At a glance
Because of Covid-19, we'll probably have to spend our summer holidays in our own country. We give you around ten ideas to make the most of summer in Belgium.
Photo: "Le Tombeau du Géant", Botassart
In this article, our writer Alain Dierckx gets us dreaming of original trips and holidays in our own country.
"The coronavirus crisis is encouraging many Belgians to stay home and holiday in their own country. For them, it will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy the countless charms and beauties that make up Belgium's richness. \
Here are around ten ideas for original holidays or outings.
1. Hiking
Has lockdown got you moving more? You're not the only one! It would be a shame to stop this healthy new habit as soon as lockdown is lifted. Discover the many hiking trails and paths in Belgium or take a long, original walk.
You could also join a walking club. This gives you access to a wide choice of interesting and educational walks, with different distances and difficulty levels. You stay fit while making new friends. Nothing but benefits!
Also read our article on the GR trails.
2. A cycling holiday
Now that you're back in shape, it's time to move on to an active cycling holiday with the whole family, or just as a couple. There are options that let you cycle from one hotel to the next while your luggage is transported for you.
You could also choose a well-located hotel from which several lovely cycling routes set off. The type of route is entirely up to you: difficulty level, number of kilometres, electric bike or not, etc. So many possibilities!
3. Visit one of our many historic art towns
Belgium has many wonderful historic art towns. Visit them all, big and small, and immerse yourself in their glorious past. Tell your children the rich history hiding behind the monumental architecture. Explore the old towns and don't hesitate to cross the language border.
4. A day trip to a tourist attraction, zoo or theme park
Maybe your last visit to a tourist attraction dates back to your school days? Think of places like the Han caves, the butterfly garden and the Zwin nature reserve in Knokke, Bokrijk, the Euro Space Center in Transinne, Technopolis in Mechelen, the Atomium in Brussels, the Belgian coast, etc... or a zoo or theme park.
It's time to rediscover them and turn them into a lovely day out. You'll of course find them online and on the tourism websites of the regions, provinces and towns...
And while you're at it, take the opportunity to discover and taste the local culinary specialities! You'll be surprised...
5. Your friend the horse
Do you love horses and can't do without them? Or do you want to use these holidays to get to know them better? Treat yourself and your children to an unforgettable equestrian holiday at a riding centre. For a week, you'll follow the horses' rhythm. Saddling up, caring for the horse and the stables, dressage, trotting and galloping... A whole new world opens up to you.
6. Exploring by horse-drawn caravan
Can a holiday be any slower or more relaxed? Rent a horse-drawn caravan and set off to discover the small roads of our regions. It's the ideal way to unwind!
7. A fishing weekend
Do you love meditating by lakes and rivers? And finding out what's hiding in them? Book a fishing weekend with your friends or your children. Rent a chalet or a holiday cottage and grill the day's catch on the barbecue in the evening. Nothing but happiness and pride!
8. A gourmet meal at a (starred) restaurant
Do you love fine food and don't feel like driving home after a good meal? All over Belgium, you'll find gourmet restaurants offering a package deal (dinner and overnight stay). As soon as lockdown ends, these establishments will be delighted to welcome you!
Choose a good restaurant in a region you don't yet know and take the opportunity to explore it during the day. At sunset, sit down to eat and treat yourself.
9. Spend the night in a castle or a truly unique setting
Why not book a night in one of the many castles in Wallonia or Flanders? Enjoy the romantic setting of such a place. Explore the area during the day and play lord or lady of the manor in the evening after a delicious dinner.
Would you like to spend the evening somewhere even more original? It's possible, even here in our own country. More and more options are opening up, such as sleeping in a bubble or in a treehouse.
10. Try glamping
Camping not your cup of tea? Why not try glamping, the superlative version of camping. Stay and sleep in luxurious, fully comfortable tents. A unique experience!
Also read: Have you heard of glamping?
One last piece of advice: whatever you do, follow the health measures and mobility rules set by the authorities. That way, you'll also be looking out for one another.
And if you run into trouble on the road, remember that Redion is there to help you...
Also read:
- A weekend at the seaside with the children
Note: the links included in this article are for informational purposes only. You will of course find plenty of alternatives online.
