Bruges is the one Belgian city, beyond Brussels, most people have heard of, for good reason. This quaint, canal-lined medieval city has a museum-like quality making it seem preserved in time. UNESCO recognised Bruges’ importance and tourists flock to fill its streets during the peak summer months.
There is much more to West Flanders than Bruges however, particularly for history buffs. West Flanders was the site of devastating battles during WWI, with the epicentre at Ypres (or Ieper). This pretty, restored city pays homage to those who died in the muddy fields at the striking Menin Gate. There are a variety of fascinating WWI museums in the area, including the interactive In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres’ former Cloth Hall.
West Flanders also encompasses the Belgian coast. While, as Atlantic Canadians, we’ve never been impressed by Belgium’s overdeveloped beaches, we have to admit, some of the coastal cities are worth visiting even if you never see the sand. We particularly enjoy Oostende, with its excellent seafood restaurants, interesting museums, and peaceful gardens. It’s a great weekend escape from Belgium’s busier cities.
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Westvleteren Trappist Belgian beer
Belgian beer is beloved by beer aficionados around the world and there is one beer coveted above all others – Westvleteren. What is it that makes this Trappist beer so in demand around the world? Our contributor, Adriana, takes us on a quest to find Westvleteren in Flanders.
Andrew surveys the Atlantic Wall with his Swarovski Optik CL-Pocket binoculars
Belgium is famous for its WWI sites and cemeteries, particularly around Ypres. But Flanders is also home to one of the best preserved WWII sites, the Atlantic Wall Museum in Oostende Belgium.
There’s much more to Oostende than the beach
Oostende is smack dab in the middle of the Belgian coast and is a popular beach destination for locals. But there’s plenty to do besides work on your tan. In fact, we have 10 reasons you should visit Oostende and none of them involve getting sandy.
When Andrew and I visit a new Belgian city for a weekend, one of our first missions is to scope out recommended restaurants and make reservations. Over the course of two and a half days, we normally have one exceptional dining experience and one or two good meals. If we’re really lucky, there will be two stand-out meals. Dining in Oostende surpassed our expectations.
Belgian tradition – Shrimp fishing on horseback at Oostduinkerke, Belgium
A special tradition remains in one coastal town in Belgium. It combines the power of horses and the will of men, to bring us a tiny, sweet gift from the sea – the Belgian Grey Shrimp.
Stuck in a Brussels Restaurant rut? We share our 6 Restaurants in Belgium worth leaving Brussels for.
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