Three Cool Pools to Enjoy the Brussels Sun (And Two Bonus Getaways!)

What to do in Brussels during a heatwave?

With temperatures hitting 35°C this weekend, here’s the news you didn’t want to hear: the temporary outdoor pool FLOW permanently closed at the end of May 2025 (source: swim.brussels). But don’t despair! The capital still offers plenty of cool escapes. Here is our verified top 3.

Neder-Over-Heembeek: A Family-Friendly Pool with a Sun Deck

A large, modern pool, a vast sun deck facing the park, and well-sized changing rooms. Ideal for families and accessible by bus from the city centre.

• Municipality: City of Brussels (Neder-Over-Heembeek)
• Bonus: The grassy sun deck is perfect for relaxing after your swim.
• Official page: swim.brussels

Longchamp Pool: The Go-To Swimming Pool in Uccle

The go-to spot on the south side of the city. It features a garden-side sun deck, a family-friendly atmosphere, and impeccably clean water. Combine your visit with an ice cream in the nearby Bois de la Cambre.

• Municipality: Uccle
• Bonus: A leafy terrace, perfect for catching your breath between laps.
• Official page: swim.brussels

Calypso 2000: An Oasis of Calm in Watermael-Boitsfort

Less known and more peaceful. It offers a sun deck next to the Sonian Forest, a relaxed vibe, and a learner pool for children.

• Municipality: Watermael-Boitsfort
• Bonus: Its immediate proximity to the forest is perfect for combining a swim with a shaded walk.
• Official page: swim.brussels

Are there any beaches near Brussels? Yes, in Mechelen!

If you’re craving a real beach, the De Nekker lake is open every day until 31 August. It’s an 18-minute train ride from Brussels to Mechelen, followed by a short bus trip.

• Source: swim.brussels — De Nekker open daily until 31 August

An Outdoor Pool Near Brussels by Train: Halve Maan in Diest

Fancy a proper outdoor pool surrounded by nature? The Provinciaal Domein Halve Maan in Diest combines an openluchtzwembad (with diving boards and slides), a pond, woods, and play areas. Just 30 minutes from Brussels (direct train + a 15-minute walk from the station).

• July-August hours: daily, 11 am - 7 pm
• Online ticket required (no on-site sales): halvemaandiest.ticketing.vlaamsbrabant.be
• Official site: vlaamsbrabant.be — Halve Maan Diest

Practical Tips for Swimming During a Heatwave

• Go for a swim early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak UV rays (12 pm - 4 pm).
• Drink water before you feel thirsty. Bring a bottle for everyone and refill it at one of the mapped public water fountains.
• Check the daily opening hours directly on swim.brussels: visitor numbers soar during a heatwave, and some pools may introduce timed slots.
• SPF 50 sunscreen is a must, especially on unshaded sun decks.

A Final Word from Jeanneke Pis

“Three pools, three vibes, zero excuses for baking on your balcony. And if you really need a change of scenery, a train to Mechelen will take you right to the beach.”

🔗 Sources & Verifiable Links

• swim.brussels — Outdoor Pools in Brussels
• swim.brussels — Neder-Over-Heembeek
• swim.brussels — Longchamp (Uccle)
• swim.brussels — Calypso 2000 (Watermael-Boitsfort)
• swim.brussels — De Nekker (Mechelen)
• Provincie Vlaams-Brabant — Openluchtzwembad Halve Maan Diest
• Ticketing Halve Maan Diest

— Jeanneke Pis · Le Café du Manneken · #BXLove