belgium & the netherlands

Brewery tour

This itinerary was created for a couple with two goals for their vacation: She is a painter and wanted to explore the stomping grounds of Van Gogh and soak up Amsterdam’s unparalleled art scene; he is a dedicated home brewer who wanted to learn century’s old beer-making magic from Master Brewers in Belgium.

Day 1 : Arrive in Amsterdam. Board a train to Bruges. Overnight at a local bed and breakfast.
Day 2 : Afternoon tour of Huisbrouwerij de Halve Maan Brewery.
Day 3 : Free day in Bruges.
Day 4 : Train to Brussels. Self guided tour of Cantillon Brewery.
Day 5 : Pick up rental car. Drive to Dinant. Overnight.
Day 6 : Kayak the River Lesse, stopping at riverside breweries along the way. Hike to the limestone caves.
Day 7 : Full day driving tour of The Ardennes. Explore breweries and hiking opportunities along the way.
Day 8 : Transfer to Amsterdam. This evening, enjoy an exclusive brewmaster’s dinner featuring six courses with beer pairings, and talks by the brewmasters on the yeasts used in each beer.
Day 9 : This morning, take off on a canal cruise with brunch and cocktails. Afternoon tour of Brouwerij Brewery.
Day 10 : Private tour of the Van Gogh Museum with a docent.  Free afternoon.
Day 11 : Depart Amsterdam. Fly home.

Photos:

Banner: Walking the canals in Amsterdam - The Netherlands (Sarah Rogala)

Bottom Left: Kayaking from brewery to brewery on the River Lesse - Dinant, Belgium (Bryan Rogala)

Bottom Right: Craft beer collected throughout Belgium and The Netherlands (Bryan Rogala)