Ghent Accessible City Explorations: Wheelchair & Scooter Tours
Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Ghent!
Gravensteen Castle (Castle of the Counts)
Why Visit?
Embark on a captivating journey to Gravensteen Castle, the iconic 12th-century fortress nestled in the heart of Ghent. This imposing medieval castle, once the seat of the Counts of Flanders, is now accessible to all, thanks to thoughtful adaptations for wheelchair users and mobile scooters.
Getting There
Gravensteen is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. From Ghent"s main train station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, you can take tram line 1 directly to the Gravensteen stop. The area around the castle is mostly flat, making it convenient for wheelchair users. For those driving, there are designated accessible parking spaces nearby on Sint-Widostraat.
Touring the Castle
Begin your adventure at the visitor center, where you can pick up a free informational brochure available in multiple languages, detailing the castle’s rich history and architecture. The ground floor of the castle, including the courtyard and the impressive Hall of the Counts, is fully accessible.
Ramps and an elevator have been installed, allowing those in wheelchours or on scooters to explore the museum section. Here, you’ll discover a fascinating collection of medieval artifacts, such as arms and armory, which illustrate the power and prestige of the Counts of Flanders.
Interesting Facts
- Gravensteen is one of the few castles in Europe that remains almost entirely intact.
- The castle was restored in the late 19th century by the famous architect Joseph de Waele, who played a pivotal role in preserving its medieval character.
Accessibility
Accessible restrooms are available on-site. The staff at Gravensteen are trained to assist visitors with mobility needs, ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.
End your tour by soaking in the panoramic views of Ghent from the castle’s ramparts, accessible via the elevator, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos from your visit to this majestic fortress.
Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.
St. Nicholas’ Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk)
Why Visit?
Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of St. Nicholas" Church, Ghent
Embark on an inspiring journey through Ghent"s history with a visit to the majestic St. Nicholas" Church. This magnificent building, a prime example of Scheldt Gothic architecture, is not only a feast for the eyes but also accessible for wheelchair users.
Getting There
St. Nicholas" Church is centrally located in the heart of Ghath, easily reachable via public transport. Trams 1 and 4 stop at Korenmarkt, a short, flat distance from the church. If you"re driving, consider parking at the nearby Vrijdagmarkt or Sint-Michiels parking garages, which offer accessible parking spaces and smooth surfaces for easy mobility.
Start Your Tour
Begin your exploration at the impressive west façade on Cataloniëstraat. This entrance is equipped with ramps that ensure a smooth transition into the church"s serene interior. As you enter, soak in the breathtaking atmosphere, where light filters through the stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the stone floor.
Inside the Church
Wheelchair-accessible paths lead you around the church, allowing you to admire the fine details of the altars, the organ, and various religious artworks without obstruction. Informational placards in multiple languages offer insights into the history and significance of the features around you.
Don"t Miss
- The central nave: Experience the remarkable acoustics and the grandeur of the high vaulted ceilings.
- The organ: Built by the famous organ builder Pieter Van Peteghem, it"s a masterpiece of both sight and sound.
- The Tower: Although the tower itself isn"t accessible, ask the staff about the virtual tour options which provide breathtaking panoramic views of Ghent.
Conclude Your Visit
Relax and reflect on your visit with a coffee at one of the accessible cafes in the bustling Korenmarkt area, just a stone"s throw from the church.
This wheelchair-friendly tour of St. Nicholas" Church not only offers a glimpse into Ghent"s religious past but does so with the utmost consideration for accessibility, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience for all visitors.
Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.
St. Bavo"s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
Why Visit?
Welcome to the majestic St. Bavo"s Cathedral, a beacon of history and spirituality in the heart of Ghent. This Gothic masterpiece isn"t just a treat for the eyes; it"s also accessible, ensuring that everyone can explore its wonders.
Getting There
St. Bavo"s Cathedral is centrally located at Sint-Baafsplein, easily reachable via public transport. If you’re using a wheelchair or mobile scooter, the best option is to take a tram or bus that stops near the cathedral. The most convenient stops are at Korenmarkt, just a short, flat walk away. For those driving, there are several parking spaces reserved for disabled visitors close to the cathedral.
Visiting the Cathedral
The main entrance is equipped with ramps, making it accessible for wheelchair users. Once inside, you’ll find that the nave and aisles are spacious and maneuverable. Accessible restrooms are available, ensuring comfort throughout your visit.
