Tag Archives: Belgium

Things to do in Bruges

Posted on by

One day in Bruges is enough to see the main sights and soak up the picturesque setting. Talking to friends about my weekend trip, it quickly became clear that Bruges is the most popular Belgian destination. This Unesco recognised area is known for its historic city centre and the idyllic canal-side beauty, the abundance of chocolate and beer and featured recently on film: ‘In Bruges’, a homage to the destination.

To stay

Hotel De Tuilerieën – this is the luxurious abode where the film star cast of In Bruges stayed. The building is an elegant patrician house from the 15th century that has been transformed into a contemporary hotel. Hotel De Tuilerieën counts 45 unique rooms and overlooks the canals of Bruges.

To eat

A’Qi – There are plenty of places in town to have the speciality moules frites, but if you want something more special I recommend A’Qi. A few miles out of town this charming little eatery serves immaculate Michelin starred food. Karen Keygnaert is the leading lady in the kitchen producing pretty dishes with an Asian twist. We loved the Sunday set lunch menu, highlights included langoustine with Yuzu sauce, duck with Japanese citrus fruit and the most delightful dessert of blood orange, cheesecake and peach.

To drink

De Halve Maan Brewery – it would be easy to lose track of time in this authentic beer house. Take a guided tour round the brewery and learn about the old-brewing process in the museum before trying the delicious brew.

De Proeverie – when you are weary of sightseeing pop in to De Proeverie for hot chocolate. They get their chocolate from the shop across the road, Chocolatier Sukerbuyc and make a delectable drink served with freshly whipped cream for extra comfort.

To see

Basilica of the Holy Blood – This tiny little church has amazing artwork and memorable stained glass windows but is most famous for housing a phial claimed to contain a cloth stained with Jesus’ blood.

Michelangelo’s Madonna – this unique beautiful sculpture is on show inside the Church of our Lady. After wandering around the decorative church head for the cordoned off museum where the masterful marble figures are found.

To do

Climb the belfry on the Grote Markt – you will have to queue for this tourist attraction but it is worth the wait. The impressive 12th century medieval bell tower has become a symbol for the city of Bruges. After climbing the 366 narrow steps to the top you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the city while listening to the bells played by carillon (hand keyboard).

Float along the Gronerei (green canal) – a walk down the canals in Bruges is one of the most romantic strolls you could have, but if you fancy a float head for one of the boat tours which cost 7 euros for a 30 minute ride. Take in the scenery whilst relaxing on the rippling water.

Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with Eurostar.

·         Eurostar operates up to 9 daily services from London St Pancras International to Brussels with return fares from £69.

·         Tickets to any Belgium station start from £79.

·         Fastest London-Brussels journey time is 2 hours.

·         Tickets are available from eurostar.com or 03432 186 186.

The Dominican Hotel, Brussels

Posted on by

The Dominican Hotel contradicts many one’s assumptions about Brussels and the hotels there. The venue has a focus on design, art and history and is set on the site of a 15th century Dominican abbey, which later was home to the famous neoclassical painter Jacques-Louis David.

Located in the centre of Brussels, this accommodation is part of the Design Hotel group featuring the ideas of the renowned Amsterdam brand FGStijl. The interior is a modern renovation and revitalisation of the original architecture, specifically the cloisters. There are 150 rooms to choose from, a popular buzzy bar and three meeting rooms to fulfil the needs of business guests. The hotel is a short walk from the main station, and moments away from the shops and eateries of Brussels.

The rooms are centred round a quiet inner courtyard. Walking to our room, I noticed a fully equipped gym (ideal for jet-lagged visitors) and striking photography and artwork on the walls. We soon arrived at our door, and stepped inside to find a dark grey and green interior. Our double room was small but well arranged, the decor felt a little dated but was comfortable and had everything we needed for a night away from home.

The patterned carpet is a motif which runs through the hotel in different colour schemes. Aside from this decoration surprisingly I couldn’t spot many other design features in the room. Alongside the giant bed there was a coffee machine, TV and desk. A petite bathroom was functional but in good working order with a super powerful shower and the Spa Collection toiletries.

As it was our first morning in Belgium we couldn’t resist a plate of sugary waffles for breakfast. Along with a cup of coffee and fresh exotic fruit, we were set up for a day of sightseeing and chocolate shopping ahead!

More information and book a stay here.

Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with Eurostar.

·         Eurostar operates up to 9 daily services from London St Pancras International to Brussels with return fares from £69.

·         Tickets to any Belgium station start from £79.

·         Fastest London-Brussels journey time is 2 hours.

·         Tickets are available from eurostar.com or 03432 186 186.

Customers travelling by Eurostar can enjoy a range of benefits including:

•         Seamless city centre to city centre travel, with stations located in the heart of our destinations

•         Fast and convenient check-in – passengers are requested to arrive only 30 minutes before departure

•         The extra baggage allowance you get on Eurostar vs planes (Eurostar offers each person 2 bags/suitcases and 1 piece hand luggage)

•         No queues or baggage reclaim upon arrival – simply take your bag with you on board

•         Comfort and space on board to work or unwind

Hot on the Highstreet Week 246 – Shopping in Brussels

Posted on by

I’ve just spent a lovely weekend in Belgium, here are my favourite shops in Brussels for fancy food and fabulous fashion… and a little stationery store that I can’t resist mentioning!

Maison Dandoy – we stumbled across this charming little biscuit shop, also recommended by knowledgeable blogger Jess on Thames. A sweet institution established in 1829, Dandoy produces irresistable oven-fresh biscuits. Coincidentally the original shop is found in Brussels on rue au Beurre (Butter street).

L’Antichambre – an unmissable boutique on the Brussels shopping scene. Owner Anne Pascale has created a sensual shop with the highest quality scents from Grasse, and will work with clients to create their very own bespoke fragrance. I was lucky enough to make my own, which I named Resolument Moderne including Chocolate, Spicy Pepper and Fig ingredients. L’Antichambre also produce a range of beautiful scented candles, try the unique flavour Le tomate verte.

Mary – this pretty feminine shop has packaging that is just as lovely as the chocolates. There are now a few branches of this artisan brand, all stocking the signature illustrated boxes filled with seriously delicious treats. My favourite chocolate shop in Brussels, a box of Mary chocolates would be a memorable gift for someone special.

Hunting and Collecting – this spacious, cleanly arranged shop stocks a range of labels, which are rotated regularly, so you are bound to find a new gem every time you visit. The basement hosts art exhibitions whilst upstairs you can browse the tailored clothes, and lust after the design objects and striking accessories.

Pierre Marcolini – when you ask the locals in Belgium for the best chocolate, most will point towards the haute chocolatier, Pierre Marcolini. The shop is more like a museum with immaculately presented chocolates everywhere you look. I loved the coloured heart collection, which are almost too pretty to demolish!

La Fabrika – Opened by Kelly Claessens in 2010 this design haven stocks a beautifully curated collection of classic furniture, unusual books and chic accessories that would complement any home. La Fabrika is a trendsetter in Brussels and is popular with the stylish Bohemian locals.

Le Typographe – I have been excited about my trip to this stationery emporium for months, so entering the doors of the perfectly ordered shop was a joy. Alongside the carefully hand-picked pens, pencils and other writing paraphernalia Le Typographe stock their own brand, often neon, cards, envelopes and notebooks. An atelier of the finest stationery, I wanted it all.