Europe is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. While major cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona offer iconic sights and vibrant urban experiences, sometimes the best way to truly connect with a destination is to step beyond the city limits. That’s where Pure Adventures’ short tours come in—offering the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and cultural immersion to complement your European travels.

Why Add a Short Tour to Your European Itinerary?

Many travelers plan their trips around famous cities, but Europe’s countryside, coastal regions, and historic villages hold hidden gems that are just as captivating. A short tour allows you to:

• Escape the Crowds – Trade bustling city streets for peaceful vineyards, rolling hills, and scenic coastlines.
• Experience Authentic Local Culture – Meet artisans, taste regional specialties, and explore charming villages untouched by mass tourism.
• Stay Active While Traveling – Whether cycling through Tuscany, hiking in Puglia, or exploring the Catalonian countryside, these tours let you experience nature firsthand.
• Seamlessly Fit Into Your Itinerary – With durations of four to five days, these tours are perfect for a mini getaway or an adventure-packed addition to a longer trip.

Featured Short Tours

• • Belgium – Flanders Short Bike and Beer Tour
    Cycle through the scenic Flanders countryside, visiting Ghent, Damme, and Bruges. Along the way, indulge in Belgium’s world-famous beer, chocolate, and cheese, all while soaking in the region’s rich history. Learn more
  • Croatia – Island Hopping Short Bike Tour
    Explore the stunning Dalmatian coast, hopping between islands like Brač, Šolta, and Hvar. Ride through lavender fields, vineyards, and historic coastal towns, all while soaking in the Mediterranean charm. Discover more
  • Spain – Catalonia Costa Brava Short Bike Tour
    Ride through rolling countryside, from coastal views to medieval villages, passing sunflower fields and vineyards. Enjoy top-quality gastronomic dinners featuring fresh seafood and exceptional wines. Explore the tour
  • Italy – Puglia Short Escape Bike Tours
    Discover UNESCO-listed Matera, Alberobello, and Monopoli on this scenic e-bike tour through olive groves and rolling countryside. Explore 2 tour options here
  • Italy – Tuscany Escape Short Bike Tour
    Pedal through Siena, Montalcino, and Pienza, indulging in world-class wine, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. See details

The Best of Both Worlds

Imagine starting your trip in Rome, exploring the Colosseum and Vatican, then escaping to the Tuscan countryside for a few days of cycling through vineyards and medieval towns. Or perhaps you’ve spent time in Barcelona, soaking in Gaudí’s architectural wonders—now you can head to Catalonia’s Costa Brava for a scenic ride through sunflower fields and coastal cliffs.

And if you’re craving a coastal adventure, Croatia’s Dalmatian islands offer the perfect mix of crystal-clear waters, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes.

These short tours allow you to balance urban exploration with outdoor adventure, ensuring that your European journey is both enriching and rejuvenating.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Check out all our short tours here!

The post Short Tours with Pure Adventures: The Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture appeared first on Pure Adventures.

1. Trappist Beers

Belgium boasts six officially recognized Trappist breweries: Chimay, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle, Westvleteren, and Achel. These beers are brewed within Trappist monasteries under the supervision of monks, with profits supporting the monastery or charitable causes. Trappist beers include various styles such as:

• Dubbel: Rich and malty with notes of dark fruit, caramel, and spices.
• Tripel: Lighter in color but stronger in alcohol, with fruity and spicy aromas and a dry finish.
• Quadrupel: Full-bodied, with complex flavors of dried fruit, toffee, and warming alcohol.

2. Abbey Beers

Similar to Trappist beers, but not brewed by monks, Abbey beers are often inspired by monastic brewing traditions. They include many of the same styles, offering rich, flavorful brews ranging from Dubbels and Tripels to lighter blond ales. Examples include Leffe and Grimbergen.

3. Lambics

Lambics are wild-fermented beers made using spontaneous fermentation, which relies on natural yeasts and bacteria in the air. Unique to Belgium, these beers have a distinct tartness and complex character. Lambics often serve as a base for other styles like:

• Gueuze: A blend of young and aged Lambics, resulting in a sparkling, tangy beer.
• Kriek: Lambic fermented with cherries, offering a fruity and sour profile.
• Framboise: Similar to Kriek but made with raspberries, for a vibrant berry flavor.

