Flanders suplement 2023 44 page 26.6.2023_Layout 1 28/06/2023 10:00 Page 26
Flanders
Ghent: Van Eyck and On Your Bike G
started, visit cyclinginflanders.cc.
From Flemish primitives to contemporary masterpieces, their collection is a visual feast. Immerse yourself in art's beauty at www.mskgent.be and experience the cultural legacy of Ghent, a city that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
One of the most renowned cycling races in Flanders is the Tour of Flanders, now known as We Ride Flanders. is classic race, famous for its short and steep climbs, takes place in early April in Oudenaarde, just south of Ghent. e challenging terrain adds an exciting element to the race, especially considering the generally flat landscape of Flanders.
Aer exploring the artistic wonders of Ghent, it's time to embark on a popular Flanders activity: cycling. Flanders is known for its cycling culture, with numerous classic races that attract both local and international enthusiasts. While the more competitive "sportive races" encourage active participation, watching the races and cheering from the sidelines can be just as thrilling. To get
For a less intense cycling experience, the Retroronde of Flanders is an excellent option. Starting from the City Market Square in Oudenaarde, this colourful event brings together riders from all over Europe on vintage bicycles dressed in matching period clothing. e Retroronde offers a more relaxed and enjoyable cycling experience, with routes ranging from 25 to over 60 miles. To participate, bikes
must date from before 1987, and clothing should reflect the same period. Check out retroronde.be for more details. If you prefer to take a break from cycling, indulge in the culinary delights of Ghent during the Gent Smaakt festival. is five-day gastronomic festival takes place in the heart of Ghent at the end of May. Local chefs, including many prominent Ghent-born culinary artists, serve delectable dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. It's a mouthwatering experience that shouldn't be missed. Visit gentsmaakt.be for more information. For music lovers, the Ghent Festival of Flanders is a mustattend event held in the latter half of September. Over three weeks, the city comes alive with high-quality concerts at various venues, including the iconic St. Bavo's Cathedral. e festival offers a diverse range of performances, including jazz, world music, and dance, making it a cultural extravaganza worth experiencing. Learn more at gentfestival.be.
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hent, a city renowned for its fine art, is a must-visit destination in Flanders. Discover artistic wonders at the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent.
Just a short distance from Ghent, in the town of Aalst, lies an extraordinary event known as the Aalst Carnival. Taking place at the beginning of Lent, usually in late 26
February or early March, this carnival features a vibrant parade with gigantic and outlandish characters parading through the city streets. e carnival reaches its climax when a carnival effigy is set ablaze on the Grote Markt, marking the end of the festivities. e Aalst Carnival is a spectacle that captures the attention of both residents and visitors alike. Visit aalstcarnaval.be to learn more. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, Beervelde Park opens its gates just outside of Ghent. is internationally acclaimed garden fair hosts over 200 exhibitors, creating a paradise for gardening enthusiasts. Designed in 1873 with inspiration from English landscape styles, Beervelde Park offers a delightful setting to explore the world of horticulture. Discover more about the fair at parkvanbeervelde.be. Interesting fact: Ghent is home to one of the oldest preserved medieval strongholds in Europe. e Gravensteen, or "Castle of the Counts," dates back to the 12th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's history. Today, it serves as a museum, allowing visitors to explore its fortified walls, towers, and even climb to the top for panoramic views of Ghent.