Lion's Mound travel guide

The iconic Lion's Mound, situated at Rte du Lion 1815, 1420 Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, stands as a must-visit landmark in Braine-l'Alleud. Its location within the vibrant Uccle offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Belgium.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Braine-l'Alleud, as a town, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Lion's Mound shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this town.

Lion's Mound in Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, is renowned for its impressive artificial hill, which offers panoramic views of the historic Battle of Waterloo site. Its most distinctive feature is the majestic cast-iron lion statue perched atop the mound. Weighing 28 tonnes and symbolizing courage, the lion gazes towards France, representing the Allied victory over Napoleon.

The mound itself is an engineering marvel, constructed using earth from the battlefield, and stands 41 meters high with a base circumference of 520 meters. Visitors can ascend the 226 steps to reach the summit, where they are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape and insight into the battlefield's topography.

Additionally, the Lion's Mound is integrated with the nearby visitor center, which houses an array of multimedia exhibits and artifacts. These elements combined make Lion's Mound not only a significant historical monument but also a unique attraction that offers both educational and visual experiences.

Did you know that Lion's Mound was constructed using 300,000 cubic meters of earth transported from the battlefield itself? This massive project took three years to complete, from 1823 to 1826. The lion statue atop the mound, symbolizing the victory of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, weighs a staggering 28 tons and stands proudly at 4.5 meters tall. Interestingly, the lion faces south towards France, a symbolic gesture of vigilance. Another captivating detail is that the mound is exactly 40 meters high, and the climb to the top involves 226 steps. From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views that stretch up to 25 kilometers on a clear day, offering a unique perspective on the historic landscape.

Getting to Lion's Mound is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Brussels Airport, which is approximately 15.8 miles (25.4 km) from the town center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Lion's Mound.

If you're already in Braine-l'Alleud, the journey to Lion's Mound is an adventure in itself. Located 1.6 miles (2.6 km) from central Braine-l'Alleud, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Lion's Mound is situated at Rte du Lion 1815, 1420 Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Belgium. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Lion's Mound.

The best time to explore Lion's Mound in Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to October. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, offering clear, sunny days that are perfect for outdoor activities. The summer months of June through August are especially favorable, with longer daylight hours allowing for extended exploration. However, this also tends to be the peak tourist season, so travelers might encounter larger crowds.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, early May and late September to October provide a serene atmosphere with fewer visitors. Additionally, the annual reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo, held in mid-June, is a unique event that brings the history of Lion's Mound to life through dramatic performances and historical displays, making it an excellent time for history enthusiasts to visit.

To maximize your visit, aim to arrive early in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the panoramic views from the mound in a more peaceful setting. Remember to check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as occasional rain showers can occur, especially in the transitional months.

As Lion's Mound is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Lion's Mound in Belgium.

Make your journey to Lion's Mound and the breathtaking sights of Belgium unforgettable by traveling on your terms with a rental car.

Local rental companies in Braine-l'Alleud offer vehicles for every type of trip.

Click 'See More' below to discover other affordable options for exploring Braine-l'Alleud and beyond.

When preparing for your visit to Lion's Mound, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Lion's Mound in this section, with options for all travel types.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Lion's Mound. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

Hougoumont Farm is located in Chem. Du Goumont, 1420 Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip. You can visit it at Chem. Des Vertes Bornes, 1420 Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Braine-l'Alleud below to discover even more incredible places to visit.