Seriously – so worth the little journey to get there!
Finally a sunny day in Brussels, to take advantage, I grabbed my bike and a friend and headed out of town. Way out of town! 25km south of Brussels, just outside of the very cute town of Waterloo, is La Ferme-Mont-Saint-Jean. The property includes a brasserie, shop, museum, and probably most important to note, a micro-brewery and micro-distillery! Essentially, look no further for a relaxing (potentially boozy) afternoon full of fresh air and good food.
The town of Waterloo is located in Wallonia, about 15km south of Brussels. There is a rather striking monument, the Lion’s Head Monument, on the Waterloo battlefield just across from the farm, memorializing Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815. The memorial includes a museum outlining the details of the battle.
Back to the farm and most importantly, the micro-brewery, home to Waterloo Beer… In 2015, the battle’s bicentenary, the town approved plans to renovate the Mont-Saint-Jean farm. The John Martin Brewery team saw the renovation as an opportunity to honor those who fought in the battle of Waterloo and produce Waterloo beer, the beer of bravery.
“The soldiers who fought at the battle of Waterloo in 1815 all had a common enemy: the bacteria living in drinking water. That’s why the local brewers became valuable allies since they allowed soldiers from both parties to hydrate with dark top-fermented beer. This beer was named Waterloo in honour of the victorious Duke of Wellington, the Prince of Waterloo.”
The food and drinks are nice, yet partly pricey. The atmosphere is wonderful, and the service is lovely! The perfect afternoon excursion from Brussels!
(As mentioned, can be reached via bike – highly suggested – or by bus… with some walking. Again, totally worth it!)
Brasserie de Waterloo – Chau. de Charleroi 591, 1410 Waterloo, Belgium
