Bruges, 17th century splendor trapped in time for 21st century travellers, relaxes your soul and if you drink to much Belgian beer softens your brain.
Accommodation
After train fumbling our way to Bruges, fate delivered us into the creaky floor ambience of Koen & Annemie Dieltiens’ Bed and Breakfast. Well located near the town square, and decorated with their eclectic art collection Koen and Annemie created the perfect base for your visit to Bruges. Just be sure to leave the candy alone at the foot of the spiral staircase. My daughter is convinced the large wooden figure holding the candy follows any takers to their room with murderous intent.
Bruges Vibe
All the sights, shopping and restaurants lie within the one and half square mile old city, and you could blitz through Bruges in a long day. Improve your experience with a two day visit and experience Bruges instead of just seeing the city. Grab a beer (choose from 300+ varieties) and watch the world roll by between museums.
Food and Drink
A scrumptious continental breakfast served with old world charm fuelled our bodies and soul as fellow travellers shared their tips and experiences. During the day, we grazed on Vlaamse frites (Flemish fries), Belgian waffles, fruit and the occasional beer.
Many visitors to Bruges dine at the many market square restaurants but we opted for two back street local favourites, L’Estaminet and Pili Pili. Both served great pasta and a fine selection of Beigium’s best beers but the local buzz at L’Estaminet drew us back for a second night.
Belgian beer, art and history in a bottle, forced me to recant years of beer denial. Each beer is served in specific glass emblazoned with its name (expect an apology if they run out and serve yours in a different one) to enhance your beverage experience. Fruity lambics, distinctly Belgian and interesting, get a lot of press but the Trappist beers turn wine connoisseurs into beer barrel polka dancers, and deserve your full attention.
Sights and Museums
Grand stain glass windows filter light into the small chapel containing Bruges Holiest relic, a small crystal purported to contain the blood of Christ. Both the faithful and curious appreciate the opulence of the reliquary whose grandeur befits the relic of this stature.
In the Church of Our Lady, Michelangelo’s petite sculpture of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus is serene, masterful but lacks the power of his David or the Piety in Rome. Expect to be shooshed by an attendant if your voice is raised above an ear twisting whisper.
Tour Bruges only brewery for some fun beer facts, a quick glance at the brewing process and a great town view from the balcony (weather permitting). The tour finishes with the only beer brewed in town, Brugse Zot, and a fine brew it is.
Related link: Travel Photographs – Bruges, Belgium