Bruges, Belguim. (Jun 22)

We’ve just spent a few days exploring a little slice of Belgium and the Netherlands from our base in Bruges.

What a fantastic part of the world!

The beaches just across the border in Cadzand were pristine with some great beach bars and restaurants hidden along the dunes.

We’ve been enjoying the countryside, city architecture, beers, bars and bikes – also managing to fit in a 54km scenic circular cycle around the city – it’s called the Green Belt Route which takes in many local villages (the north west section which takes in Damme is the best). Shorts and tee shirts were called for well into the evening, and the bars have such a great selection of beers – most of which have stupidly high alcohol content – especially the Triples, which I’ve now started to really enjoy!

Brugge is so rich with history including having close ties with the British monarchy – King Charles lived here after the civil war and before the restoration and I didn’t know (until now) that the Grenadier Guards and regiment of the Life Guards were formed here in in Belgium.

What a contrast from the craziness of last weekend… it’s well worth a visit and only a few hours drive from Dover!