s important to note that some popular options from the past are unfortunately no longer available. This is the case, for example, of the De Lammekes swimming pool in Grimbergen, closed in 2019, or the outdoor pool on the Huizingen domain, permanently closed in 2022.

3. Artificial Beach at Hofstade (Zemst)

Located between Brussels and Antwerp, the artificial beach at Hofstade offers a more natural outdoor experience. This expansive recreation area features a 650-meter-long artificial beach along a lake. Visitors can swim, enjoy pedal boats, and participate in beach games or relax in taverns.

Details:

  • Entry starts at €6 for children and adults.
  • Lifeguards are on duty during summer, ensuring safety for all visitors.

Hofstade is around 30 minutes by car from Brussels and makes for a perfect day trip for those seeking water fun in a natural setting.

HOFSTADE BEACH

Hofstade beach

4. Spray Park at Bois des Rêves

The Domaine Provincial du Bois des Rêves in Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve has transformed its former outdoor swimming pool into a Spray Park, an interactive water play area for children with 1,000 m² of open-air water play areas divided into two distinct zones for the little ones on the one hand, and the older ones on the other.
This change adds a new play dimension, with water jets and structures adapted for younger children.

The Spray Park replaces the classic outdoor pool, but remains a popular destination for families, thanks to its many other activities: forest walks, playground, fishing and even barbecues.
Admission to the aquatic area remains affordable, at €6 per adult or child.

Spray Park Bois de Rêves

Spray Park Bois de Rêves

5. Nausicaa Pool in Waterloo

Approximately 10 kilometers south of Brussels, the Nausicaa Pool in Waterloo is a great outdoor swimming option thanks to its retractable roof. During sunny summer days, the roof opens, transforming the space into an open-air pool.

Features:

  • Spacious outdoor area.
  • A fun slide.
  • Affordable entry fees.

This pool is a convenient choice for those looking to enjoy outdoor swimming close to Brussels.

NAUSICAA POOL

Waterloo

Conclusion

While Brussels still lacks permanent outdoor pools, there are several excellent alternatives for enjoying open-air swimming. Whether it’s the temporary FLOW pool in Anderlecht or indoor pools with outdoor solariums, residents can make the most of the summer without venturing far.

For those willing to explore nearby areas, options like Hofstade’s artificial beach, the Spray Park at Bois des Rêves, or Waterloo’s Nausicaa Pool provide varied aquatic experiences for all ages.

With these choices, there’s no shortage of ways to stay cool and refreshed this summer in Brussels and its surroundings.