Bokrijk

Flanders

The northern part of Belgium is known as Flanders. All Flemish towns are brimming with quaint medieval squares, tree-lined canals, gorgeous architectural facades, world class museums, trendy fashion and designer boutiques, and friendly outdoor cafés perfect for sipping on one of the many hundreds of different local beers. And – not to forget – the best chocolate in the world...Travelling to Flanders is an unforgettable experience!

The Open Air Museum Bokrijk is not as its name might (wrongly) suggest a "museum" â this is a vast nature reserve, where the habits and customs of the Flemish people in the old days are brought to live.

You literally walk into the past: uniquely restored ancient houses, farms and gardens kept up with techniques now long forgotten, and local residents in period costume who live their lives as if time stood still. You can travel back in time, and try your hand at making pottery, baking bread, or weaving baskets â and watch craftsmen such as the spinner, miller and tanner demonstrate old techniques. Or go to school as it was over a century ago. And have your photo taken in classic attire, with a camera dating back to long before digital.

Oh, and don't forget to explore the largest open air playground in Europe: hours of free fun guaranteed.

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Not to Miss

Horse and cart

Experience the museum in a different way: strong horses pull the wagon forward. A great way to explore the entire museum and find out what you want to do the most...

Arts and Crafts

Together with local craftsmen you and your kids learn about some of the oldest crafts. You learn to turn clay, and get to take home your very own piece of pottery. Or learn how to bake bread – and sample it too, of course. The spinner, miller and basket weaver let you in on the tricks and trades of their crafts. Or become a local inhabitant and join the schoolteacher, pastor, farmer and the farmer's wife in their daily work. Picture perfect: have your photo taken in classic attire. Smile!

The Sixties

Were you part of the sixties and do you still long for this era? Or did you miss out on them and would you like to experience what it was like? The sixties are brought back to life in Bokrijk: this vast section in the museum offers an interactive sensation that takes you back to the golden years.

Free playground

Bokrijk is heaven on earth for kids. They can romp and roll through the biggest free playground in Europe with swings and slides. Small children can play to their heart’s content at the toddler village, the brand new play area, the pony track and the mini-cars.

Local Specialities

Take at seat at one of the attractive inns in Bokrijk, and sample wonderful regional dishes such as country platters, Flemish stews and buckwheat pancakes. Of course, served with a freshly poured beer...

And afterwards, do drop by the local candy store!