{"id":57745,"date":"2024-11-09T11:52:01","date_gmt":"2024-11-09T10:52:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/?p=57745"},"modified":"2024-11-20T08:26:27","modified_gmt":"2024-11-20T07:26:27","slug":"visit-belgium-sustainable-travel-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2024\/11\/visit-belgium-sustainable-travel-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Visit Belgium: A Sustainable Travel Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A small country on the North Sea<\/strong>, Belgium<\/strong> is a unique crossroads of cultures and a perfect destination for lovers of art and nature. What makes this country so fascinating is its variety: three regions, three language communities, stunning landscapes both on land and at sea, eclectic architecture, and a rich and diverse gastronomy. Join us to explore the must-see highlights of this splendid destination with our sustainable travel guide to Belgium!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to Visit: Our Favorite Spots<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Grand
Grand Place in Brussels, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

We begin with Brussels<\/a><\/strong>, the magnificent Belgian capital<\/strong>. A sustainable<\/strong> city<\/strong> with revolutionary architecture, it will charm you with its vibrant energy and iconic attractions. Start with the majestic Grand<\/strong> Place<\/strong>, surrounded by stunning historical buildings and covered galleries. Don\u2019t miss the Royal Palace<\/strong> and the iconic Manneken-Pis statue<\/strong>, a symbol of the city\u2019s mischievous spirit. Immerse yourself in art at the Ren\u00e9 Magritte Museum<\/strong>, which houses over 200 works by the painter, as well as the famous Royal Museum<\/strong>s of Fine Arts of Belgium. Not only the capital of Belgium but also a recognized capital of comics<\/strong>: at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, you can admire original comic book pages and discover the history of the Ninth Art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"alleys
Charming alleys in Brussels, photo by Camilla Frara<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Just an hour by train from Brussels, the medieval city of Bruges<\/strong> awaits you. Explore it on foot to lose yourself in its charming streets and discover its main squares<\/strong>, the Burg and the Markt. The latter is also home to the Belfry of Bruges, with its famous carillon of 47 bells that ring out across the city. Alternatively, take a boat tour of Bruges. As you glide along the canals, admire the facades of the historic buildings lining the water, creating a picturesque setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Bruges
Bruges and its canals, photo by Camilla Frara<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In the province of Walloon Brabant, don\u2019t miss the town of Villers-la-Ville<\/strong>. This small village is home to the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey<\/strong>, partially abandoned after the French Revolution<\/strong>. The abbey is also known for the lush nature that surrounds it, making it a true haven of peace. Take the opportunity to recharge and enjoy some hiking in the great outdoors!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Ruins
Ruins of the Villers-la-Ville Abbey, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Heading up towards Flanders<\/strong>, let yourself be enchanted by the city of Ghent, a gem with a rich historical past. Among its must-see sites, be sure to visit the famous Saint Bavo’s Cathedral<\/strong>, or just across from it, the majestic Ghent Belfry<\/strong>. During your visit, also stop by the Castle of the Counts of Flanders<\/strong>. This impressive medieval fortress, overlooking the canal, will leave you speechless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The
Gand, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another iconic city that is definitely worth a visit is Antwerp<\/strong>, the economic<\/strong> heart of Belgium. A dynamic city, famous for its port and vibrant arts scene. Admire the architecture of the old town and be captivated by the Grand-Place and the Cathedral of Our Lady<\/strong>. Also visit the Diamond District<\/strong>, renowned worldwide as the center of the diamond trade. Lastly, for art lovers, the Rubens House<\/strong> is a true gem that should not be missed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Aerial
Aerial view of Antwerp, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Slow and Sustainable Itineraries to Explore Belgium<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What sustainable travel guide would be complete without slow itineraries to discover Belgium responsibly? Indeed, this country offers unforgettable landscapes, best appreciated by using eco-friendly <\/a>transportation such as biking<\/strong>, trams<\/strong>, or walking<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Ostend
Ostend and Zwin Nature Park, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The North Sea Cycle Route<\/strong> is a section of EuroVelo 12 that stretches along the beautiful Belgian coastline for about 70 km. Enjoy the beauty of the Flemish<\/strong> coastline<\/strong> and stop in some of the most picturesque seaside villages. Among them, don\u2019t miss the seaside resort of Ostend<\/strong>, known for its stunning beaches and rich architectural heritage, or Nieuwpoort<\/strong>, famous for the monument dedicated to King Albert<\/strong>. Another must-see along the route is the Zwin Nature Park in Knokke-Heist<\/strong>, a biodiversity oasis that is home to thousands of birds year-round. Finally, make sure to visit the coastal village of De Haan<\/strong>, known for its elegant Belle \u00c9poque-style houses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"View
