West Flanders: Discover the Charming Province on the Belgian Coast

West Flanders, located in the northwest of Belgium, is a province with a rich history, beautiful nature, and a charming coastline. This region offers numerous opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy the best of Belgium. From historic cities and picturesque villages to vast sandy beaches and impressive dune landscapes - West Flanders has something for everyone.

Historical Treasures and Cultural Richness

West Flanders is home to some of Belgium's most historical and culturally significant cities, each offering their unique charm and heritage. Bruges, Ghent, Ypres, and Kortrijk are just a few of the cities that provide visitors with a rich history, impressive architecture, and diverse cultural experiences.

Bruges

Bruges is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium and is a popular tourist destination. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bruges' historic centre is filled with medieval buildings and ...

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Ghent

Ghent is a charming city with a beautiful historic centre. The Castle of the Counts, a medieval castle, is a must-see, as are St Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry and the Korenmarkt. Ghent also has ...

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Ypres

Ypres, located in the Westhoek of West Flanders, is a city with a deep historical past. Especially known for its role during World War I, Ypres is now an important centre for remembrance and education.

Menin Gate

One of the most iconic landmarks in Ypres is the Menin Gate, an impressive war memorial that bears the names of more than 54,000 missing British and Commonwealth soldiers. Every evening at 8:00 PM, the Last Post is played here, a touching tribute to the fallen.

In Flanders Fields Museum

The In Flanders Fields Museum, housed in the beautifully restored Cloth Hall on the Main Square, is a must-see for anyone interested in World War I. This interactive museum tells the story of the war in the Westhoek through personal testimonies, multimedia, and original artifacts.

Saint Martin's Cathedral

Besides its wartime history, Ypres also has much to offer in terms of culture and architecture. Admire the Saint Martin's Cathedral, an impressive Gothic building with a rich history, or stroll through the picturesque Ramparts Park, where you can see the remnants of the old city walls.

Ypres is also a lively city with various events and festivals throughout the year. Enjoy the Ypres Fair, a large spring fair, or the Cat Parade, a unique folkloric procession held every three years. The city also offers numerous cosy cafés and restaurants where you can sample local specialities like potjesvlees and Ypres biscuits.

Ypres is a city that attracts visitors with its impressive history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you are interested in its wartime past, want to enjoy Flemish hospitality, or are looking for a charming city trip, Ypres has it all.

Kortrijk

Kortrijk, situated on the banks of the Leie river, is a historic city with a rich past. One of the most iconic sights in Kortrijk are the Broel Towers, two impressive medieval towers that were part of the old city wall. The towers, connected by a bridge over the Leie, are a beautiful example of military architecture and a symbol of the city.

Belfry

Another important landmark in Kortrijk is the Belfry, located on the Main Square. This Gothic building, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest belfry in Belgium and offers a panoramic view over the city.

Béguinage

Stroll through the historic streets of Kortrijk and discover the Béguinage, the Town Hall, and the Church of Our Lady. Also visit the interactive Kortrijk 1302 Museum, where you can learn more about the Battle of the Golden Spurs, an important battle in the history of Flanders.

Kortrijk also has a vibrant cultural scene, with various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the International Film Festival Kortrijk and the Sinksen Festival. The city is also home to some excellent restaurants and cosy cafés, where you can enjoy local gastronomy and warm Flemish hospitality.

With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Kortrijk is a sight not to be missed during your visit to West Flanders.

Other Attractions in West Flanders

Besides the well-known historical cities of Bruges, Ghent, Ypres, and Kortrijk, there are many other fascinating attractions in West Flanders waiting to be discovered. Below is a list of some of the most beautiful ones:

The Yser Tower in Diksmuide

The Yser Tower is an impressive peace monument commemorating the fallen of World War I. Standing at 84 metres high, it is the tallest peace monument in the world. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings and the nearby nature reserve 'De Blankaart'.

Address: IJzerdijk 49, Diksmuide

Castle of Loppem

The Castle of Loppem is a romantic neo-Gothic castle, surrounded by a beautiful park with ponds and a maze. Built in the 19th century, the castle is now open to the public. Admire the rich interiors and art collection, and explore the surrounding park with its many walking paths.

Address: Steenbrugsestraat 26, Loppem

Saint Sixtus Abbey of Westvleteren

The Saint Sixtus Abbey of Westvleteren is a Trappist monastery known for its world-famous Westvleteren beers. Although the monastery itself is not open to the public, you can enjoy a Westvleteren Trappist beer and a bite to eat at the visitor centre "In de Vrede". Here, you can also learn more about the life of the monks and their brewery.

Address: Donkerstraat 12, Westvleteren

Tyne Cot Cemetery in Passchendaele

Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in Belgium and an important memorial site for World War I. Almost 12,000 soldiers are buried here, many of whom could not be identified. The impressive Tyne Cot Memorial to the Missing honours the 35,000 missing soldiers of Great Britain and New Zealand. A visit to this cemetery is a poignant and impressive experience.

Address: Vijfwegestraat, Passchendaele

Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Roeselare

Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Roeselare is a beautiful neo-Gothic building, located on the Main Square. Built in the 19th century, the cathedral is known for its impressive stained-glass windows and the magnificent organ. Besides religious services, cultural events and concerts are also regularly held here. The cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and well worth a visit.

Address: Main Square 26, Roeselare

Veurne

Veurne is a historic town with beautiful market squares, such as the Main Square, and impressive monuments like the Town Hall and Saint Nicholas' Church. The charming town centre and the atmospheric streets make Veurne a pleasant destination to explore.

Address: Main Square, Veurne

West Flanders is a province full of surprises and breathtaking attractions. From historic cities to nature parks and from impressive monuments to charming coastal towns, you will never be bored during your visit to this versatile region. Get out and discover the treasures of West Flanders for yourself!