Every spring, from mid-April to early May, the Hallerbos forest in Flemish Brabant is transformed into a spectacular carpet of purple bluebells, attracting thousands of visitors. As the 2025 Hyacinth Festival gets underway, local authorities are stepping up efforts to manage the crowds and protect the fragile forest ecosystem, which has suffered in recent years from trampling and social media-driven mass tourism.

The Hallerbos, also known as the “Blue Forest”, is a 552 hectare forest near the town of Halle, south of Brussels. It is world famous for its dense carpet of wild bluebells that bloom under towering beech trees. The phenomenon occurs when the tree canopy is not fully developed, allowing sunlight to reach the forest floor and trigger a brief but stunning flowering period. The vibrant purple and blue hues, combined with the play of light through the emerging green leaves, create a striking and ephemeral landscape that has become one of Belgium’s most iconic natural spectacles.

Free shuttle buses

To ensure that everyone can get to and from the forest safely – and to reduce car traffic – the city of Halle is once again providing free shuttle buses from Halle railway station to the forest on the weekends between 12 April and 1 May, as well as on Easter Monday (21 April) and Thursday (1 May). 

In addition to the free shuttle bus, free bicycles will be available for hire at Halle railway station between 9am and 5pm during the festival. The authorities strongly advise against driving into the forest as parking is limited, especially at weekends and on public holidays. There will be extra checks and fines for those who park illegally.

The Agency for Nature and Forests is also encouraging visitors to consider alternative locations to reduce the pressure on Hallerbos. “Other woodlands such as the Brakelbos, Muziekbos and Bos Ter Rijst also offer stunning bluebell displays,” agency director Goedele Van der Spiegel told VRT NWS.