Solvay Sunday Stroll

With our youngsters at home due to yesterday's birthdays, the missus decided we should take a walk in the park around the Chateau Solvay. Built by the wealthy Belgian industrialists of that name, the grounds are extensive and well-maintained with lawns and woods and lakes with the castle peeping through on the horizon when we arrived.

Weather was good for a walk; mostly dry and not too hot and the sun peeking through the clouds while a good breeze increased the sensation of breathing fresh air.

 

The grounds also have the Folon museum housed in some outbuildings, with some of the artist's sculptures outside. The fountain next to the auberge terrace was still dry.

The fountain in a little courtyard by the museum exit did work; it needs to because otherwise the point it makes is lost.

Close by are the old stables; mostly closed and a bit run-down even though still in use.

No petrol at this private pump anymore.
 

Around the corner the chateau was also closed, though a column of rental vans arrived with what appeared to be equipment for a sizeable event.

We continued our walk across the immense lawn towards a solar ornament on a tall mast at the other end.

Back through the woods and around the lake to the auberge terrace for refreshing drinks in the sunshine and that was an afternoon well-spent!