An Urban Oasis
As a landscape photographer, I’m always on the lookout for new places to explore the natural world, even in the most unforeseen corners. On a recent visit to Brussels, Belgium, to see my daughter, I learned about the Sonian Forest, a hidden treasure just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city. This unexpected discovery was within reach, and I couldn’t wait to visit.
A Sprawling Wilderness
Spanning a remarkable 10,920 acres, the Sonian Forest offers a network of trails and roads, providing the perfect setting for exploring. With my wife and daughter planning a shopping excursion in Brussels, I seized the opportunity to embark on a solo adventure, immersing myself in the tranquility of this oasis. The forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Unfortunately, I didn’t see any wildlife.
Ethereal Landscapes
Equipped with a backpack filled with water, snacks, and camera gear, I set off at first light, eager to capture the forest’s enchanting beauty. The air was clear and crisp at dawn, with temperatures in the upper 20s Fahrenheit. As I arrived at the forest’s outskirts, a mystical layer of fog hung in the air, creating an ethereal atmosphere. I imagine the best time to visit the Sonian Forest is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the forest is most picturesque.
A Serene Escape
My adventure started on a cobblestone road, gradually transforming into single-lane gravel and dirt trails. Navigation was a breeze thanks to my iPhone and the well-marked trail system. Despite the forest’s proximity to a major city, I encountered only a handful of fellow nature enthusiasts during my weekday escapade, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the serene tranquility of my surroundings. The peace and quiet were like a balm to my soul, a respite from the city’s constant buzz.
Autumn’s Muted Palette
As I ventured deeper into the forest, I was spellbound by the abundance of beech trees. Their leaves, already fallen in the late autumn season, created a breathtaking carpet of rust-hued foliage underfoot. The muted palette was a sight to behold, but it was the promise of the vibrant colors that would grace these woods during the peak of fall that truly captivated me. The beech trees stood tall and proud, their branches reaching for the sky, a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature.
A Photographer’s Playground
I walked over 10 miles throughout the day, savoring every moment and capturing many images showcasing the forest’s diverse landscapes. Each scene offered a unique opportunity for artistic expression. I experimented with different angles, lighting conditions, and compositions, aiming to capture the essence of the forest. From the soft, diffused light filtering through the morning fog to the stark, geometric patterns created by the towering beech trunks, I tried to convey the beauty and serenity of the Sonian Forest in my photos.
The Beauty of Simplicity
One of the highlights of my journey was the ability to focus my compositions on the graceful stands of beech trees, unencumbered by the dense undergrowth that often characterizes Pacific Northwest forests. I reveled in the freedom to frame the trees themselves as the primary subjects, whether as solitary giants or clusters forming abstract patterns of light and shadow.
Until Next Time
As the day drew to a close, I reluctantly returned to my daughter’s apartment, my heart heavy with the beauty I had witnessed. While I had explored only a tiny portion of the Sonian Forest, I left with a profound appreciation for its natural beauty and a burning desire to return and uncover the treasures and hidden gems that had eluded me on this first visit. The Sonian Forest had become more than just a destination; it had become a part of me. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and connection with nature that I hadn’t experienced in a long time.
The Sonian Forest, a true gem, offers a sanctuary of tranquility and inspiration steps away from the urban bustle. Its vast network of trails and roads and ever-changing landscapes make it a paradise for bikers, hikers, and photographers alike. Its ethereal beauty, from the mystical fog to the rust-hued foliage, reminds us that nature’s wonders can be found in the most unexpected places, waiting to be captured and cherished through the lens of those seeking them out. The forest also holds significant cultural and historical value, having been a source of inspiration for artists and writers throughout the centuries.
Further Readings:
Winter Morning at Abbaye de La Cambre, Belgium
My Wanderings at Parc du Rouge Cloitre, Brussels, Belgium
A Journey Through Time: Exploring the KU Leuven Library, Belgium