4. Saison

Originating in the farms of Wallonia, Saisons were traditionally brewed for farmworkers. These beers are known for their dry, refreshing character and earthy, spicy, and sometimes citrusy flavors. Saison Dupont is one of the most famous examples of this style.

5. Witbier (White Beer)

Belgian Witbiers are light, cloudy ales brewed with wheat, often flavored with spices like coriander and orange peel. These beers are refreshing and slightly sweet, making them a great choice for summer sipping. Hoegaarden is a classic Witbier that’s recognized worldwide.

6. Blonde Ales

Smooth and easy-drinking, Belgian Blonde Ales are golden in color with a subtle sweetness, balanced bitterness, and fruity yeast character. They are perfect for those who enjoy approachable yet flavorful beers.

7. Strong Golden Ales

These beers are deceptively smooth despite their high alcohol content, often exceeding 8%. They are typically pale in color with a dry finish and fruity, spicy yeast aromas. Duvel is a world-famous example of this style.

8. Flemish Red and Oud Bruin

These are sour ales fermented with wild yeasts and aged in wooden barrels:

• Flemish Red Ale: Known for its deep red color and tangy, fruity flavors with notes of cherries and balsamic vinegar (e.g., Rodenbach).
• Oud Bruin (Old Brown): Similar but darker, with rich caramel and toffee notes balancing its sourness.

9. Belgian Pale Ale

These beers are milder and less fruity than other Belgian styles, with a balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. They are a great introduction to Belgian beer for those who prefer more restrained flavors.

Explore Belgium by Bike: The Perfect Way to Taste and Discover

Cycling through Belgium offers the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the country’s beer culture. On a self-guided bike tour, you can navigate scenic routes that take you from bustling cities to tranquil villages, stopping at iconic breweries and quaint beer cafes along the way. The compact size of Belgium makes it easy to explore diverse regions on two wheels, whether you’re sampling Trappist ales near a monastery or enjoying a Lambic beer in the Pajottenland countryside. With the freedom to ride at your own pace, you can truly savor the landscapes, history, and flavors that make Belgium one of the most exciting destinations for beer lovers.

Here are our Top 2 Belgium Bike & Beer Tours:

Belgium – Flanders Short Bike and Beer Tour

This 4-night self-guided bike tour immerses you in the essence of Belgium, combining idyllic countryside rides with stops in its most iconic cities. Starting in Bruges, the “Venice of the North,” you’ll pedal through medieval streets, past canals, and alongside picturesque windmills. The journey takes you to other charming towns such as Ghent, a vibrant city with a rich history and lively atmosphere, and Antwerp, known for its art, culture, and gourmet delights. Along the way, you’ll explore breathtaking castles, tranquil farmlands, and cobblestone streets, all while savoring Belgium’s famed chocolates, waffles, and beer. The carefully planned route ensures you experience the highlights of Belgium in a way that’s both active and leisurely.

Belgium – Flanders Beer and Bike Tour

For history enthusiasts, this 7-night self-guided bike tour offers a deeply moving experience through the battlefields and memorials of World War I. This Belgium self-guided bike tour takes you on a journey through the countryside of West Flanders, visiting significant landmarks such as the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the Menin Gate, and the In Flanders Fields Museum. Alongside its historical significance, this tour also introduces you to the charming villages and serene landscapes that make the region so unique. Perfectly suited for cyclists seeking both reflection and discovery, the Flanders Fields Bike Tour combines poignant history with the natural beauty of Belgium.

Why Choose a Self-Guided Bike Tour in Belgium?

With a self-guided bike tour, you have the freedom to tailor each day to your preferences. Want to linger in a quaint village or enjoy an extra beer at a local brewery? The choice is yours! We provide detailed route maps, expert recommendations, and emergency support along the way, ensuring you have all the tools you need to explore Belgium at your own pace.

Whether you’re tracing history through the fields of Flanders or marveling at the architectural wonders of Bruges and Ghent, our Belgium bike tours offer a seamless blend of culture, history, and adventure. Ready to embark on a journey filled with iconic sights, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memories? Don’t delay – Belgium is calling!

