The Wanderlust guide to the best of the Low Countries
Jam-packed with history and art, home to the world’s favourite comfort foods (and drinks) and boasting Europe’s largest nature reserve – here’s your lowdown on the Low Countries
Making up a coastal region in north western Europe, and consisting especially of the Netherlands and Belgium, the Low Countries have shaped European art, architecture and history, throughout the ages. Indeed, as home to the European Parliament it continues to do so to this day.
For travellers, the region offers an amazing variety of experiences, easily accessible, even on bike. You’ll find yourself cycling past picture-perfect villages and rough coastlines by day and eating and drinking in a medieval cellar by night.
Nature lovers will delight in the wide open spaces, that play host to thousands of migratory birds, while adrenaline junkies will enjoy some of the best windsurfing and kite-surfing in Europe, courtesy of the winds whipping in off the North Sea.
Is there anywhere else that offers so much packed into such a small space?
Lighthouse on Texel Island (Shutterstock)
Looking for inspiration?
Forming a barrier between the Dutch mainland and the North Sea, the West Frisian islands are both wild and accessible. Whether it’s the birdlife or the range of ‘wind-related’ outdoor activities, Anthony Lambert says you can’t beat these quirky islands for a bargain, off-beat adventure.
Ice-skating has long been the leisure activity of choice in the Low Countries – any number of Brueghel paintings can attest to that. Jasper Winn is a fan too, and has created this handy step-by-step guide to skating in the Netherlands, should you find yourself there when the rivers and ponds have frozen over.
If you’re not a Eurocrat with an expense account, Brussels can prove a little expensive. But despair not, we’ve put together a list of seven things to do for free in the EU capital, from strolling the Comic Strip Route to a tour of the European Parliament where you can see your Euros at work. Or not, as the case may be.
More information
West Frisian Islands: sculpted by the sea – Anthony Lambert
Skating through the Netherlands – Jasper Wynn
