The Ypres Salient was the scene of some of the most ferocious battles of the First World War.  The many cemeteries and memorials in the area are a constant reminder and bear witness to the huge loss of lives and terrible conflict.

During The Great War the town of Ypres was completely destroyed and was been carefully rebuilt.  The Menin Gate bears the names of almost 55,000 British soldiers lost and without known graves.  The Last Post Ceremony takes place here every evening.  In the former Cloth Hall is the In Flanders Museum, a modern multi-media interactive museum which allows groups to study particular WWI themes on various levels.

At Raversijde, 5km from Ostend is the Atlantic Wall open air museum which stretches for two kilometres.  It has approximately sixty bunkers and trenches dating from both World Wars. Two separate tours are possible which focus on either First or Second World War batteries.  The nearby town of Ostend has a colourful fish market and a long sandy beach.

In complete contrast to the Great War sites is the city of Bruges, the capital of West Flanders.  It is a beautifully preserved medieval city with cobbled streets, gabled houses and canals.  It is an excellent location for a relaxing day visit.  Boat trips on the canals and a visit to the chocolate museum are possible.