Visit Pure Adventures to learn more and plan your perfect Belgium self-guided beer bike tour. Cheers!🚴‍♀️🍻

For more on our Belgium bike tours, click here!

The post Belgium: A Paradise for Beer Lovers appeared first on Pure Adventures.

No tour of Belgium would be complete without indulging in its world-renowned cheese, chocolate, and beer. As you cycle through the region, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample artisanal cheeses crafted with centuries-old techniques, offering a taste of Belgium’s rich dairy heritage. Treat yourself to decadent chocolates from local chocolatiers, where every bite reflects Belgium’s iconic reputation as a chocolate paradise. And, of course, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a refreshing pint of Belgium’s legendary beer—from Trappist ales brewed in monasteries to craft beers bursting with unique flavors. These culinary delights perfectly complement your journey, adding delicious memories to your cycling adventure!

Belgium – Flanders Short Bike and Beer Tour

This 4-night self-guided bike tour immerses you in the essence of Belgium, combining idyllic countryside rides with stops in its most iconic cities. Starting in Bruges, the “Venice of the North,” you’ll pedal through medieval streets, past canals, and alongside picturesque windmills. The journey takes you to other charming towns such as Ghent, a vibrant city with a rich history and lively atmosphere, and Antwerp, known for its art, culture, and gourmet delights. Along the way, you’ll explore breathtaking castles, tranquil farmlands, and cobblestone streets, all while savoring Belgium’s famed chocolates, waffles, and beer. The carefully planned route ensures you experience the highlights of Belgium in a way that’s both active and leisurely.

Belgium – Flanders Beer and Bike Tour

For history enthusiasts, this 7-night self-guided bike tour offers a deeply moving experience through the battlefields and memorials of World War I. This Belgium self-guided bike tour takes you on a journey through the countryside of West Flanders, visiting significant landmarks such as the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the Menin Gate, and the In Flanders Fields Museum. Alongside its historical significance, this tour also introduces you to the charming villages and serene landscapes that make the region so unique. Perfectly suited for cyclists seeking both reflection and discovery, the Flanders Fields Bike Tour combines poignant history with the natural beauty of Belgium.

Why Choose a Self-Guided Bike Tour in Belgium?

With a self-guided bike tour, you have the freedom to tailor each day to your preferences. Want to linger in a quaint village or enjoy an extra beer at a local brewery? The choice is yours! We provide detailed route maps, expert recommendations, and emergency support along the way, ensuring you have all the tools you need to explore Belgium at your own pace.

Whether you’re tracing history through the fields of Flanders or marveling at the architectural wonders of Bruges and Ghent, our Belgium bike tours offer a seamless blend of culture, history, and adventure. Ready to embark on a journey filled with iconic sights, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memories? Don’t delay – Belgium is calling!

Click HERE to learn more and plan your perfect self-guided Belgium cycling escape. 🚴‍♀️

Want to learn more about why Belgium is a Beer Lover’s Paradise? Click here to get the full pint!

The post Explore Belgium at Your Own Pace: Two Unforgettable Self-Guided Bike Tours appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Argentina

Argentina has a stronger European influence than some of its South American contemporaries, so you’ll find plenty of aesthetic similarities in Argentinian Christmas decorations. However, seeing as December is summertime south of the equator, it can be quite hot out. Christmas trees are sometimes decorated with cotton balls to represent snow that wouldn’t last five minutes in the Buenos Aires climate. A uniquely Argentinian addition to the festivities are globos, paper lanterns launched on Christmas Eve. Watching them drift across the night sky is lovely way to mark the season.

Chile

You’ll find plenty of festive holiday treats in any of the nations on this list, but none pack as much kick as the Chilean beverage Cola de Mono (“Monkey’s Tail”). Lore has it this drink’ll have you swinging from the ceiling. That’s probably down to the sugar, coffee and booze, which combine with milk and spices for a flavour reminiscent of a White Russian cocktail. Chilean aguardiente or pisco are most traditional, but if you’re curious to try this one at home, white rum is a fair substitute.

