European River Cruises Through Beautiful Belgium

Few holidays can claim to be more relaxing than European river cruises. The attractions of taking a break like this in places such as the UK or France are well known, but the opportunities to do so in a lesser-known destination like Belgium are sometimes overlooked.

Belgium – hiding amongst the big countries

To some extent, Belgium has always been overshadowed by some of the countries surrounding it. Its early-mid 20th century history with Germany is unfortunately a story of tragedy, with many of the facts being all too familiar - particularly as the centenary of the First World War approaches. At times in the past France has also seen it as ripe territory for annexation.

Another fact that is little known, other than to students of European history, is that Belgium fought a fairly bitter war for independence against Holland, as it was once part of the southern provinces of the Netherlands. As a result of this troubled history, Belgium has always been very aware of some of its bigger and more powerful neighbours. As such, it has perhaps not been too upset at times to be forgotten about when potentially controversial issues were up for discussion amongst the major powers.

While that all may seem to have little relevance to the quality of European river cruises in Belgium today, this is a fascinating country with an incredibly rich and varied history just begging to be explored.

Multiculturalism

The modern country of Belgium is often described as being divided between the French-speaking Walloons in the south and the Flemish (Dutch) speaking north. In fact, its cultural diversity has its origins in many different strands. Cities and surrounding areas such as Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Liege and Bruges were all historically at times either independent or under Spanish, Dutch, German or French rule – although that is something of a simplification.

This means that its cultural histories and legacies are amongst some of the richest and most diverse in Europe. In fact, over time so many different states and cultures have been in conflict within the boundaries of what we today call Belgium, that the entire area was once known as "The Battlefield of Europe".

However, this ancient history of occupation and development has led to Belgium having some of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in the world – a major draw for those on European river cruises. Of these, Bruges is arguably the best known; it is sometimes referred to as the "Venice of the north", due to its extensive canal network and preserved medieval buildings. However, all of the other cities mentioned above are well worth visiting and exploring in detail too.

It is also the case that some, to the slight irritation of the French, maintain that the major Belgian cities offer a cuisine that’s at least comparable to the best of France - and arguably better than it in some cases. That’s because due to its rich and diverse history, a fusion of French and northern European cuisine has evolved into something quite unique.

Taking a cruise on the Belgian canals and waterways is a truly fascinating experience. The countryside is pastoral and broken up by charming villages and some of the above-mentioned breathtakingly beautiful towns. Those who make the decision to go on European river cruises here will experience and embarrassment of riches in this small but perfectly formed country.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for European river cruises we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.