A chance to relax in historic Hasselt
The Belgian city of Hasselt, capital of the Limburg province in Flanders, provides visitors with a peaceful yet fascinating insight into national culture.
The city is well known in the region for its status as a focal point for shopping and fashion, but there is a relatively undiscovered side to Hasselt that is equally rewarding.
Located just outside the city centre, and easily accessible via the numerous free buses that serve the town's populace, is Hasselt's Japanese garden. The largest of its kind in Europe, the garden was built with the help of sister city Itami, Japan, and features waterfalls, a tea house and over 250 Japanese cherry trees.
Further nature-based excursions can be undertaken at the recently-opened Herkenrode herb garden, found within the grounds of the historic Cistercian Abbey site. The site itself is undergoing extensive renovation to restore it to its former glory.
The city's cultural heritage can be explored in Hasselt's Belgie Art Centre, and in a separate cultural centre that stages over 250 artistic performances every year.
A more prominent example of Hasselt's history comes in the shape of the annual Genever Festival, which celebrates the region's favourite gin-based beverage. Other culinary offerings include the Hasselt Speculoos, spicy cookies usually eaten over the Christmas period.
Architectural attractions include the T Sweert house in the city's market square, an old-fashioned timbered house that has now stood for almost 550 years, while St Quentin's Cathedral and the 700 year old Virgia Jesse Basilica provide a similar chance to experience cultures of old. With such a wide variety of attractions available, Hasselt makes a great place to spend a short break.
© Adfero Ltd
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