Catalonia

Catalonia’s Tió de Nadal might be one of the odder traditions here, though it shares some DNA with the Advent calendar and the piñata. The tió is a hollow logo, often painted with a smiling face and covered with a blanket to keep it warm. Beginning on December 8 children feed it snacks and candies. When Christmas Eve rolls around, the kids beat the log with sticks while asking it in singsong to poop out presents. When the songs are over, lo and behold the tió has dropped a stash of treats beneath the blanket. The tió has several scatological names and songs attached to it, ensuring this quirky tradition never gets old.

Belgium

Saint Nicolas is the patron saint of children, and Sinterklaas is his Belgian incarnation. His signature red outfit is the inspiration behind modern-day Santa Claus. Like Santa Claus he keeps a thorough naughty-and-nice list, but unlike Santa his off-season home is in Spain, and he makes the journey to Belgium by boat. Nor does he travel by reindeer, but rides a white horse. Instead of milk and cookies, some children leave a carrot or hay to feed Sinter’s faithful mount.

Germany

Many Germany children practice a variant of the old stocking-by-the-hearth tradition. While waiting for Father Christmas on the night of December 5th, they place a shoe or a boot outside their front door — perhaps recently cleaned, to show they’ve been good. If he buys it, the shoe will be filled with sweets and gifts come morning. If a child has landed on the naughty register instead, Father Christmas’ dour assistant Knecht Ruprecht will stuff it with coal, twigs, or stones.

Austria

One of Austria’s great contributions to the Christmas canon is “Silent Night” (“Stille Nacht”). Composed by Franz Xaver Gruber with lyrics by Joseph Mohr, the song has been officially recognized by UNESCO as part of the nation’s cultural heritage. That song might be the definition of wholesome, but the Austrian tradition makes room for some wickedness in the form of Krampus, a cloven-hoofed demon who violently punishes naughty children. Krampus festivals take place throughout December, featuring some truly terrifying costumes. If the holidays get a little saccharine for your tastes, Krampus will cut through the sweetness in a hurry.

Croatia

You’ve probably heard of yule logs (even if it’s only through the televised version). Croatia’s iteration is called a badnjak, and traditionally it would be cut on the morning of Christmas Eve. Families sprinkle it with wine or holy water while making their religious observations. Once lit it’s important the badnjak stay burning throughout the night, so someone must be sure to get up and tend the fire every few hours. With an increasingly urbanized population this one isn’t so widespread anymore, though it’s still practiced in rural areas.

Czech Republic

Most kids look forward to seeing Santa or his regional equivalent on Christmas Eve, but in the Czech Republic some look forward to seeing a golden pig. That’s down to a persistent legend that states anyone who fasts until dinner on the 24th will see a golden pig. It’s meant to be a sign of good luck, but whether it appears or not chances are most Czechs will break fast with fish. Carp with potato salad is a very traditional meal, so much so large tanks show up on the streets of Prague the week before Christmas full of fresh carp.

France

The French are known for their culinary excellence, so it’s no surprise Christmas meals can take a long time. In Provence that might mean following dinner with a whopping thirteen desserts. Les Treize Desserts de Noël are said to represent Jesus Christ and his twelve apostles. Exact menus vary, but fruits, nuts, biscuits and nougat are traditional. Most of the options are fairly light, and remain set out on the table until the 27th to give a family time to graze.

Ireland

A candle in the window seems like a quintessential Christmas decoration, but in Ireland at least the tradition has a double meaning. Officially the candle was meant as a symbol of hospitality and an invitation for Joseph and Mary to seek shelter there. The second meaning was more clandestine — in the 17th century Catholicism was suppressed, and Catholics practiced their faith in secret. A candle in the window at Christmas time was a beacon that told priests they could safely visit to say Mass. The candle tradition is less common today, but persists in some homes as a sign of welcome.

Italy

In some traditions Epiphany holds more religious significance than Christmas itself. That’s why in Italy children often receive their gifts on January 5, Epiphany Eve. Rather than a visit from Father Christmas, some Italian youngsters look forward to a visit from La Befana. Legend has it she was approached by the Three Wise Men during their search for Jesus, but she declined their offer to accompany them because she had housework to attend to. When she realized what an opportunity she’d missed she struck out on a search of her own, gifting presents to good little children along the way. She might even do a bit of sweeping before moving on, and children leave her a glass of wine as a token of thanks.

