Video: First-class fitness at David Lloyd in Uccle

Outside, it's a pretty château in the Prince d'Orange neighbourhood of chic Uccle, on the edge of the Sonian Forest. But explore inside and you'll find a vast, state-of-the-art and prestigious sports complex dedicated to fitness and well-being, from aerobics to zumba.

David Lloyd Leisure provides an exceptional setting for families, couples and individuals to stay in shape, relax and enjoy themselves. Since the British group expanded to Brussels in 2004, the club has been a big hit with the international community. "You can hear any language here. It’s really open to anyone," says sales manager Laura Pogose as she gives us a full guided tour. "We are very lucky to have lots of expats - it’s very international, lots of different cultures."

The sheer number of facilities is impressive: four studios for group lessons, a personal training studio with all the latest fitness equipment, cardio machines, weightlifting, indoor and outdoor swimming pools (heated all year round), a Hammam, two saunas, aquabikes, an indoor sports hall, outdoor field for football and volleyball, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a beach volleyball pitch… There's even space for a leisurely game of pétanque.

Personal coaching from fitness specialists is a key part of helping you achieve your well-being goals. "There’s a big range of classes - 140 and counting," says Pogose. "What’s really good is you don’t have to book - you can just turn up." The team of professionals have thought of everyone - from psychomotricity sessions for three-month-old babies, to Nordic walking in the forest for senior citizens.

And with a creche and kids' club offering sports, games and activities for children up to 12 years old, you can relax knowing your children are being looked after, while you enjoy your experience. There are also family changing facilities, a playground and indoor and outdoor paddling pools.

For a well-earned break, a café bar, restaurant and lounge offers a healthy, balanced selection of dishes, paying careful attention to sugar, fat and protein content. And for a special treat, head up to the top floor where you'll find a beauty salon, hairdresser and massage rooms.

Within easy reach of central Brussels, David Lloyd welcomes early birds from 6.30 on weekday mornings (7.30 at weekends) and is open until late evening, 363 days a year. Members can invite guests to sample the facilities for a day. And if you're travelling, your membership card gives you access to any of David Lloyd's 90 clubs in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands and Spain.

David Lloyd Brussels, Drève de Lorraine 41, 1180 Uccle
Tel: 02 379 32 00
www.davidlloyd.be