Well, yesterday was all smiles as I was so sure I was heading to the Italian Alps for either a romantic Valentine’s Day break or a ski adventure par excellence. But today brings new horizons and the closer to home Bruges, has wormed its way into my heart and really sneaked under my skin.  I love Bruges in the summer but have discovered that they really know how to ’do’ winter as well!

One of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Europe, Bruges is just the thing for tender strolls along the cobbled streets and lots of warm cafes and restaurants along the way.

Whether you opt for a classy four star hotel or a charming B&B one thing is certain in Bruges there’s always plenty of choice and awesome things to do.

Some places in Bruges are so beautiful, that you have no choice but to feel alive!  The Beguinage is just such a beauty spot.  Once you’ve ambled through its quiet inner court, its purity will leave you speechless.  While away your time along the romantic Minnewater, where you will fully enjoy the age old view….just the thing to rest those weary 2014 bones!! 

And then pop off to De Halve Maan (Half Moon), an authentic and historic brewery in the centre of Bruges.  This family owned brewery stretches back to 1856 and even offers tours and tastings… ahhh perfect! Follow that with a visit to Craenburg which is the last ‘real’ café on the market square. It is a favourite among local people catching up on all the latest city gossip and news. Dinner at Diligence, to experience the most plain and simple Flemish dishes….no frills and fuss, but warm and friendly, the perfect end to a perfect day…..

One of my all-time favourite things to do when I want to take a breather, I stroll down to Saint Anne’s, Bruges’ most striking working class neighbourhood, sneaking in to ‘Our Lady of the Pottery’, the Lace Centre, the medieval Jerusalem Chapel and the Gezelle Museum.  I can’t wait to then have a plate of Moules Mariniere, a fistful of handmade chocolates and a decadent hot chocolate….heaven.

The canals, the coffee, even the coffee shops…. I’m breathing out and melting as I write. I can’t wait to sit in the square, forget about life and daydream inconsequential thoughts as I sip a morning cappuccino and watch life moving around me at the tranquil pace it always seems to move at in Bruges.  Oh the people, the place, the food, the chocolate…..the most romantic city ever…

Or is it?  What about….watch this space…