Portugal

The bolo-rei is the most famous of Portuguese Christmas desserts. Literally translating as “king cake,” it looks like a deluxe fruitcake topped with colourful candied fruit. A hole in the middle makes it resemble a crown. Baked inside it are a fava bean and a coin or small prize (some versions omit the latter, and commercial versions may omit both). The person who gets the prize can bask in their good luck for a whole year; the person eating the slice with the fava bean is declared the King and must supply next year’s bolo-rei.

Slovenia

An old Slovenian Christmas tradition revolves around baking three loaves of bread. Wheat, rye, and buckwheat don’t sound like particularly festive choices, but they symbolize the three feasts of Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany. A sweeter option is potica, a cake made with nuts or other flavourful fillings. In addition to all the baking, if you’re in Slovenia you might catch other scents on the air as well— burning incense is a popular holiday tradition.

Considering seeing some of this Christmas traditions firsthand? Check out our South American tour offerings, or use the Destinations tab to browse our European tours.

The post Unique Christmas Traditions from Around the World appeared first on Pure Adventures.

At Pure Adventures we are so lucky to have bike rental connections all over the world, who supply our clients with top quality bikes perfect for the diverse tours that we offer.

However, if you just can’t bring yourself to leave your bike at home, here are some excellent infographics by the folks over at Yellow Jersey  that display bike luggage charges from one end of the planet to the other.

Which will you choose after crunching the numbers?

The post Bike Luggage Charges: Worth Keeping Your Bike At Home? appeared first on Pure Adventures.

1 – Carnival of Binche

“There is no place like Binche in the world”, so goes the famous quote and you are apt to agree if taking part in the Carnival of Binche in Belgium. While the origins of the carnival are mysterious, the legend of a Gille descendant from the Incas dressing in an elaborate costume in the days leading up to Lent has survived centuries. As one of Europe’s oldest street festivals, Carnival of Binche is a part of UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the parades, musicians’ costumes,and most importantly, the folklore of this event will astound you. The next Carnival of Binche is in March.

2 – International Regatta of Bathtubs

Aspiring bathtub captains rejoice! The International Regatta of Bathtubs, running since 1982, pits creative sailors against each other to see who can build the best boat out of – you guessed it – a bathtub. Originally dreamed up as a gimmick to drive tourists to the sleepy town of Dinant, an hour away from Brussels, the International Regatta of Bathtubs is a race known more for elaborate bathtubs boats and costumes than speed, since no motors are permitted. Grab a famous Belgium beer or coffee and join thousands of spectators for the off-beat festival.

3 – Christmas Beer Festival

It’s a bucket list item for any beer lover – Belgium’s Christmas Beer Festival! With over 170 bottled beers and 20 draught beers to sample, the Objective Beer Tasters Essen Region hosts nearly 3000 visitors each Christmas in Essen, Belgium. Sure, the glasses you drink from are returnable, but we think keeping one or two as a souvenir is a good idea. Named one of the top beer festivals in the world by Pure Travel, the next Christmas Beer Festival Essen takes place in December.

4 – Tour of Flanders

From its humble beginnings in 1913 as a race intended to boost the circulation of the sports-focused newspaper Sportwereld to today’s epic bicycling race, the Tour of Flanders celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2023. Definitively Belgium’s most important cycling race and the most important held on a single day, Tour of Flanders organizers go above and beyond to hold a world-class event just as thrilling for spectators as it is for the pro-riders who participate. Held in early April, we think it’s worth taking the money you saved by booking a self-guided vacation and splurging on one of of the VIP spectator packages – like the lavish 3X Oude Kwaremont VIP-lunch or breakfast at Belfry Halls.

View our self-guided Belgium bike tours here.

Join the conversation! Tell us on Facebook about a bizarre festival you have attended!

The post Belgium’s best & bizarre festivals appeared first on Pure Adventures.

One of just three regions in Belgium, East Flanders is made up of six districts.  This area is a pleasure to visit, with rolling hills making way for friendly villages lined with lovely old houses and quaint cobblestone streets.  Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fiftieth, you’re sure to feel right at home amidst the welcoming locals and the peaceful atmosphere that makes East Flanders so unique.  Of the six districts, two in particular stand out and top the must-visit list: Ghent and Oudenaarde.

