Belgium

Had our first annual work trip of 2022 in the beginning of February to Brussels. Decided to also stay for the weekend and explore a bit. Visited Dinant and Gembloux.

Classic Chez Leon. Brussels without mussels does not work.

Dinant is a lovely town on the shores of river Meuse with picturesque views and packed with history.

Steps up to Citadelle de Dinant (all 405 of them). There is also the option to go up by cable car. Built in 1815, this fortress overlooks the city of Dinant and is part of the so-called ‘Meuse Citadels’. Up and inside one can read about the history and battles the city had to face, explore the grounds a bit and enjoy the gorgeous views.

A saxophone made out of glass - a beautiful piece of art by Bernard Tirtiaux, placed in the town hall's courtyard in 2014. The statue counted down days from its inauguration in February 2014 to 6 November 2014, the 200th birth anniversary of Adolphe Sax, the saxophone inventor. A drop of water fell in every 8 seconds.

Dinant is also home to Maison Leffe, dedicated to one of the most well-known Belgian Trappist beers. It offers a great look into the history of how Leffe was made, the tour in the museum is interactive and quite exciting to smell, touch, look and read about. There is a tasting in the end and they even give you a gift when exiting. All this considered the ticket was 10 EUR per person, that included all of the above. We were quite satisfied!