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09/05/2008Great Belgian Getaways

Keen to kick clear of the city, we explore four of the best weekend getaways in Belgium.

Nowhere in Belgium is too far, so here are some ideas for getting away from it all and breaking free of the city.

Be careful if driving during public holidays — traffic jams are common, especially on the coast roads in summer. The trains offer reduced fares at weekends as well as group and family specials.

Taking the Plunge
The eponymous town of Spa can take away the stress of modern life. Located in the heart of the Ardennes, it takes around two hours to reach by train.

Spa's sulphurous waters were originally discovered by the Romans, although it was to be another half century before it became famous as a resort.

After falling into 19th century disrepair and disregard, Spa has, since 2004, been transformed into a magnificent therapy and relaxation centre, worthy of a new millennium.

Go to relax, to be pampered, to take the waters and to enjoy the town itself and the surrounding forest.

Thermes de Spa
Colline d'Annette et Lubin
4900 Spa
087 77 25 60
www.thermesdespa.com


Dipping your Toes
The Belgian coastline is only 64km long, but it embraces the best of kiss-me-quick seaside activities, sophisticated living and wildlife sanctuaries

Oostende is a good place to head for if you want a taste of royal Belgium, for this place is known as the Queen of Belgian Resorts.

The royal bit comes from the fact that Leopold II built a fair number of villas there and even Queen Victoria crossed the channel to visit and take a paddle.

Much of Oostende was bombed during World War II, but what is left of the old is impressive.




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