Ghent

The largest city and the capital of East Flanders, Ghent is also Belgium’s second largest municipality, based on total population.  Once one of Europe’s richest cities, today Ghent remains a bustling town that is abuzz with energy and excitement and boasts a long, fascinating history that runs deep. From the magnificent Saint Nicholas Church to the towering Belfort and Lace Hall to the spectacular Saint Baaf Cathedral, the ancient ties that link back to centuries past are still clearly evident today.

The center of the city is home to the mighty Castle of the Counts, a medieval castle that was originally constructed in the year 868.  Visitors today can explore the macabre torture chambers, complete with rack, thumbscrews and the executioner’s swords.  Much of the city’s ancient architecture remains remarkably intact and provides a rare opportunity to take a virtual journey back in time for all who visit this beautiful destination.

For those that enjoy festivals and fairs, if you time your trip correctly you can take part in the annual Ghent Festival, a 10-day long extravaganza that celebrates the arts of music and theatre.  The city is also home to an annual international film festival, the “10 Days Off” music festival, and the spectacular botanical exhibition, which takes place every five years.  Finally, there is the Festival of Flanders, which has been a Ghent tradition for more than 50 years. During the event, some 50 concerts are held throughout the medieval inner-city and nearly 250 international artists perform.

Oudenaarde

Another magnificent city that is as rich with history as it is personality and culture, Oudenaarde is among one of the most popular stops in East Flanders.  It is home to a great number of ancient buildings and fascinating displays of architecture and art.  Perhaps the crown jewel of Oudenaared is the beautiful town hall and its majestic belfry, which were constructed in the early 1500’s.  The façade on the town hall, as it stands today, is perfectly symmetrical and the belfry tower features a crown with gilded eagles and a golden statue of a 16^th century flag bearer.  It’s absolutely fantastic to behold.

Historians will also enjoy a visit to the spectacular Liedts Castle.  While it may not be as old as some of the other structures and monuments in Oudenaarde, it’s got a long, sordid and fascinating past that makes it a must-see on any visitor’s list.  The castle is built on the site where former fortifications once stood – land which was purchased by the prominent Liedts family.  In 1860, a beautiful whitewashed cottage was built, which was later converted into the present day castle.  This magnificent building is exquisitely adorned, even down to the window frames, which boast the initials of Amedée Liedts.  The castle, its library, art collection, valuables and the surrounding park were donated to Oudenaarde by Amedée in 1907 and continue to be enjoyed by countless visitors to this day.

The region of East Flanders is certainly one of Belgium’s most sought after and admired destinations for travelers the world over.  While there are plenty of reasons to visit, the cities of Ghent and Oudenaarde provide two of the most compelling.  From beautiful scenery to fascinating history to friendly residents and festivals galore, it’s sure to be a journey you won’t soon forget.

The post Ghent and Oudenaarde appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Located in Ypres, Belgium, the Menin Gate Memorial is a WWI monument that commemorates the tens of thousands of fallen British and Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in the Ypres Salient and whose graves are sadly still unknown.  The beautifully designed monument stands proudly at the eastern exit of the town and marks the starting point of one of the main roads that led Allied soldiers out of the town to the dangerous front line of battle.

The Menin Gate Memorial was designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield and constructed by the British government.  It was officially unveiled to the public on July 24, 1927. The memorial’s infamous arch provides entry to a barrel-vaulted passage leading to a mausoleum which honors the missing. It was chosen to be a memorial because of its close proximity to the area where the battles took place.  In fact, the Allied Troops would have marched right past it on their way to war.  Perhaps most noteworthy is the memorial’s large Hall of Memory, which contains stone panels bearing the names of 54,896 Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Salient but whose bodies have never been found or identified.

The location of the monument, Ypres, held a very strategic position during WWI because it stood directly in the path of Germany’s planned sweep across Belgium. It was particularly important for the Allies, since it would eventually become the last major Belgian town that did not come under German control.  It was the Ypres Salient, which was comprised of British, French, Canadian and Belgian armies rising up against Germany, that kept Ypres safe from German occupation.  These battles, however, came at a high price.  Some 300,000 soldiers lost their lives.

