Flanders

There's always something going on in Brussels. The vibrant metropolis is rich in art and culture and the architecture is inspiring. The Grote Markt, the Atomium and the Manneken Pis statue, which symbolise the Belgian capital, are of course a must-see. The fries stalls are also part of the cityscape - you can find a bag of crispy fries on practically every corner.

After breakfast, there is still time for a tour of the European capital. You can learn all sorts of interesting facts about Central Africa at the Royal Museum in Tervuren. A walk in the adjacent park is particularly beautiful and you can fortify yourself for the next few kilometres with a picnic. The historic art city route quickly takes you to Leuven. The university city is a hive of activity, with students setting the pace in the pedestrianised streets. Following the course of the River Dijle, you reach Mechelen, your destination for the day. The sounds of the famous carillon echo through the narrow streets up to eight times an hour.

Mechelen is a picturesque Flemish jewel. Hundreds of listed buildings, churches and monuments date back to the 16th century. You follow the course of the Beneden-Dijl and Nete rivers on quiet and flat paths. Historic Lier is not just about delicious food: The beguinage and the Belfry, a striking bell tower, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site some time ago. Antwerp is known as an important trading centre for diamonds. Art is not neglected in the harbour metropolis. And shopping fans can let off steam in the upmarket boutiques.

Antwerp is located on the Scheldt and you will be following it all day today. Lush green meadows and grazing cows accompany you on your cycle stage. The idyllic landscape alternates with picturesque Flemish villages. A cup of coffee is a great way to relax. A giant wooden horse symbolises the town of Dendermonde, today's stage destination. The Ross Bayard provides an unrivalled folk festival every ten years. The numerous restaurants on the historic market square will tantalise your taste buds in the evening.

Today you also follow the course of the Scheldt. The flat cycle paths along the banks guarantee a carefree cycling experience. Again and again you pass small Flemish villages, which are perfect for a break. At the end of the stage is Ghent, with its many cultural treasures. In the historic centre, the sights are strung together like pearls. In this trendy city, there is also plenty to enjoy: discover the culinary landscape of Flanders in the evening.

On today's stage, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape around the Leie. This picturesque region has inspired countless artists. The green landscape with its extensive forests is a true natural paradise. Neoclassical castles and small artists' villages line the route. You can admire the works of the painters in the local museums. Your destination Kortrijk has the charm of a big city with the cosiness of a village. Modern architecture, a centuries-old cultural heritage and passionate creativity mingle in the centre.

Don't waste too much time on your last stage, because Bruges awaits you at the end: arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. Your eyes will be spoilt for choice in this UNESCO World Heritage city. The medieval city centre has hardly changed since the 15th century. The canals guaranteed success and prosperity in the Middle Ages and made Bruges the Venice of the North. A perfect place to end your cycle tour along the historic art cities in beautiful Flanders.