Distance from base: 280 km

Ghent - hidden gem of Belgium

Ghent is one of Belgium’s oldest cities and the historic capital of Flanders. It was powerful, well-organized in its wealthy trade guilds, and virtually independent until 1584. The city is well known for its large public squares an its many famous medieval monasteries, the most notable are the ruined 7^th century abbey of St. Bavo. The most famous artwork here though is The Altar of Ghent, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, renowned as by far the greatest masterpiece of old Flemish painting.
Next to the River Lieve you find the fortress of Gravensteen which is one of the strongest moated fortresses in Western Europe and was built between 1180 and 1200.
For great views over the central old town district of Ghent I recommend to climb or take the elevator of the Belfry tower. The 91 meter-high belfry was built between 1300 and 1338.
After some sightseeing you may want to stroll the neighborhood of Graslei where you will find some of Belgium’s finest guild houses. Some more interesting sights would be the Korenmarkt (Wheat Market which is a historic square which is home to many of the old Guild Houses (Gindenhuis), known for its lovely architecture and numerous restaurants and cafes; the Saint Michael's Bridge which is an excellent spot for pictures of Ghent’s skyline with its iconic towers and the town hall (Stadhuis) from 1535.
In the afternoon a canal cruise will show you the highlights of Ghent from the water.