One of the most moving ceremonies held at the Menin Gate Memorial is known as the Last Post Ceremony.  Each evening just before 8pm, traffic is stopped from passing through the gate and a troop of bugle players, members of the local volunteer Fire Brigade dressed sharply in uniform, make their way to the center of the Hall of Memory.  At exactly 8pm, as stillness descends over the memorial, the buglers play Last Post, observe a moment of silence and then finish with a rendition of Reveille.  Depending on when you visit, you may even witness musical bands, choirs, orchestras or even a parade honoring the fallen soldiers during the Last Post Ceremony.  It is an incredibly moving tribute to the courageous sacrifices that were made here.

As with much of Europe, Belgium boasts a long, sordid history with sobering reminders of the past seemingly at every turn.  The Menin Gate Memorial is one such reminder – a testament to those who went before us and made the ultimate sacrifice in their fight for freedom and a better future.  It presents an excellent opportunity to take a moment and reflect, paying honor and respect to the many fallen soldiers and to help ensure that although they haven’t been identified, they did not die in vain and will never be forgotten.

The post Menin Gate Memorial appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Set amidst a beautiful landscape of rolling green pastures and lush gardens, and home to ancient castles, gourmet dining and endless carnivals filled with music and excitement, Belgium offers a little bit of everything to welcome travelers.  This progressive little country has found a way to brilliantly combine its ancient past with the modern era, making a visit there unique and truly unforgettable.  The terrain is challenging, yet inviting – perfect for passionate cyclists who want to experience a new culture while doing what they love.  Here are five reasons to grab your bike and head to Belgium.

Bruges

Located in the northwest of Belgium, this historical city is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North” because of the network of canals that run through it.  There is so much rich history in Bruges, it’s almost hard to fit it all in.  In the center of the city stands the towering Belfry of Bruges, a huge ancient bell tower that has been a prominent symbol there since it was built in 1240.  Visitors can climb the 366 steps to the top for an experience not to be forgotten.  The town center is also host to other fascinating old buildings, such as the Church of Our Lady, the Basilica of the Holy Blood and City Hall just to name a few.  Park your bike and take a leisurely boat ride through the narrow canals to get a unique view of the city’s ancient architecture.

Cuisine

Any experienced traveler knows that to truly experience another country, you must taste the local cuisine.  Belgium is famous for such delectable treats as chocolate and waffles, and the old staples of beer and French fries.  Beer production is large part of the Belgian economy with Anheuser-Busch, the largest brewer in the world, based there.  In fact, there are over 500 brands of the bubbly beverage produced there, so get your glass ready and start sipping.  When it’s time for dessert, there’s the gourmet chocolatiers of Côte d’Or, Callebaut and Godiva to choose from.  You’ll need to rest before your next ride to digest all the rich food and drink you’ll consume.

Tour de Flanders

Known by the locals as Ronde van Vlaanderen, this one day bike race is held in Belgium every year during the spring.  The course has changed considerably over the years but has consistently started in the city of Bruges for the past decade.  Part of the UCI World Tour, it’s a challenging and important race and is unique in that much of the riding is done uphill on uneven, bumpy cobblestones.  If you’re visiting in the spring, consider finding a spot on the roadside to cheer on the pros; this is not a race for the faint of heart.

Menin Gate

History buffs will be captivated by this World War I monument which is dedicated to the missing British and Commonwealth soldiers who fought and died in the Ypres Salient.  Located at the eastern end of the town of Ypres, the memorial, which bears the names of some 54,896 fallen heroes, was strategically placed near one of the main roads that led the Allied soldiers to the front line.  Every night at 8pm, a ceremony called the Last Post is held to allow people to pay their respects to those who gave their lives to provide the freedom that the Belgian citizens enjoy today.  It’s a somber yet beautiful tribute.

