Travel Log

Brugge (Bruges), Belgium

Brugge or Bruge, Belgium has the distinction of being Europe's best-preserved medieval city and Belgium's most popular tourist destination, a veritable 13th-century 'open air museum'. It is a small town with lots of character and charm, with cobbled streets and a maze of waterways inviting exploration by foot, horse-drawn carriage or canal boat. The winding streets are lined with gorgeous buildings and churches and among them are a collection of museums housing some of the country's finest art, notably the Stadhuis and the Groeninge Museum. A must-see for visitors to Europe, the entire historic center has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brugge is also known also as the 'Venice of the North' and as such attracts many romantics to its intimate streets and canals; the graceful ambiance of its ancient buildings provides the perfect backdrop for a special weekend away. (Thank you to D & J. Recker for the use of their photo!)

Brugge (Bruges), Belgium

Brugge or Bruge, Belgium has the distinction of being Europe's best-preserved medieval city and Belgium's most popular tourist destination, a veritable 13th-century 'open air museum'. It is a small town with lots of character and charm, with cobbled streets and a maze of waterways inviting exploration by foot, horse-drawn carriage or canal boat. For a spectacular view over the red tiled roofs the more energetic can climb the 366 stairs of the central bell tower (belfort). The winding streets are lined with gorgeous buildings and churches and among them are a collection of museums housing some of the country's finest art, notably the Stadhuis and the Groeninge Museum. A must-see for visitors to Europe, the entire historic centre has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brugge is also known also as the 'Venice of the North' and as such attracts many romantics to its intimate streets and canals; the graceful ambiance of its ancient buildings provides the perfect backdrop for a special weekend away. (Thank you to D & J. Recker for the use of their photo!)

Orval Abbey, Belgium

Orval Abbey is located in South-eastern Belgium. The Abbey is famous for many reasons, including it's brewery which produces Orval beer. The cheese factory is interesting as well and produces a raw, pressed yellow cheese from pasteurized milk that comes from the Gaume region. The Orval Abbey has a long history which can be read about in detail at www.orval.be . The grounds are beautiful and the Abbey is inhabited by monks who care for the daily needs of the Abbey. Tours of the brewery are only for those in the trade and/or by appointment only. There is a "guest" area (available from 2-7 days) which can be coordinated for groups, for those in personal distress or those just in need of rest and recollection. If you plan to visit Belgium, the Orval Abbey is certainly worth a day trip. For more details about the guest accommodations or to inquire about availability, please email or call. (Thanks to D. & J. Recker for the use of their photo!)