Travel back in time to the denouement of the last ice age when, with the warming of the earth, waters rose as the melting of the ice caps commenced: this was the birth of the North Sea we know today. From this event, the great northern European rivers of today were created, which in turn provided a landscape in which early peoples could eek an existence mining salt. Moving forward some centuries, ships could be brought in from the sea upon these rivers, and later still, the reclamation of the landscape in which rich alluvial soils had gathered to provide the perfect mix for farming pastureland.
This was the landscape through which we travelled today.
Unlike last year, our trip along the Gent -Brugge – Oostende was slowed upon catching a loaded barge that had passed through quite some prior to us departing Schipdonk.
There was a positive in this, as commercials aren’t required to wait long periods of time when it comes to locks and opening bridges, so with two lifting bridges ahead of us, we cruised through behind the barge.
Our mooring this year was in VVW Jachtclub Flandia, situated just outside of the Brugge township. With full facilities, including laundry, and shops nearby this quiet spot was the perfect place for us.
The bike path that runs along the waterway on which the old poorts are situated, is perfect for circumnavigating the township with ease when required.
Interesting Fact
- Brugge is pronounced as ‘oo’ in book. Brooge.
- With a massive downfall in trade during between the 1500 and 1900’s, the township of Brugge found itself in dearth of monies, which in turn meant the exquisite medieval architecture the township is so famous for today could not be replaced with new: how lucky are we!!
