In Brugge

14th August
Brugge
After a very European breakfast we set off to discover more sights of Brugge. We took heaps and heaps of photos. It seems like there is a beautiful view just around each corner. The houses and buildings have stepped gables which give them a unique look. We went into - well I went into - Den wandered around keeping boredom at bay - while I went into some of the lace shops. Most of the lace is hand made in Brugge and Belgium, but the cheaper comes from the 'far east'. We then had some lunch, sitting in a pretty square, watching the horse and carriages taking people for tours around the town.
Next stop was to go up the Belfry. 366 steps. After my disappointment at not being able to go up the Leaning Tower of Pisa 2 years ago there was no way I was going to miss out on going to the top of the belfry. Anyone who has seen the movie 'In Brugge' will remember the bell tower. We had to queue for quite awhile as only 70 people can be in the tower at any one time. The tower was built in 1200's and completed to its present height in 1426. The steps are worn from so many feet over so many years. The top half the steps change from stone to wood. It is just around and around in a spiral to four different levels. When some one is coming from the other direction whoever is nearest a corner step gives way and the other person can fit through and pass. Coming down was much easier but great care was needed on the narrow treads.
A Brugge made beer was what was needed after that adventure. Brugge Zot is the local brew. We sat by one of the canals in a lovely cooling breeze. Ah very relaxing.
Next on the must-do list was a canal tour. Our driver looked very capable until he told us it was his first day!!!! He asked what languages were understood - French, German and English. Every comment he made was then repeated in all three languages. The young Europeans are amazing with their language skills. Brugge was overcast today so the photos don't do it justice but I think you will be able to see that it is a very special place - my favorite so far, of all the places we have visited this trip.
So back to our hotel to get ready for dinner. We chose a special restaurant which overhangs the canal. It has great views and great food. I had mussels for my mains - they were served in a cooking pot the size of a 4 litre tin of paint. It was full to the top, and they went all the way to the bottom. It was a huge serving - no way could I finish it. They were absolutley delicious. Den had enjoyed his steak as well, so off back to the hotel to do the blog, and now at 10.30pm we are off out to have a wander and look at the lights and the buildings at night.
Tomorrow is a big day - we leave at 6.30 to go to Amsterdam airport and off to Dublin. So good night and shall type again from Ireland.