Tag Archives: beer

Beauvoorde Castle near Veurne

Castles, Crafts, Flanders, Museums, Villages 2 Comments

Beauvoorde Castle - looking 200 years older than it actually is

From the outside, Beauvoorde Castleappears to be a perfect example of a 17th century castle. But don’t be deceived. It was actually created in the late 19th century through the romantic vision of one man. In 1875, wealthy nobleman Arthur Merghelynck fell in love with a ruined castle in the tiny village of Wulveringem, West Flanders. He was attracted by its picturesque setting, but also by its potential to fulfil his grand scheme.

Merghelynck was an incurable romantic who resented the increasing industrialisation of Flanders. He wanted to cherish the atmosphere, style and romance of the past, and in particular the 17th century. In the remains of Beauvoorde Castle he saw the possibility to realise his dream. Continue reading →

Pottery workshop in Westmalle

Buildings, Crafts, Flanders 1 Comment

Here’s an idea for an evening out with a difference. A cosy evening meal – with your friends – in a pottery studio – and during your meal, you and your friends each take a turn on the potter’s wheel! How’s that for something unusual and maybe even unique?

Such a fun yet educational evening can take place at the PTZE Porcelain Studio in Westmalle, 20 km north-east of Antwerp. If you’re interested, you need to get together with six friends, family members or colleagues. After reservation, you turn up on the specified evening, and sit down and enjoy a leisurely and tasty four-course meal with appropriate drinks. One by one you will be invited to have a go on the potter’s wheel and receive professional tuition from PTZE Porcelain’s owner Anja Meussen. Each of you will be helped to turn out two pots, which three weeks later (after they’ve been baked in the oven) you can come and pick up and take home with you. Continue reading →

Exploring the Molignée Valley

Ardennes, Castles, Country Walks, Forests, Rivers & Canals, Wallonia Leave a comment

A day in the Molignée Valley, south of Namur, could incorporate a country walk, a visit to the historic ruins of Montaigle Castle, a tour of the Abbey of Maredsous, a visit to a snail farm, and a trip on a rail-bike.

To reach the Molignée Valley, take the E411 until junction 19, and then the N937 through Purnode to Yvoir. Here you can stop at the tourist office and pick up the relevant maps and information.

There are numerous walks through the Molignée Valley. One of my favourites starts from the car park just past the Relais de Montaigle (ideal for an early snack) by the 7 km sign on the N971. The car park is marked Montaigle Castle. It takes you through forests, meadows, along the River Flavion and to the impressive ruins of Montaigle Castle, which you can visit for a small fee (4 EUR). Continue reading →