Are you delving into the history of war or do you plan on paying an educational visit to one of our many cities? Have a look below to find out which locations are worth visiting:
Ypres
Ypres is also known as the city of cats. During the Middle Ages, live cats were thrown from the belfry as part of folklore. Today, those living specimens are fortunately replaced by stuffed animals.
In Ypres, you can not only go for a beautiful city walk on the ramparts, but you can also discover our historical war legacy at the In Flanders Fields Museum. At the atmospheric Grote Markt (market square), you will find numerous cheerful pubs and restaurants.
Passage of Death & Yser Tower
The Passage of Death and the Yser Tower are silent witnesses of the horror of World War I. While paying a visit to the memorials, you will learn a lot about our war history. The brand-new provincialdomainIJzerboomgaard is located nearby. There, you can go for a beautiful walk or visit the playground and petting zoo with your children.
Diksmuide
Our guesthouse is located less than three kilometres from the centre of Diksmuide. The town hall, the beguinage, the Vismarkt (market square) and the St. Nicholas Church are highly recommended, as well as the Kleine Dijk and Grote Dijk (the small and large dyke), the old Bloemmolens (flour mills) and the marina.
The Blankaart
In nature reserve De Blankaart, you can go for a beautiful hike and or bike ride, but you go there for birdwatching and boat trips with a whispering boat as well. The area is located in the Yser valley and is home to many indigenousanimals species.
The Cackling Chickens Museum
Would you like to learn everything there is to know about chickens and birds in a playful way? Then stop by at ‘t Kakelend Kippenmuseum in Diksmuide. The educational park includes an impressive petting zoo, a playground and –barn and a cosy cafeteria. On summer days, you can enjoy pancakes, homemade ice cream and fresh farm milk.
German military forest cemetery
Art and gravestones meet at the Duits militaire boskerkhof in Vladslo. The deafening silence is captivating.
Torhout
Wijnendale Castle, Ravenhof Castle and the Mustard Museum are just a few of the many attractions at picturesque Torhout. You can find more information on www.torhout.be.
Bruges
Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the historic centre of Bruges is undeniably a unique experience. Stroll through the many streets and alleys, marvel at the mighty Belfry or relax in the Beguinage. You can find more information at www.brugge.be.
Klerken
In the sleepy village of Klerken, you can spot the Peace Mill, a windmill (and also a ruin) that commemorates the victims of the First World War. The St. Laurentius Church and St. Christoffel Church are also worth paying a visit.
Tyne Cot Cemetery
The least you can say about the British military cemeteryTyne Cot Cemetery in Passendale is that it leaves a strong impression. The endless rows of white graves make up the sad scars across the landscape, but are simultaneously a serene tribute to the countless war victims.
Lo
In the medieval town ofLo – part of Lo-Reninge – you can visit the Caesar tree. Legend has it that Julius Caesar himself made a stop there. In the biscuit factory of Jules De Strooper, you can learn about the production process of their famous biscuits during a guided tour.
Veurne
At the historical market square of Veurne, you can have a snack or drink on one of the many terraces. Be sure to visit the Bakery Museum, where you can experience the evolution of the baking profession first-hand.
Animal shelter De Zonnegloed
Over 400 indigenous and exotic wild animals are currently housed and cared for at animal rescue centre De Zonnegloedin Oostvleteren. The caretakers are passionate about ensuring a better life for neglected wildlife animals.