Adventure in Bruges, West Flanders!

Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a sweet adventure in the heart of Brussels with a visit to Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum, a paradise for chocolate lovers and adventure seekers alike. Begin your journey at the Grand Place, Brussels’ stunning central square, easily accessible by metro (stations De Brouckère or Gare Centrale) or by bus (lines 48 and 95). From there, a short walk will lead you to the doors of Choco-Story, located on Rue de l"Etuve.

As you step into Choco-Story, you’ll dive into the rich history of chocolate, tracing its origins back to ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans who first cultivated the cacao plant. The museum expertly combines interactive displays with authentic artifacts, bringing the chocolate story to life before your eyes. Learn how chocolate made its decadent journey from the New World to European nobility, eventually becoming Belgium’s pride and joy.

Your adventure continues as you witness live chocolate-making demonstrations by master chocolatiers. The air fills with the irresistible aroma of melting chocolate, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste various chocolates, each revealing a different layer of complexity and craftsmanship.

Don’t miss the hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at crafting your own chocolate creations. It’s a delightful way to engage with the artisanal skills that have made Belgian chocolate renowned worldwide.

Before leaving, explore the museum shop where you can pick up unique chocolate-themed souvenirs and some of Belgium’s finest chocolate to take home.

Choco-Story is not just a museum; it’s an immersive experience that connects you to the heart and soul of chocolate. Whether you’re a history buff, a culinary enthusiast, or simply in it for some fun, this chocolate adventure promises to be a sweet highlight of your Brussels visit.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Sint-Janshospitaal (Saint John’s Hospital)

Why Visit?

Embark on a historical adventure in the heart of Bruges, Belgium, with a visit to the mesmerizing Sint-Janshospitaal (Saint John"s Hospital), one of Europe"s oldest surviving hospital buildings. This captivating site offers a deep dive into medieval medical practices and remarkable art, making it a must-visit for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Starting Point: Bruges City Center

Begin your day in the bustling Markt square, the vibrant center of Bruges. From here, Sint-Janshospitaal is a mere 10-minute walk. Head south towards Mariastraat, and immerse yourself in the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets that make Bruges a fairy-tale city. As you walk, take in the picturesque views of the famous canals.

Sint-Janshospitaal Exploration

Arriving at Sint-Janshospitaal, located on Mariastraat, you’ll notice the impressive structure that dates back to the 12th century. The hospital functioned until 1977 and now houses a museum and an old pharmacy. Purchase your tickets (around €8-12) at the entrance and step into a world where monks and nuns once served as caretakers for pilgrims, travelers, and the sick.

Inside the Museum

Explore rooms filled with ancient medical instruments, hospital beds, and religious artifacts. Don"t miss the exquisite works by Hans Memling, a German-born painter who was a resident of Bruges. His masterpieces, including the famous "Shrine of St. Ursula," are housed here.

Old Pharmacy and Herb Garden

After marveling at the artworks, visit the old pharmacy complete with its jars and medicinal bottles, giving you a glimpse into the healthcare practices of the past. Adjacent to it, find the peaceful herb garden, once used to cultivate medicinal plants for patient treatment.

Wrap Up at the Hospital Chapel

Conclude your visit at the hospital chapel, a serene space featuring stunning stained glass and religious sculptures, rounding off a journey through time in this unique medieval hospital.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a lover of art and architecture, Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges promises a fascinating adventure into the past, filled with learning and discovery.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Bruges Beer Museum (Brugs Biermuseum)

Why Visit?

Adventure-Lovers" Itinerary: Bruges Beer Museum and Beyond

Morning: Arrival and Medieval Marvels

Start your day in the enchanting city of Bruges, a place where the past and present merge beautifully. Arrive by train at Bruges Station, where you can rent a bike right outside—a perfect way to blend in with the locals and fuel your adventurous spirit. Pedal your way through cobblestone streets, heading towards the Market Square (Markt), the beating heart of the city. Here, towering belfries and historic facades set the scene for your day.

Mid-Morning: Dive into Beer History

Continue to the Bruges Beer Museum, located just off the Markt at Breidelstraat 3. This innovative museum not only offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Belgian brewing but also leverages modern technology to enhance your experience. Use the interactive tablets provided to explore the intricacies of beer brewing, ingredients, and the pivotal role this beloved beverage has played in local culture. Fun Fact: Belgium boasts over 1,500 different beers!

