Brugge, Belgium

To celebrate the long Labor Day weekend, and our anniversary, we made our way to Brugge in Belgium.  This city has long been our list of places to see for an assortment of reasons: Belgium in general is a wonderful country, people that have visited rave about it, it is near the North Sea (in case sun worshiping is desired), and of course the world famous chocolates that the country is so well known for producing.

 

Brugge  (or in English, ‘Bruges’) is located in the northwest corner of Belgium and is sometimes referred to as “The Venice of the North”.   Although a major attraction for tourists, the city is of significant economic importance to the region thanks to the nearby port (that brings said tourists from the boats into the city 15 kilometers down the road).  About 45,000 people reside in what is referred to as “the old center” but this number grows to over 120,000 once you include the suburbs.

We could have easily made this visit a day trip, but instead we opted to take the advice of many by enjoying at least one night walking around the “old center” at night.  Not to give away the end of the story…..but that was VERY good advice.  Brugge, much like Venice, takes on another form at night.  During the day with the crowds of visitors shuffling around the city, it is easy to overlook some of the unique features that Brugge has to offer.  From the cobbled-stone streets to the old school street lights, there is much to enjoy and take in when you walk the street at night when everyone has called it a day.

 

But we’ll get to all that.  For now, let’s start at the beginning.   As we drove into the city in search of our hotel, we (mainly ‘I’) was VERY happy to be driving our smaller car option the Polo.  I’m pretty sure some of the side streets we “found” would not have allowed our Subi to pass without a scratch or two on the mirrors.  Parking our car and crossing over one of the several bridges we spot a pair of white swans enjoying a leisurely swim on the canal.  A good omen for sure.

A few more views of the canal…... 

Heading into the heart of the city to take in some of the historic buildings and churches.  Here is the courtyard at the Groeningemuseum.

The Church of Our Lady.  This all-brick tower stands at over 122 meters making it one of the world’s highest brick buildings.  Impressive….

Andrea taking in the day…..or perhaps marveling at the long line of tourists waiting for a ride on the canal. 

Belgium is famous for the chocolate, but it is also well-known for its beer production.  How famous?  Well let’s just say the country offers some variety.  We found a store dedicated to selling all 780 different Belgium beers that are brewed throughout the country.  To prove they offer all 780, they have conveniently placed one beer from each brewery in a glass showcase and appropriately named it “The Beer Wall”.  Wow.  

The Provinciaal Hof

One of the better known attractions in Brugge: the 13^th century belfry that houses a carillon comprised of 48 bells.  Stick around during the day and you can enjoy the music played by the full-time carillonneur.  Or, you can pay the Euros and climb your way to the top and enjoy the view of the city (which we opted to skip…..given the LOADS of people making their up and down the narrow and winding staircase…talk about a people jam). 

The fountain at the center of the Markt

We found a canal tour with a short line so we jumped in.  The views along the ride were well worth the few Euros it costs to take the boat trip.  

Andrea enjoying the view found in the Burg Square

More views of the canal….

A great place to rest the feet.....one of the oldest establishments in Brugge 

The walks at night were amazing and lived up to the reputation……

The sculpture Madonna and Child, Michelango’s only sculpture to have left Italy within his lifetime. 

Near our hotel….you can now understand why I was glad to have driven the Polo versus the Subi. 

View of Brugge from a rooftop.

Of course you cannot go to Belgium and not see an old school windmill!  

On our last day we ventured down the road about 15 kilometers to take in the North Sea.  Unfortunately we missed the warm weather but the views were still worth the drive.  

Heading out to to dip a toe in the North Sea.  Check. 

Andrea laughing at me while I attempt to take the perfect picture without getting wet from the incoming tide.  

After a quick bite to eat we made the 3+ hour trip back to home.  Brugge is yet one more good reason to travel around Belgium.  And the chocolates!!  Man.....I'm sure the dentist is going to have a few words with me on my next visit.  Given the close proximity to our home, I think it is safe to assume we will be returning to Brugge in the near future....even if it is for just one night.  Walking the quiet cobbled-stoned streets at night while munching on chocolates is a good time and I highly recommend it to anyone considering a visit to Brugge in the future.  After all, it is a fairy tale place (name the movie).