Minnewater Park in Brugge, Belgium, is a peaceful and beautiful public space that serves as a perfect retreat from the busy city center. The park features the lovely Minnewater Lake, surrounded by greenery and walking paths, making it a great spot for a quiet stroll or a moment of contemplation. A notable feature is the gatehouse of a demolished castle, which contributes a historical charm to the park's enchanting environment.
During the Christmas season, the park turns into a winter wonderland with a synthetic ice skating rink. Having experience in skating, I was excited to try it out. However, I found skating on the plastic surface to be quite challenging, as it felt like skating underwater with a grip that hindered movement. Nevertheless, the rink adds to the festive atmosphere of the park.
On a brighter note, Minnewater Park has a lovely outdoor café where visitors can enjoy warm drinks, enhancing the cozy holiday feel. With tranquil lake views and a peaceful environment, it’s a great place to relax and sip a drink. Despite the synthetic ice rink being less than ideal for skating lovers, Minnewater Park is a charming destination, offering a wonderful blend of natural beauty, history, and festive joy during the holiday season.
Walking along the river is incredibly romantic, especially in winter. We enjoyed a visit with fewer tourists around (there were still some, but not overcrowded). The peaceful atmosphere of the small town took us back in time, almost like stepping into a cartoon scene. Our time in Belgium was absolutely wonderful, and we fell in love with this place - it is a must-visit for anyone traveling in Belgium, even more impressive than Brussels, to be honest.
The park is situated close to the historical center, lined with beautiful buildings on one side and the Lake of Love on the other. Remarkably, the grass stays green even in winter, making it perfect for a peaceful and enjoyable stroll.
It has been 9 years since my last visit here, but I still reminisce about the delicious waffles and the fresh breeze. Autumn is the ideal time to explore this place; I visited in October 2015.
This park is beautiful, offering serene settings away from the bustling city center. It’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours walking and enjoying the atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants and cafes at the north east entrance.