As you navigate through the cathedral, don"t miss the stunning altarpiece, *The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb* by the Van Eyck brothers. This masterpiece is visible from an accessible viewpoint, which provides an unobstructed view of the intricate details that make this artwork a pivotal piece in art history.
Interesting Facts
- St. Bavo"s Cathedral stands on the site of a previous chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist, dating back to the 10th century.
- The cathedral houses some of the most important works in Flemish history, including paintings, sculptures, and the crypt.
- The belfry of St. Bavo is one of the three medieval towers that define Ghent’s skyline, known as the "Three Towers".
After your visit, consider exploring the surrounding areas. The nearby streets are lined with cafes and shops that are mostly accessible, providing a perfect spot to relax and soak in the ambiance of this historic city.
Enjoy your visit to St. Bavo"s Cathedral, where history and accessibility come together seamlessly!
Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.
Graslei and Korenlei
Why Visit?
Accessible Adventure in Ghent: A Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Graslei and Korenlei
Ghent, a city known for its vibrant history and stunning architecture, offers an enchanting experience along the Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque streets lined by the Lys River. This wheelchair-friendly itinerary promises a seamless journey through Ghent’s medieval heart, blending accessibility with the allure of bygone days.
Starting Point: St. Michael’s Bridge
Begin your day at St. Michael’s Bridge. Accessible by public transport, the nearby stops are well-equipped with ramps and low-floor trams, ensuring a smooth ride from any part of the city. From here, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the Graslei and Korenlei - perfect for a memorable photo.
Graslei: A Historical Hub
Wheel your way down to Graslei, a street that boasts some of the city’s most historic buildings. Notably, the Cooremetershuys (Grain Weighers House) and the Guildhall of the Free Boatmen are standout sights. These buildings have step-free entrances, making them accessible for history enthusiasts on wheels.
Lunch by the Lys
For lunch, pick one of the many accessible riverside cafes along Graslei. Enjoy the local cuisine while soaking in the views of traditional guild houses reflecting on the calm waters.
Korenlei: Architectural Splendor
Post-lunch, cross the accessible Graslei bridge to Korenlei. Here, you’ll find equally impressive architecture, with buildings such as the Guildhall of the Grain Measurers and the Spijker, which have been adapted for accessibility. These structures tell tales of Ghent’s economic boom during the Middle Ages.
Leisurely Cruise
Cap off your day with a relaxing boat tour. Several companies offer wheelchair-accessible boats, allowing you to glide along the river, watching the city’s ancient beauty unfold from a unique vantage point.
Return
Head back to St. Michael’s Bridge via the accessible paths along the riverbank, reflecting on a day well spent in one of Belgium’s most charming cities.
Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.
Belfry and Lakenhalle (Bell Tower and Cloth Hall)
Why Visit?
Embark on an enchanting tour of the iconic Belfry and Lakenhalle in Ghent, seamlessly tailored for visitors using wheelchairs or mobile scooters. These historical jewels blend medieval architecture with accessibility, offering a glimpse into Belgium"s storied past.
Starting Point: Belfry of Ghent
Begin your adventure at the Belfry, the symbolic heart of Ghent, located at Sint-Baafsplein Square. Accessible by public transport, the closest tram stop is just a short, smooth roll away at Korenmarkt, serviced by lines 1 and 4. For those driving, several parking options are nearby, including the underground parking at Sint-Baafsplein.
The Belfry is fully accessible, equipped with an elevator that takes you up to the viewing platform, offering panoramic views of the city. This 14th-century bell tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Ghent’s civic pride and independence. Learn about its history and role through accessible multimedia displays. The highlight here is the original Roland bell, which has chimed through centuries.
Next Stop: Lakenhalle (Cloth Hall)
Adjacent to the Belfry, find the Lakenhalle - once the beating heart of Europe’s textile trade. Originally a bustling marketplace for cloth merchants, this 15th-century hall adjoins the Belfry, ensuring a hassle-free transition. The hall is accessible, with flat entrances and plenty of room to navigate.
As you explore, absorb the tales of wealth and economic power that once flowed through this hall, driving Ghent’s prosperity. The Cloth Hall, though simpler inside compared to its grand exterior, is a monument to the city"s medieval might and mercantile spirit.
Practical Tips
- Visit mid-week to avoid larger crowds.
- Check ahead for any scheduled maintenance on accessibility facilities.
- Restrooms with wheelchair access are available at both sites.
This tour not only celebrates Ghent’s architectural grandeur but also its commitment to accessibility, ensuring all visitors can experience its rich history and culture.
Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.