Day 1 Arrival in Bruges
Bruges and its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are immediately noticed for their architecture and cultural treasures. Take time to appreciate the medieval atmosphere in the narrow streets and ancient markets. Bruges is also a great place to buy the famous Belgian chocolate or try one of the Belgian beers. Or take a seat on the Grand-Place with the traditional meal: French fries!
Day 2 Bruges – Ostende 40 km
On the way to Ostend, we pass the charming little village of Lissewege, the best example of a Belgian coastal hinterland village. You’re sure to be charmed by the silence and the indescribable atmosphere! After Lissewege, we move on to Blankenberge, Belgium’s favorite seaside town! Here you can discover underwater life in the Sealife Centre, or when the weather’s fine, head for the beach. And we haven’t forgotten De Haan, the only town on the coast that has managed to retain its “Belle Epoque” (19th century) atmosphere. After a fabulous tour, we arrive in Ostend, also known as “the queen of beaches”.
Day 3 Tour to Gistel, Wijnendale and Torhout 62 km
The hike also takes us past a number of interesting castles. The first is Aertrycke Castle, built in 1869 for Baron August de Maere. The other castle, ‘Wijnendale’, has a history of around 8 centuries and was one of the favorite residences of the Count of Flanders. Torhout is the oldest town in Flanders, but it’s still alive! You certainly must have tried the local beer ‘Thouroutenaere’!
Day 4 Tour to Nieuwpoort and Veurne 64 km
Nieuwpoort, like Ostend and Blankenberge, is a popular seaside resort. This small town lies on the banks of the Yser, a river that played an important role in the First World War. Take a stroll around the harbor or the ‘Ysermonde’ nature reserve. Or why not take a break on the beach? Veurne’s charm is hard to describe in a few words. Veurne is best known for its procession of penitents.
Day 5 Ostende – Bruges 47 km
For the return to Bruges, we’ve devised a different route to the one we started with. We pass Jabbeke, where you can visit the Constant Permeke Museum (paintings and sculptures). In the Beisbroek observatory, you can learn all about the mysteries of the universe. If you’re more interested in nature, the ‘Nature Centre’ is the ideal place to expand your knowledge of the natural world.
Day 6 Tour to Knokke 62 km
On day 6, we’ll explore the region between Bruges and Knokke, the most fashionable village on the Belgian coast. It’s sure to be another incredible ride, through the Flemish polders and along the typical dunes. The most interesting site is the ‘Het Zwin’ nature reserve and the picturesque little town of Damme. Or, weather permitting, you can even take a swim!
Day 7 Departure
It is time to say goodbye, it is the end of you cycle holiday.
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