Brussels

The capital of Belgium, this progressive city is abuzz with excitement.  Bustling with cafes, shops, museums and festivals, Brussels is a must for any travel itinerary.  Its center, known as Grand Place, includes a rich variety of historical sites such as a Gothic town hall, the St. Michael and Gudula Cathedral and the Laken Castle, which boasts brilliant greenhouses filled with lush plant life.  So popular is Grand Place that it’s been named a UNESCO heritage site.  Art connoisseurs will enjoy visiting the Manneken Pis, a world famous sculpture that depicts a naked boy urinating into a basin.  The culturally significant landmark has stood a few hundred meters from Grand Place since it was placed there in the early 1600’s.  If that’s not enough to keep you intrigued, there are plenty of other activities and sites to see in Brussels, and an exhilarating nightlife for those so inclined.  You’ll want to park your bike and stay a while.

Belgium is a beautiful destination for travelers of any genre, with history, culture, adventure and relaxation all rolled into one.  From rolling hills to medieval castles, delicious cuisine and quaint villages, visitors are sure to leave with memories to last a lifetime.  One of the best ways to experience the beauty and unique atmosphere of this country is to cycle through it.  So what are you waiting for?  Grab your bike and find out for yourself why Belgium is the perfect place to ride.

View our self-guided Belgium bike tours here!

The post 5 Reasons to Cycle Belgium appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Ideally located in the heart of Europe, surrounded by France, Germany and the Netherlands, the charming country of Belgium offers visitors an unforgettable journey from past to present.  This culturally diverse and progressive country has somehow achieved a perfect balance between its rich history and its modern urban atmosphere.  From the bustling capital of Brussels to the medieval cities of Antwerp and Bruges, ancient streets lined with beautiful architecture by day are magically transformed to usher in the dynamic and vibrant nightlife of the area.  But to truly experience Belgium in all its glory, a taste of beer and chocolate is an absolute must.

Belgium Beer

If there’s one thing the Belgian people take seriously it’s their beer.  And there certainly is no shortage of the frothy beverage.  With over 450 varieties to choose from, many of which have become famous the world over, you’ll certainly have your pick of brews.  Even the shape of the glasses they use is specifically designed to enhance the taste of beer.

Beer connoisseurs from around the world enjoy Belgian brews for their variety, flavor and unique character.   The main types or categories of beer in Belgium include:

• Lambic – a Brussels specialty, non-malted wheat beer
• Gueuze – mixture of two or more Lambic beers
• Kriek – great summer brew, Lambic beer fermented with raspberries or cherries
• Faro – lighter version of a Lambic beer
• Brown Beers – malty, sweet and sour
• Blanche/White Beers – cloudy, light
• Red Beers – aged in oak, sweet, sour and fruity in taste
• Golden Beers – pale, similar to Pilsner lagers

Throughout the region breweries and pubs abound, offering visitors a tasty tour of the ins and outs of this famous drink and festivals are plenty throughout the country as are tasting events.  Enjoy a walking, cycling or driving tour of the area.  There’s even a beer museum to visit and learn more about one of Belgium’s biggest and most well-known commodities for which it has enjoyed an unparalleled reputation since the Middle Ages.

Belgium Chocolate

If you have more of a sweet tooth than a taste for hops and barley then you’re in luck.  Belgium is one of the world’s leading producers of fine chocolate, particularly the praline, a delectable and delicately hand-made treat prepared only with fresh ingredients.  The entire country is bursting with expert chocolatiers, each boasting their own exquisite concoctions.  There are also a number of museums dedicated to the confectionary treat where one can learn about the history of Belgium chocolate and how it has evolved through the years.  You can even embark on a number of different guided tours complete with tastings and samples galore.  It’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

As an added bonus visit Belgium in November for Choco-Laté, an incredible 3 day festival held every year in Bruges where visitors gather to pay homage to the sweet treat.  The fun-filled event features everything from shopping to mouthwatering demonstrations to sculptures and even chocolate body painting.  It’s truly a chocolate lover’s dream!

Whether it’s a frothy brew that tickles your fancy or a semi-sweet cocoa treat that gets your mouth watering (or perhaps both) Belgium has everything you need to satisfy your taste buds.  It’s the perfect way to round out a fascinating adventure through this beautiful and culturally rich country and ensure an unforgettable (and tasty) experience for everyone.

Pure Adventures offers a self guided bike tour of Belgium in the Flanders region where there is no shortage of either beer or chocolate!

The post Belgium Beer & Chocolate appeared first on Pure Adventures.