Belgium

Only two hours' drive from Calais and you will be in the heart of Belgium. This little country is a land of forests, rivers and deep valley crossed by numerous footpaths and tracks. This is a small unspoilt land with medieval castles and ancients hamlets. It is a country of two distinct halves. Dutch-speaking Flanders in northern Belgium has a flat, often monotonous landscape, but it is also home to some wonderfulhistoric cities. These lie close together and are conveniently interconnected by regular trains, making travel by public transport seamless. However, in French-speaking Wallonia in southern Belgium, most attractions are contrastingly rural with many caves, castles and outdoor activities including horse riding. The rolling farmland, scenic country with many wooded areas and rivers offer wonderful trails for horse riders. Given the compact size of the country and the proximity to the UK, you will find a fascinating countryside waiting to be discovered from the back of a horse. From the Middle Ages up until the 18th century, southern Belgium was a patchwork of principalities, duchies and earldoms, each of which had its own chateau. These days, many of these fantastic properties have been restored to their former glory and can now be visited or stayed in. The food in Belgium is also worth a visit in its own right with delicious Ardennes pate, rich game dishes and creamy chocolates and, of course, beer.