© Westtoer © Westtoer © Westtoer © Westtoer
Welcome Back to Flandes Fields come Back to Flandes Fields
“It’s not the same without our visitors, we miss you” is the catch cry from the locals in Flanders Fields.
Located in the west of Belgium, the region of Flanders Fields is synonymous with some of the most treacherous battlefields of World War One.
Despite the devastation of the region over 100 years ago, today Flanders Fields is a beautiful and serene area, interspersed with charming cobblestone towns and villages. Visitors can see and do a lot in a just a few days in the compact region.
5th Australian Division Memorial © Copper Tree Media
Welcome Back to Flandes Fields CWGC Tyne Cot Cemetery
Flanders Fields © Westtoer
At the heart of Flanders Fields is Ypres (or Ieper as it is known officially in Flemish). There is something inexplicable about the connection many visitors feel when in Ypres, whether it’s a sense of living history, a family association or the warm welcome from the locals, it’s a special place that goes straight to the heart of travellers. Standing proudly in the centre of Ypres is the magnificent Cloth Hall, a reminder that this city was one of Europe’s most important trading centres, and that today houses both the In Flanders Fields Museum and Yper Museum; it’s also possible to ascend the building’s belfry tower to enjoy far- reaching views over the surrounding landscapes. A short walk takes you to the Menin Gate memorial, where, every evening at 8 o’clock, visitors can observe the Last Post ceremony being performed by the volunteer buglers of the Last Post Association in honour of the soldiers that died during the First World War.
Outside of Ypres, there are many nearby points of interest for those looking to discover the history of this region. As well as the hundreds of cemeteries, including Tyne Cot, the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the world and Lijssenthoek, adjacent to where a WW1 field hospital was located, the area has many museums, renowned for welcoming visitors of all ages, such the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, Hooge Crater Museum and Talbot House, the everyman’s club in Poperinge,
Stephen Lodewyck, Director of the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres says, “Since 2020 we miss our visitors from abroad, who travel to share their history with us on the former battlefields, under the Menin Gate during the Last Post and in the “In Flanders Fields Museum” in Ypres. But out of sight is not out of mind, on the contrary, during the lockdown investments and refurbishments have enhanced the attractions on offer.
Ypres © Thierry Caignie – Westtoer
Aside from WW1 history, Flanders Fields is also well known for being home to some of the best breweries in Belgium and some excellent chocolatiers. There are also numerous walking and cycling paths available for those looking for an active way to discover the region’s history and landscapes.
The Last Post at The Menin Gate © Milo Profi
Welcome Back to Flanders Fields Pass
Available for travel until 30 September 2022, the “Welcome Back to Flanders Fields Pass” offers visitors discounts or free entry to museums, day tours, tour guiding and more. Simply book an overnight stay with a participating accommodation facility in the region. For more details visit:
visitflanders.com/en/themes/flanders_fields/welcomeback
@flandersfields14_18 VF Nat Geo Travel Mag
page.indd 1 17/05/2022 10:16 am
Flanders Fields looks forward to welcoming you soon – whether it be a first time visit or to reconnect with the region.
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