Belgium’s ‘City by the Sea’ Ostend

Day 1 Morning departure for the journey to Dover for the sea crossing to Dunkirk. On arrival continue the journey along the coast to Ostend for a three night stay.

Days 2 and 3 You will enjoy a free morning in Ostend with its individual charm, characterful seafront and marina. Take a stroll along the pier or relax on the promenade with a drink. Visit one of the many churches or museums and perhaps do a little shopping. After lunch you will travel to Tyne Cot Commonwealth Cemetery, located in an area near Passchendaele which was known as the Ypres Salient where Commonwealth, French, Belgian and German forces fought almost continuously throughout the First World War. Take a moment to remember all the men lost during the war. Afterwards you will visit Ypres where you have free time to perhaps visit the Cloth Hall and the Grote Market with many restaurants and cafés. Time to obtain dinner before seeing the Last Post Ceremony at 8pm at the Menin Gate before returning to the hotel.

• A morning visit to the majestic town of Sluis, which has shops, restaurants and bars aplenty. Why not visit the Belfort – a Flemish clock tower in the heart of the town or take a walk around the town walls, with reminders of the past such as the old ramparts and town gates. There is a working windmill here and you can buy milled flour in the gift shop which has a tearoom. After lunch return to Ostend for free time.

Day 4 After breakfast, depart the hotel and commence the homeward journey.

The hotel is set in a 1928 Art Deco building, within 150 metres from the beach and the Oostende Boulevard. All bedrooms are en-suite with TV, WiFi, hairdryer, toiletries and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift, restaurant, bar and terrace.