Day-To-Day- Arrival in Brussels.
- Brussels – Mechelen, 37 mi.
- Mechelen – Bornem, 22 mi.
- Bornem – Ghent, 40 mi.
- Ghent – Bruges, 31 mi.
- Bruges – Ostend – Bruges, 40 mi.
- Departure from Bruges.
DAY 1: Arrival in Brussels.
Brussels may not be a metropolis like Paris, London or Rome, but she will certainly seduce you with her multicultural charm and lively atmosphere. The market square, the Atomium, the famous statue Manneke Pis, and other icons of the Belgian capital are a must for every visitor of Brussels. Moreover, Brussels is also the city of Jugendstil. And of course, there is always a festival such as ‘Couleur Café’, a flower carpet or an interesting exhibition.
DAY 2: Brussels - Mechelen (ca. 60 km/37 mi.)
On the first day, you will cycle to Leuven. This city is not only known as a university city – with the oldest Belgian university, but also as a beer city. A walk in Mechelen, city on the river Dijle, will show you all the important historic buildings, which were erected during the time of the Burgundy. You certainly have to visit the St. Rombouts Cathedral, the palaces of Margarete of York and Margarete of Austria. Or you can also visit the toy’s museum!
DAY 3: Mechelen - Bornem (35 km/22 mi.)
Today you will cycle along the river Rupel and Schelde to Bornem. Because of the short ride there is plenty of time to take a 15-minute train ride towards the center of Antwerp. Enjoy a stroll on the Meir, have a beer on one of the many plazas or admire the rich architecture and art of this charming town.
DAY 4: Bornem – Ghent (ca. 65 km/40 mi.)
Gent, also the historical center of Flanders, offers a variety of places of interest and is overseen by lots of towers, for example the one of the St. Bavo cathedral with the world famous painting by Jan van Eyck. The historic heart of the city is well preserved: you can visit the old port, for example. Nearby, you will find the ‘Gravensteen’, once the medieval castle of the counts of Gent, today one of the most important places of interest.
DAY 5: Ghent - Bruges (ca. 50 km/30 mi.)
The historic center of Bruges is part of the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Seeing Bruges, you will notice it straight away: this city has always taken care of its architectural and cultural treasures. Take your time and stroll along lovely parks, intimate little streets and ancient market squares. You can also do some shopping for the famous local lace, chocolate or beer. Or simple enjoy ‘French’ fries on the stunning market square.
DAY 6: Bruges – Ostend – Bruges (ca. 65 km/40 mi.)
Ride along the canals to the port town of Ostend and further to the authentic coastal village of De Haan, enjoying a refreshing dive into the North Sea or relaxing at the beach. Or you can also enjoy a free day for shopping, a boat ride on the canals, sightseeing by carriage, visiting some museums, climbing the belfry and so on.
DAY 7: Departure from Bruges.
Departure after breakfast or extra night in Bruges or Brussels. Back to Brussels from Bruges by direct train is approx. 1 hour ride.
