We spent a day and a half in Brugges back in 2008. What inspired us to go there? The first reason, its reputation as the Venice of the north, second, the recommendations of Lori’s cousins in England, and third, the movie “In Brugges”. We went to see the movie during the planning stages of the trip while investigating where to go, and determined that it was definitely a place to see. The plan became an excursion through southwest England, then through the Chunnel to France, driving into Brugges and continuing by train into Amsterdam.
Upon arriving in Brugges, we dumped our stuff at the B&B we were staying at and headed out. Beautiful place. Here is a couple of pictures to give you the feel.
The entire medieval city is lined with canals.
We continued on and eventually we made it to the square. This was a focal point in the movie, and is definitely the focal point of the city. It is huge, and very alive. This is our first look as we came upon it.
We entered the square and looked about, then went off for lunch. Very enjoyable. The three major things that Belgium is known for are pictured below.
Belgian Waffles,
And of course, Beer. This particular beer is Zot. It is a local brew. One of the best we’ve ever had.
We headed back to the square area and did some more touring. Very exhausting. The square is surrounded by restaurants and bars. I found one to my liking and stopped off for another refreshing beverage. Surprisingly, not a beer, but a wonderful hot chocolate. This the third thing Belgium is famous for, chocolate.
We left and continued our tour. Then, suddenly and without warning, we walked into my version of heaven. Something so spectacular, I needed three pictures to get it all in.
Yes, an entire wall of beer. Each beer is brewed in Belgium and each has its own special glass. Mind boggling. I was completely shocked to notice that there was a bar here, and, being completely overwhelmed and weak in the knees, we had stop and rest. Actually, seeing all this put a pretty big smile on my face.
After doing a bit more sight-seeing, all that was left was supper. We located a dining spot that could accommodate our entire group and had a fabulous supper (evening in general). There is much that can be said about good, as in good friends, good food, good drink and good times.
It’s all good.
Oh, my favorite sity 🙂
Great place, very relaxing. We will be back there someday.
Between the wall of beer for me and hot chocolate for my girl, we would never make it out of the cafe to see the city.
You paint a really nice picture of it, John. I’d like to get there one day, probably as part of a larger trip involving other destinations…
Tough place to leave Definitely recommend it as part of a grand tour. We wish we had had more time to explore the area.
You got me already at the photos of the architecture, but by the time I got to the wall of bear it was decided – I’m going there someday!
Yes the beer. ’twas a great sight. It is a must see place. It is well situated on the way to Amsterdam etc from the channel ports. Very relaxing.
I now know where I must go. Not only does it look beautiful, but a wall of beer? Are you kidding me? That is amazing! Time to start saving for a big trip and preparing the liver for large amounts of beer.
It is a great place to relax. And did i mention the chocolate.