Nearby Ostend (www.ostend.be) is known as the ‘queen of Belgian seaside resorts’ because of its royal connections. The wide prom, calm air and sporty atmosphere – Belgians come here to sail, cycle and windsurf – make for a refreshing contrast with heritage-heavy Bruges. Ghent (www.gent.be), another historic port, is 25 miles away. Attractions include Gravensteen, the 12th-century Castle of the Counts and a design museum. Closer, Damme is a charming village that is accessible along the canal by bike or boat.

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