Join us for a longer summer holiday that takes you from the coast to the heart of this beautiful country, with stunning architecture and so much more, plus two days to enjoy at leisure in the fabulous coastal city of Ostend!
Day One
We depart South Wales early in the morning and head to Dover for a lunchtime ferry crossing to Northern France. From here, it’s just a 90-minute drive to our base for the week, Ostend! We hope to arrive at the Ostend Hotel around 5 pm (local time) to check in for your six-night stay, with continental breakfast included each morning.
*If you wish to dine at the hotel's restaurant https://www.hotelostend.be/en/faciliteiten/339/restaurant-and-bar then this will need to be pre-booked in advance; without a pre-booking then availability to dine in cannot be guaranteed
Ostend's fabulous white sandy beaches, glorious promenade with a mix of Époque townhouses, tiled galleries, and brand-new buildings make the seafront one of the reasons locals love this place so much.
If you want to discover the city, you can hire anything from an electric scooter to pedal carts, which can take up to 8 people at a time. Alternatively, if you prefer to be driven, then a horse-drawn carriage is for you!
From selfie spots that can see the sunrise over the marina, or sunset over the sea, to the fisherman's harbour where the locals pick up freshly landed plaice or prawns, to live Flemish music at the Spanish Inn (1729 ), to beach bars on the sands ( June to September), there's plenty to explore.
And with art exhibitions, boat trips, the coastline tram, nightlife on Langestraat and some of the finest places to eat ...the city may make you return time and time again
Day Two – Brugge
The fairytale city of Brugge is undoubtedly on most people's must-visit list, and it's not difficult to see why; historic, cultural, romantic, yet quirky and full of fun too, Brugge welcomes everyone.
For first time visitors to the city then we always recommend a boat trip out on the city's canal as an excellent introduction; hop on for fabulous views, complete with commentary from a local who'll tell you all about the Lovers Bridge and Lake of Love to the extreme beer that's still brewed in the heart of the city.
Traditional museums and galleries are plentiful, but if you want something different, then the museum of torture may well be up your street; and while you're there, pop next door to see the wall of beer! With over 1200 varieties.. You might want to make sure you eat something first!
For food lovers, Brugge has plenty of fabulous places to lunch, such as L'Estaminet and Ribs N Beer (self-explanatory!), which are popular with the locals. Alternatively, you could opt for a portion of Moules Frites, the national dish of Belgium. If that's not enough, there are fantastic chocolate shops everywhere - always ask for a sample!
Put all this together with the incredible architecture of Markt Square with its imposing Belfry Tower and Town Hall, and don't miss the Roman Catholic Basilica; an incredible place where you can hear a pin drop!
Day Three – Free in Ostend
As we’ve mentioned, the city has so much to offer, but if you need pointing in the right direction, then ask your driver, who’ll be more than happy to help.
Day Four - Brussels
Today we head to the Belgian capital city of BRUSSELS, which is undoubtedly one of Europe’s premier cities. Since the mid-20th century, Brussels has become a thriving and cosmopolitan city, yet it has retained its incredible architecture, as seen in spots like the Grand Place. This 17th-century central square is renowned for its stunning beauty, surrounded by guild houses, City Hall, and the Maison du Roi. Just off the square, you'll find the Manneken Pis ( who has over 900 different costumes!), fantastic restaurants, watering holes, and a host of museums —all near fabulous shopping arcades and high street stores. Brussels is a city that won't disappoint.
Day Five - Ghent & Sluis
Another full day out as we take you to two popular destinations; Ghent is around 40 minute drive from Ostend and is similar to Brugge - a medieval marvel on a slightly less busy scale. With beautiful buildings, museums and galleries, along with the imposing ‘Castle of the Counts’ looking over the town…today it houses the museum of torture!
The afternoon brings another country…Holland! We cross the border at the closest point from Belgium to the lovely town of Sluis. Simply meaning ‘Lock Gate’, this charming place has all the cafes and restaurants you could want, but with little Dutch twists thrown in, including a windmill! We then take you back through the Belgian countryside to relax once more at our Ostend base.
Day Six – Free in Ostend
Another day to enjoy in Ostend - or you may be more adventurous and take a tram ride along the coast to one of Ostend's nearby seaside resorts, such as Blankenberge or Middelkerke?
Day Seven
Not too early a start as we take you back through Northern France to board our channel crossing for home, arriving home late evening.
We have a number of pick up points available for this break as shown below...
Located in the heart of Ostend, just set back from the historic harbour and beach, the Ostend Hotel is just a 5 minute walk to the main shopping areas. All 110 comfortable bedrooms are simply furnished and equipped with a TV and hairdryer. The restaurant is modern and stylish and there is a cosy, modern bar. There is also a sauna and gym. The hotel has a lift to all floors and offers free WIFI.
*If you wish to dine at the hotel's restaurant https://www.hotelostend.be/en/faciliteiten/339/restaurant-and-bar then this will need to be pre-booked in advance; without a pre-booking then availability to dine in cannot be guaranteed
The following room types are available at the hotel:
