Cycle along a river path and embrace haute vegetarian cuisine
Brussels, Antwerp, and fairytale-like Bruges might already be on your radar, but don’t overlook Ghent. Located in the Flemish northwest region of the country, Ghent is easily accessible from the larger cities by train. It has a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of medieval streets and squares to roam, and a food scene dominated by local fishermen and farmers. Rife with vegetarian restaurants, the town celebrates each Thursday as “veggie day,” where citizens are encouraged to skip meat and fish in favor of produce.
Here, what to do in this eco-friendly city.
Where to stay
Run by a husband and wife, Ganda Rooms & Suites is housed in a building erected circa 1757. The rooms organically meld antique furnishings with modern touches. Unwind on one of the terraces or sip on a local Gruut beer by the fireplace in the salon.
An imposing structure with octagonal towers, the city’s long-time neo-Gothic post office is now 1898 The Post. The luxe rooms feature old-world touches like sloping ceilings and 20th-century furniture. Before bed, drop by the onsite bar, Cobbler, for a libation and stunning views of the city by night.
