Belgium

Belgium: The charming heart of Europe

Belgium, a country of remarkable beauty and complexity, lies at the heart of Europe and is far more than just the centre of European diplomacy. It is a country where old and new mix, where medieval towns lie side by side with modern metropolises. Covering an area of just over 30,000 square kilometres, Belgium has an astonishing variety of cultural treasures, ranging from the picturesque splendour of Bruges to the contemporary vitality of Brussels.

Dutch, French and German influences blend into a unique cultural mosaic. Belgium's history is characterised by artistic brilliance, which manifests itself in the works of Van Eyck, Rubens and Magritte. The country's culinary scene is just as diverse - from decadent chocolates and savoury waffles to over 1,000 types of beer. Belgium's natural landscapes range from the rolling hills of the Ardennes to the windswept beaches of the North Sea. This small country with its rich history, lively cities and unrivalled hospitality is a European gem waiting to be discovered.

Climate and weather

Spring: Spring is often mild with changeable weather. It can be a good time for sailing, but you should be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.

Summer: Summers are usually warm, but not too hot, with temperatures around 20°C. Rainfall is frequent, but there are also many sunny days that offer ideal conditions for sailing.

Autumn: Autumn can be cool and wet, with stormy conditions that can challenge experienced sailors. Sailing at this time of year requires close monitoring of the weather forecast.

Winter:Winter temperatures can be cold and sailing conditions are less optimal. Icy winds and rough seas can occur and many sailors prefer not to use their boats during this time.

Sailing conditions

The Belgian coast is relatively short and is strongly influenced by the tides. The currents can be strong and the weather can change quickly, which requires good planning and local knowledge.

Winds: The winds on the Belgian coast can be strong all year round, but especially in autumn and winter. In summer, the winds are milder and sailing conditions are more pleasant.
The tides: The tidal currents can make sailing conditions difficult, especially for beginners. It is important to know the tides and plan your navigation accordingly.

Waves: The North Sea can produce rough waves, especially outside the summer months, which make sailing more challenging.

Getting there

Airports: Most international visitors arrive at Brussels Airport, from where the coastal region is easily accessible. Other airports are Antwerp or Liège, depending on where the yacht charter tour starts.

Transport to the marina: There are various ways to get from the airport to the marina: by train, bus, taxi or hire car. Some charter companies also offer a transfer service.

Belgium, a small country in Western Europe, is strategically located between France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. In the west, Belgium opens up to the North Sea, giving the country a coastline of around 67 kilometres. Although the coastline is relatively short, it provides access to some of Europe's most important shipping routes and serves as a gateway to the wide world of sailing and maritime activities.

The entire Belgian coastline is flat and characterised by long sandy beaches, dunes and a number of seaside resorts, which are particularly popular in the summer months. It is also home to important harbours such as Zeebrugge and Ostend, which are important for both commercial shipping and leisure activities such as sailing and yachting. Behind the coast, the Belgian landscape stretches across flat, fertile plains, which merge into the wooded hills and valleys of the Ardennes in the south and east of the country.

For sailors, Belgium's geographical location provides an excellent opportunity to explore the many waterways, from leisurely coastal cruises to challenging crossings of the neighbouring North Sea waters and beyond. The proximity to other European countries and cultures makes the Belgian coast an attractive starting point for international sea voyages and cruises.

Flanders

The coastal region of Flanders, the northern part of Belgium, is rich in art, history and cultural diversity. With cities such as Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent, known for their medieval architecture, canals and cobbled streets, Flanders offers a unique insight into European heritage. Antwerp, the diamond centre of the world, is also known for its thriving fashion scene. Bruges, often referred to as the Venice of the North, entices visitors with its romantic charm. Ghent surprises with a perfect blend of historical splendour and vibrant culture. Flanders is also the home of Flemish Expressionism, whose influences can be discovered in numerous museums and galleries. The Flemish cuisine, famous for its chocolates, beers and seafood, rounds off the experience.

Wallonia

Wallonia in the south of Belgium is a region of natural beauty and rustic charm. The Ardennes, a densely forested hilly region, offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling and kayaking. Historic cities such as Liège and Namur enchant visitors with their picturesque old towns, fortresses and castles. Wallonia is also known for its thermal baths, especially in Spa, which gave the word "spa" its name. The region has a rich industrial past, which can be seen in cities such as Charleroi and the unique boat lifts of the Canal du Centre. Walloon cuisine reflects the region's rural tradition, with hearty dishes that go perfectly with the local beers.

Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union, is a cosmopolitan metropolis known for its multicultural charm, exceptional architecture and lively markets. The Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just one of the city's many architectural jewels. Brussels is a centre of art and culture with museums such as the Magritte Museum and the BELvue Museum. The city is also known for its lively café culture, excellent chocolate shops and famous Belgian beer. Brussels offers a fascinating mix of historical sights and modern city life, with the European Quarter and the Atomium as modern landmarks symbolising the city's role on the world stage.

Belgium has a rich historical heritage, reflected in well-preserved medieval towns, magnificent castles and battlefields. Bruges, also known as the "Venice of the North", is famous for its picturesque canals and impressive architecture. In Waterloo, you can trace the history of Napoleon. Belgium was also the theatre of both world wars, as evidenced by the numerous memorials and museums, particularly in Ypres and on the battlefields of Flanders.

Belgian cuisine is as varied as the country itself, with influences from French and Dutch cuisine. Belgium is famous for its chocolate and pralines, which are among the best in the world. Belgian waffles, fries and moules-frites (mussels with fries) are popular dishes that can be found all over the country. Belgium is also famous for its beer, of which there are more than 1,000 varieties, including Trappist beer, which is still brewed in monasteries. A culinary journey of discovery through Belgium is a must for any foodie.

The Belgian cultural landscape is characterised by a deep-rooted art and music tradition. From the masterpieces of Flemish painter Jan van Eyck to the surrealist creations of René Magritte, Belgium has a proud history of contributions to world art. Belgium hosts numerous festivals celebrating music, film, art and even comics, a medium that is particularly popular in Belgium and has spawned some of the most famous comic book characters such as Tintin and the Smurfs. Belgium is also known for its vibrant theatre and dance scene and offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year.

From historic castles and battlefields to culinary delights and a rich cultural scene, Belgium offers a fascinating mix of experiences that make it a unique destination in Europe. Every visit to this small but proud country is a journey of discovery through the pages of history, the palette of culinary delights and the diversity of cultural expressions.