View of Namur and Dinant, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you prefer to explore the Belgian countryside<\/strong>, we recommend the Via Romea Francigena<\/strong>, which crosses six European countries and all the regions of Belgium! You can follow the route that connects Namur to Dinant over a 30-kilometer stretch. Whether on foot or by bike, stroll along the Meuse River<\/strong> and admire the stunning mountainous landscapes of the Ardennes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Bayehon
Bayehon Waterfall in autumn, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Belgium is rich in natural attractions to explore slowly, with hiking trails immersed in greenery. For example, in Wallonia<\/strong>, head to the breathtaking Bayehon<\/strong> Waterfall<\/strong>. By following a 12-kilometer route, you\u2019ll experience the wonders of the forest and river, eventually reaching the second-largest waterfall in Belgium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click here<\/a> to discover more easy hiking trails to explore the country at a leisurely pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guide to the Best Local Culinary Delights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During your trip to Belgium, you won’t be able to resist the country’s culinary<\/strong> delights<\/strong>. Where to begin this gastronomic adventure, if not with fries<\/strong>? Crispy and golden to perfection, they are a true must-try. Twice-fried, they pair wonderfully with mussels and fries (moules-frites<\/em>) or a delicious dish of Flemish beef stew<\/strong> (carbonade flamande<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Local
Belgian fries and Flemish beef stew, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Next, let yourself be tempted by waterzooi<\/strong>, a comforting dish made with chicken and winter vegetables, perfect for warming up during the colder months. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try stoemp<\/strong>, a Flemish delight made of mashed potatoes and vegetables such as carrots, leeks, onions, spinach, or even the famous Brussels sprouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Local
Stoemp and Brussels sprouts, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And for dessert? Belgian waffles<\/strong>, often served with chocolate, are famous worldwide. You can enjoy them anywhere, whether in caf\u00e9s, street stands, or at festivals. Be sure to try both varieties<\/strong>: Brussels waffles, crispy and light, and Li\u00e8ge waffles, soft and sweet. Spice lovers will also delight in the famous speculoos<\/strong> cookies<\/strong>. These cinnamon and clove-flavored biscuits are especially popular during the holiday season, shaped like Santa Claus, but you can enjoy them year-round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Local
Brussels waffle and speculoos, photo via Canva Pro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Finally, don’t forget to accompany your meal with a delicious Belgian beer<\/strong>, which is part of UNESCO’s<\/a> Intangible Cultural Heritage!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sustainable Stays: Glamping and Eco-friendly Bed & Breakfasts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Eco-friendly
Eco-friendly cabins, Domaine des Trois Tilleuls<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This guide aims to provide you with a journey that is both enjoyable and sustainable<\/strong> in Belgium. Environmental respect starts with the choice of your accommodation. On Ecobnb, you’ll find many sustainable lodging options<\/a><\/strong>. Whether you choose an eco-hotel<\/strong>, a glamping<\/strong> experience, or a rural<\/strong> guesthouse<\/strong>, you can contribute to responsible and eco-friendly tourism without sacrificing comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In conclusion, this sustainable travel guide to Belgium invites you to discover the treasures of this fascinating country while respecting<\/strong> the planet<\/strong>. Belgium is the perfect destination, with its wonderful blend of nature and urbanism. Enjoy its riches and explore the most incredible places it has to offer. Have a good trip! <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

A small country on the North Sea, Belgium is a unique crossroads of cultures and a perfect destination for lovers of art and nature. What makes this country so fascinating is its variety: three regions, three language communities, stunning landscapes both on land and at sea, eclectic architecture, and a rich and diverse gastronomy. Join […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":189,"featured_media":57746,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[2],"tags":[2148,2081,2716,2630],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nVisit Belgium: A Sustainable Travel Guide - Ecobnb<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Do you want to explore Belgium? 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