These days we need to be more creative with our travel plans, embrace the idea of a staycation or take road trips if we want to refresh our minds and escape for a bit this summer. It does feel odd going on vacation while taking with us the very thing we are trying to get away from ~ The Corona. On the other hand, let us take what we can get and make the most of it, right?

Last weekend it was time to finally take our first road trip after five long months of having to stay put, a record for me might I add what I hope to never repeat lol...And so, a 3-hour drive from Amsterdam brought us to the Belgian coast! 

The coastline is 65 km long. It has a beautiful stretch of beach where you can sunbathe, enjoy the seaside, and even watch seals! There are vibrant historical towns filled with charm, atmosphere and color to visit when you're done tanning such as Gent and Brugge. It is so pretty and laid back here and the beaches are spacious and wide. Even though it is relatively close by it did feel like a proper holiday!

We chose to stay in Oostende. It has a buzzing seafront! Gorgeous views, beach clubs to enjoy during the day, and a happening boulevard to enjoy at night.

Where To Stay In Oostende?

We had a very pleasant stay at The Thermae Palace. It is grand! Very big and ideally located on the promenade so within walking distance everywhere. They offer rooms with sea views for extra enjoyment.

5 X Golden Tips For Oostende

Spend time on the beach: White sandy beaches with amenities to be found all along the promenade so you can claim your favorite spot for the day. My favorite beach club was the Buddha beach club, located halfway through the promenade. It had amazingly fun vibes, delish bites and drinks, and all the facilities you need to enjoy the day.

Explore the city center: Stop by the neo-Gothic St. Peter Churchs of St. Peter and St. Paul, it's stunning with its soaring spires! Have a coffee pitstop or try an oyster dish during the season in the main market square while you take in the vibes. Every Saturday there's a market to snoop through in this very square.

Rent an electric step to satisfy your need for speed. It's also a fun way to enjoy the vibes along the beach and getting around.

Walk to the end of the boulevard in the direction of the marina, you'll find a long pier you can walk along and watch out for a colony of seals calling this beach home.

Visit Fort Napoleon: It was built in the Napoleonic era back in 1811 because Napoleon Bonaparte expected a British assault from the sea on this port and so this fort was built to hold it off. The attack never came and it served the French army in other ways. 

Lunch tip: De Smoefeloare serves the BEST sandwiches in town! Address: Wittenonnenstraat 27

Evening tip: Have drinks while watching the sunset in the Martini Piazza on the promenade.

Bonus Tips!

Spend a day/afternoon in Brugge located a short 30 min drive from Oostende; picturastic, charming, filled with color, beautiful architecture, and of course world-famous chocolate! It is an absolute must-visit!

Travel Guide For Brugge

Another beautiful spot to enjoy along the Belgian coast is in Knokke-Heist: It is on the smaller side compared to Oostende, famous for being posh with stylish boutiques and restaurants. Besides the beautiful beaches, you can visit the Zwin Nature Park; salt marshes, and mudflats to explore.

I hope you get a chance to travel this summer ~ Have a good one!

Yours,

Diti

P.S Don’t forget to follow me on social media for more travel content and inspiration ~ @mytrendytrail