Lunch: Belgian Bites

Refuel with a hearty lunch at one of the local breweries nearby, where you can sample artisanal beers paired with traditional Flemish dishes. Try the famous "stoofvlees", a rich beer stew.

Afternoon: Canal Adventure

Post-lunch, head to the picturesque canals for a kayaking tour—an exhilarating way to view the city from a different angle. Glide under ancient bridges and past silent, watching swans, feeling the pulse of old Bruges with every paddle stroke.

Late Afternoon: Climb and Conquer

Before the day winds down, visit the Belfry of Bruges. Challenge yourself to climb the 366 steps to the top. Your reward? A breathtaking panorama of the city, a perfect spot for a sunset gaze.

Evening: Reflect and Relax

Conclude your adventure with a relaxed stroll back to the Markt. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a cozy tavern, reflecting on a day well spent amidst the timeless allure of Bruges.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde (Begijnhof)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde (Begijnhof), a serene oasis nestled in the bustling heart of Bruges, Belgium. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic beguinage offers a unique glimpse into the medieval spiritual lifestyle of the Beguines, lay religious women who lived a life devoted to God without retiring from the world.

Getting There: Begin your adventure at the Bruges train station, a convenient access point well-connected to major cities like Brussels and Antwerp. From the station, it"s a scenic 15-minute walk. Follow the signs leading south towards Minnewater Park. As you stroll, you"ll pass charming cobbled streets and the picturesque Lake of Love (Minnewater), perfect for a tranquil pitstop.

Exploring Beguinage: Enter through the solemn gate and find yourself transported back to the 13th century. The courtyard, surrounded by quaint white-coloured houses and a tranquil convent garden, offers a profound sense of peace. Immerse yourself in the history by visiting the Beguinage museum, housed in one of the preserved houses. Here, learn about the daily lives of the Beguines, explore preserved artifacts, and understand their self-sustained community structure.

Adventure Tip: For the more spiritually adventurous, join the afternoon prayer service at the Beguinage church. Experience the historical continuity of the site, where prayers have been offered for centuries.

Interesting Fact: Every spring, the courtyard becomes a spectacular sight with its carpet of daffodils, creating a vivid contrast against the white houses—a photographer’s delight!

After the Visit: Round off your journey by exploring the surrounding areas. Just outside the Beguinage, indulge in some local Belgian cuisine at one of the quaint cafes or continue your adventure by taking a boat tour of Bruges’ famous canals nearby.

The Beguinage is not just a step back in time; it’s a step into tranquility. An indispensable stop for any adventurer seeking a blend of peace, history, and natural beauty in the heart of one of Europe’s most charming cities.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

De Halve Maan Brewery

Why Visit?

Embark on a spirited adventure through the heart of Bruges, where history and hops blend seamlessly at De Halve Maan Brewery, the city’s last remaining family brewery. This journey promises not only a tantalizing taste of Belgium"s famed brews but also a dive into the rich tapestry of Bruges’ brewing heritage.

Morning: Arrival in Bruges

Start your day with an invigorating walk or a bike ride along the cobblestone streets of Bruges. The city is wonderfully compact, making it easy to explore by foot or on two wheels. Head towards the south of the city’s historic center to find De Halve Maan Brewery located on Walplein 26. If you’re arriving by train, the brewery is a scenic 20-minute walk from Bruges" main station or a short ride by bus – take lines 6 or 16.

Midday: Tour De Halve Maan

Step into De Halve Maan Brewery at noon for their guided tour, which kicks off with an enthralling historical overview of the family"s brewing legacy, dating back to 1856. As you weave through ancient brewing halls and state-of-the-art facilities, your guide will reveal the secrets behind their famous Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik beers. The highlight? A climb up the brewery tower that offers a panoramic view of the city – a perfect spot for adventure lovers to soak in the medieval architecture from above.

Afternoon: Tasting Session

Post-tour, relish a tasting session of some freshly brewed creations. Engage with fellow travelers and locals at the brewery’s bustling courtyard or the cozy bar. Each sip offers insights into the complex flavors that define Belgian beer.

Late Afternoon: Explore More

Spend the remainder of your day wandering through Bruges’ enchanting streets. Visit the Gruuthusemuseum or take a boat tour along the canals to see why Bruges is called "The Venice of the North."

This adventure in Bruges, steeped in history and hops, promises a stimulating exploration of Belgian beer culture and the medieval mystique of one of Europe’s most charming towns.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.