Kortrijk
This historic city is known for its impressive Gothic-style town hall and picturesque central square. Visitors can also explore the city's historic churches and museums, or enjoy a stroll along the River Leie.
Oostende
Another popular coastal destination, Oostende has a lively beachfront promenade, an impressive art museum, and a historic fish market. Visitors can also explore the town's picturesque parks and gardens.

West Flanders

WELCOME TO West Flanders

Province Overview

Main city

Bruges

AREA

3,144 km2

POPULATION

1.2 million

Main language

Dutch

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Belgian Coast

The Belgian Coast is a 67 km stretch of coastline located in the province of West Flanders, Belgium. Known for its sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and lively promenades, the coastline is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. The area is also home to several resorts, including Knokke-Heist, Blankenberge, and Oostende, which offer a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists to enjoy.

Flemish Ardennes

The Flemish Ardennes is a hilly region located in the south of West Flanders, Belgium. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Visitors can explore picturesque countryside and traditional Belgian architecture while taking in the stunning views.

Bruges

Bruges is a stunning medieval city located in the province of West Flanders, Belgium. Known as the "Venice of the North," the city features charming canals, cobbled streets, and impressive Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the city's famous market square, admire its historic churches, and take a boat tour of the canals for a unique perspective of the city.

Political

Economy and Government

West Flanders is a prosperous region in Belgium with a strong economy and a diverse range of industries. The region has a thriving agricultural sector, with a significant production of potatoes, vegetables, and fruit, as well as a growing tourism industry.

In addition, West Flanders has a well-developed manufacturing sector, which includes textiles, machinery, and food processing. The region is home to several large multinational corporations, including Barco, Bekaert, and LVD Company, which provide employment opportunities for many residents.

The government of West Flanders is led by a governor who is appointed by the Flemish government. The governor is responsible for overseeing the administration of the region and ensuring that local laws and regulations are enforced. The region is divided into several municipalities, each with its own elected council and mayor.

West Flanders is also home to several universities and research centers, including Ghent University and the Flemish Institute for Technological Research. These institutions help to drive innovation and technological advancements in the region, and provide a skilled workforce for local businesses. Overall, the economy and government of West Flanders are strong and well-positioned for continued growth and prosperity.

History

History and Culture

West Flanders is a region located in the western part of Belgium, known for its rich history and culture. The region played a significant role in both World War I and II, with many battles fought on its soil. As a result, the area is home to numerous war memorials and museums, such as the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, which provides an in-depth look at the impact of the Great War on the region.

West Flanders is also known for its traditional Flemish culture, which can be experienced through its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The region boasts several well-preserved medieval cities, such as Bruges and Ghent, which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visitors can explore the picturesque canals, stunning architecture, and impressive art collections of these cities.

In terms of cuisine, West Flanders is renowned for its beer and chocolate. The region is home to several famous breweries, including the Trappist Westvleteren Brewery, which produces some of the most sought-after beers in the world. The area is also known for its high-quality chocolate, with many artisanal chocolate makers located throughout the region.

Overall, West Flanders offers visitors a fascinating blend of history and culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage of Belgium.

HOTELS​

Hotel Heritage

Located in the heart of the medieval city of Bruges, Hotel Heritage is a luxury hotel that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a wellness center with a sauna, steam room, and fitness facilities.

Hotel de Tuilerieen

Situated on the banks of a picturesque canal in Bruges, Hotel de Tuilerieen is a boutique hotel housed in a historic 15th-century building. The hotel features stylishly decorated rooms and suites, a cozy bar with canal views, and a beautiful garden terrace.

Hotel Ariane

Located in the charming town of Ieper (Ypres), Hotel Ariane is a family-run hotel that offers comfortable rooms and suites in a peaceful setting. The hotel features a cozy bar and lounge area, a garden terrace, and a sauna for guests to relax in after a day of exploring the town's historic sites and war memorials.

RESTAURANTS​

De Karmeliet

Located in the heart of Bruges, De Karmeliet is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is renowned for its innovative cuisine, which is inspired by local ingredients and international flavors. The elegant dining room and impeccable service make it a top choice for a special occasion.

Hertog Jan

Set in the countryside near the town of Zedelgem, Hertog Jan is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create modern Belgian cuisine. The restaurant offers a choice of tasting menus, with dishes that showcase the chef's creativity and technical skills.

Boury

Located in the town of Roeselare, Boury is a one-Michelin-starred restaurant that features contemporary French and Belgian cuisine. The restaurant's stylishly decorated dining room and open kitchen create a vibrant atmosphere, while the tasting menus offer a wide range of flavors and textures to tantalize the taste buds.
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