The home of surrealism, Belgium is a fascinating country, with two languages –
French and Flemish – and two atmospheres to experience. Take in the cobbled
lanes of diamond-capital Antwerp and chocoholic Brussels, pausing for a
Lambic beer in medieval squares. Escape to the country in the Ardennes'
wooded tracks and trails. And make time for the poignant First World War battlefields of
Flanders. Be invigorated on the sandy beaches and dunes of the Flemish coast,
and the leafy waterways that criss-cross the country. And don't forget to try
Belgium's famous beer and chocolate.
Background
Explore the French-speaking Wallonia region located in the south of Belgium.
Flemish (similar to Dutch) is the main language in Flanders, which occupies
the northern part of the country. You might want to learn a few words but most
residents of Brussels speak very good English. A string of resorts and the
ports Ostend and Zeebrugge line Belgium's 40 miles of
North Sea coastline. Inland, you'll discover picturesque Belgian
cities and towns with well-preserved medieval architecture.
Urban
Brussels is famous for its swirling Art Nouveau style, epitomised by architect
Victor Horta – you can even visit his house, la Maison Horta. Close to the
capital, the university town of Leuven is packed with breweries, bars and
restaurants. Admire Antwerp with its striking Renaissance Old Town, best
viewed from the River Scheldt. Savour a fresh seafood meal then have a
flutter at the casino in Ostend, which celebrates the fancy-dress Dead Rat
Ball every March. Explore the web of canals in romantic Bruges, and the waterways
and medieval architecture of Ghent. Or travel south to artistic
Liège, the fortified centre of Namur and the gothic
splendour of Mons. Pamper yourself in the healing waters of Spa.
Rural
Set your own pace and walk or cycle along hundreds of miles of footpaths and disused
railway lines in the Ardennes. Enjoy boating along Belgium's canals
and waterways. Wander the windswept sand dunes and beaches lining the Flemish
coast. Visit the Zwin, nature reserve near Knokke-Heist and
enjoy a gourmet meal at a rural restaurant. Contemplate the tragic loss of life at
Flanders' World War I battlefields.
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