Bruges Christmas markets
Alma the Adria is water side, on an island !! – well ok it’s a small island, more spare bit of land between the river and marina, but either way we’ve got views of boats right from front window !
Quite often this city is referred to as the “Venice of the North,” very enchanting any time of year. But when winter settles in, the city transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and cozy warmth.
With no real plan as to where we are heading we took the magical opportunity to experience and let me tell you, it surpassed even my wildest fairytale dreams.
That right folks I’m talking Bruges !!
With the official motorhome aire a few minutes walk from the old town, it couldn’t be better placed to allow you the chance to experience all this city has to offer.
As a bonus we are being lulled in to this winter wonderland, The crisp air nips at our cheeks, the cobbled streets glisten with frost, and fairy lights twinkle like fallen stars from every corner snow is promised on the forecast
It’s a season that transforms the city into a living fairytale!
In an effort to get us in the festive mood, we come in search of markets.
Bruges’ Christmas markets are legendary, with festive stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, and the irresistible aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filling the air.
We’ve just come to accept that we need to Wander through the Markets, joining the throngs of other tourists and then occasionally pop down a side street and explore the smaller squares for a more intimate experience.
This time of year is extra special, the city is transformed into a luminous wonderland with the “Winter Glow” festival. Illuminated sculptures and light installations weave through the city, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Stroll along the Groenerei Canal, where shimmering reflections dance on the water, or marvel at the magical light projections on the Belfry.
Away from the markets and winter illuminations, Bruges is famous for something else ……
The place is a maze of cobbled streets, each corner revealing a Willy Wonka akin treasure trove.
Peek into charming chocolate shops filled with glistening pralines, delicate truffles, and every other chocolate combination your mind can think of !
Now let’s not imagine, that I (Paul) was going to let Michele just have a lovely time looking at Christmas tat and indulging in numerous glasses of mulled wine, did you ?
For me a trip to Bruges would never have been complete without a trip to the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
This 12th-century chapel houses a revered vial said to contain a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus Christ (allegedly)
Whether you’re a religious pilgrim or simply intrigued by history, the story of the Holy Blood is captivating.
Legend has it that Joseph of Arimathea collected Christ’s blood after the crucifixion and that the cloth eventually made its way to Bruges following the Crusades.
The tiny vial containing the cloth is displayed in the upper chapel, adorned with gold and precious stones. Every day, visitors from all over the world come to see it and I was going to be one of those!
Bruges in winter is a city that stays with you long after you leave. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where the air crackles with anticipation, and where every corner reveals a new hidden gem. So, if you’re looking for a magical winter escape
Paul.
Watch the video here :-
And here:-