Bruges, Belgium

[si_xsi]

Hi All,

I'm after a bit of inspiration please. My partner and I will be going to Bruges soon for a 3 night break, this will be my 3rd trip to Bruges and the first time for my other half. Bearing in mind you can see most of Bruges in a couple of days, could anyone recommend somewhere else to visit for a morning, afternoon or evening nearby (say within 1-1.5 drive) of Bruges to mix it up a bit? We are both in our early 30s, the sea or walk along a beach / promenade or somewhere picturesque and non-touristy would be good. To clarify, we have already booked 3 nights in Bruges so not after staying another night in the alternative location.

Thanks

Simon

[si_xsi]

Thanks both, just what I needed. Damme looks lovely and we may well try Ghent and leave the Jewellery shopping for another time!

[si_xsi]

Some great ideas all, thank you. Think I might need to go on that bike ride after the beer, ribs and cheese. Off tomorrow, really looking forward to it.

[si_xsi]

Returned from Bruges on Sunday evening – had a great time, thanks to all those who suggested things to do. Only downer was on Sunday when a Cruise ship had clearly docked somewhere close by and the whole town was invaded by hundreds (mostly American) of ‘tourists’, I know we were tourists, but you know the type I mean, the groups who waddle around aimlessly taking photos of everything and anything but not really knowing why they were there. We sat outside an amazing coffee and cake shop one morning enjoying breakfast (a waffle) and I thought one of them was about to sit on my lap the way they were commenting, pointing and staring at it.

On the Saturday we visited Damme and went for a bike ride in the afternoon, it was a really nice way to see the local countryside. We tried to get into The Garre Bar and Ribs N Beer but unfortunately both were fully booked up. Instead and for my birthday meal, we had an amazing Fish Bouillabaisse at a restaurant in one of the many small squares in the centre. I enjoyed some of the local Brugges beers and forgotten how strong some of them were, so much so that after a few of those at lunchtime I needed an afternoon kip!

We visited Knokke Heist beach and sea front which was ok, very busy and clearly a lot of money around there judging by the designer shops and cars driving around. The weather was kind so we were able to take a walk along the canals in Brugges (normally ending up in a pub or café). My other half loved it and there is still much to explore in Belgium, I like how accessible it is from Calais we could have spent 5-6 hours going down to Cornwall or the West Country but for probably the same price or less, we went to another Country. If we go again Ypres and Ghent are on the list.