Cycling from Brussels to Bruges

Cycling information

Day 1: Arrive in Brussels

Arrive early and head for the Grande Place, the Manneken Pis or one of many other landmarks in this delightful city where culture vultures, shopaholics, gourmets and gourmands all feel at home.
Overnight Courtyard by Marriott Hotel 4*, Brussels (breakfast included).

Day 2: Brussels to Mechelen (65km/40.4mi)

After one last tour of the Grande Place, leave Brussels behind and cycle on an easterly route through the southeast suburbs of Tervuren and the famous Aftrikamuseum to Erps, Kampenhout and on to Mechelen, home of the 13th century St Rumbold's Cathedral and its tower with 360-degree views of the city. Ride on tree-lined country lanes, along a river and through meadows.
Overnight Hotel Ve 4*, Mechelen (breakfast included).

Day 3: Mechelen to Antwerp (45km/28.0mi)

On today's route, enjoy the successful blend of Art Nouveau, neo-Gothic, neo-Empire and Art Deco at the Ursuline Institute of Our Lady of Wavre. Here, the winter garden is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau, an ode to nature, springtime and light! Continue through the countryside to Duffel on the River Nete, Mortsel and Berchem. Visit the island Fort in Mortsel (one of eight Brialmont Forts that made up the defensive line of Antwerp). Discover Antwerp, a city with a long tradition with beer as well as antiques and curios, vintage fashion and diamonds.
Overnight Park Inn by Radisson 3*, Antwerp (breakfast included).

Day 4: Antwerp to Dendermonde (55km/34.2mi)

Follow the River Scheldt for most of the route today. Visit 10th century Wissekerk Castle, another of Antwerp's fortifications. Further along the river, cross by ferry, then continue atop the river dike to De Zilverreiger, a regional museum focused on preserving knowledge about local trades and crafts that once flourished: basket weaving, river fishery, cooperage (barrel making), flax processing and clog making.
Overnight Abalona B&B 4*, Demdermonde (breakfast included).

Day 5: Dendermonde to Ghent (45km/28.0mi)

Today's route continues on the Scheldt river banks, cycling past a string of Flemish villages and towns. Laarne Castle is a great place for a break before continuing to Ghent. The Old Town of Ghent is like an open-air museum. It is also a UNESCO Creative City of Music. The music scene here is thriving. Festivals, musical institutions, the carillon, concerts, students of music having a sing-song on the quays... music is everywhere. After dark the ambiance is magical, thanks to the town's ingenious street lighting.
Overnight Ghent River Hotel 4*, Ghent (breakfast included).

Day 6: Ghent to Kortrijk (60km/37.3mi)

Today you will immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape around the river Leie. The picturesque region's green landscape with its extensive forests is a true natural paradise and has inspired countless artists. Neoclassical castles and small artists' villages line the way, and you can also admire the works of the painters in the local museums. Your stage destination Kortrijk has the charm of a big city with the cosiness of a village. In the centre, you will find a mix of modern architecture, centuries-old cultural heritage and passionate creativity.
Overnight Parkhotel 4*, Kortrijk (breakfast included).

Day 7: Kortrijk to Bruges (60km/37.3mi)

Yet another lovely route through the flat Flemish countryside. On the last stretch, follow the Ghent-Bruges canal. It dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest in the country and together with its towpath verges, it forms a green corridor that is important for biodiversity. Your final destination of Bruges is a truly charming town with its cobbled streets and squares, canals, medieval-looking buildings and a fairy-tale ambiance.
Overnight NH Hotel 4*, Bruges (breakfast included).

Day 8: Depart Bruges

After breakfast, wave goodbye to Bruges.