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Gold Trusted Service Award
Gold Trusted Service Award
Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
Rosette
Boating expertise since 1969
With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
Kompass
18 amazing destinations
Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
Boot
World’s largest fleet
We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
Rettungsboje
No boat license required
That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Kompass
    18 amazing destinations
    Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
  • Boot
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Rettungsboje
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Kompass
    18 amazing destinations
    Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
  • Boot
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Rettungsboje
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
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Blog
/5 Beautiful Cities Visit Belgium

5 Beautiful Canal Cities to visit in Belgium

November 21, 2019

Belgium is a country that comprises of many nations, languages and customs that had once made it the main centre of Western Europe. Over the centuries the country’s ideal location and wealth has led to many wars over its control. It is along its waterways that Belgium holds its richest stories of wealth, loss and power. Let’s take a look at 5 of the must-see stops along the Belgium’s grand waterways.

  1.        Bruges
  2.        Ghent
  3.        Oudernaarde
  4.        Kortrijk
  5.        Tournai

 

Bruges 

Bruges is an official UNESCO site and is home to numerous landmarks with historical significance. Bruges was once a cultural centre of religion, art and architecture. Today you can easily explore the city’s rich history, its impact on the continent of Europe and enjoy its more modern offerings. From shopping, tours, eating and wonderful festivals…Bruges is city that you do not want to miss out on.

bruges le boat

Ghent 

Ghent is the main highlight along your barging trip in Belgium. Ghent was one of the largest and most affluent cities in Europe during the medieval era. Ghent offers festivals, amazing food, art and beautiful scenery everywhere. Visit the Ghent Masterpiece at St. Bavos, explore the artsy Zebrastraat, enjoy browsing the Saint Jacobs flea market or wander the city at night.

ghent le boat

Oudenaarde 

This old town was once a thriving city during the medieval era of Flanders. The town was founded in 974, when a Roman fortification was erected as a defence against France. Originally named Ename, the town flourished into a city specialising in textile production, especially tapestries. The town is a wonderful testament to the thriving Flemish culture that once dominated the Flanders before the wars. Oudenaarde has a fantastic display of unique tapestries from the medieval era, amazing architecture and a brewery worth checking out.

oudernaarde le boat

Kortrijk 

The city is known for the famous ‘Battle of the Golden Spurs’ in 1302, where the community of Flemish residents of Kortrijk stood up against the French. The battle led to a victory for the Flemish, making this small town another treasure trove full of well reserved Flemish culture and art. Like many of the smaller cities, the Gothic styled architecture still defines the city skyline. Kortrijk is great for exploring on foot or by bicycle, as it is the largest car-free area in Belgium!

kortrijk le boat

 

Tournai 

Tournai is predominantly French speaking and has been handed back and forth as French territory over the centuries. One of the highlights is cruising along or cycling along the city’s historical promenades. The Pont des Torus is one of the oldest fort bridges from Tournai’s medieval era. Visit the iconic Notre Dame of Tournai, walk up the belfry to enjoy the views over the city and enjoy the superb collection of fine art at the museum.

tournai le boat