Dolly's Bike Blog

Musings about fun between my legs

Ypres to Tournai: Sept. 30

The early miles this morning were fast, few turns and rolling countryside.  Our first stop was in Kortrijk on the Leie River with canals.  We were encouraged to visit the Beguinage, built near the end of the 13th century.  This area is described as an architectural complex which was created to house lay religious women who lived in community without taking vows or retiring from the world.  While walking in the Grote Markt we came upon a community band and dedication of a memorial wreath.  According to Siri, Sept 30 is observed due to the Third Battle of Ypres in West Flanders. We also visited Our Lady’s Church in Gothic style. built to celebrate the Counts of Flanders.  All morning we saw many cyclists enjoying the sunny Sunday and smooth roads.

Not far from Kortrijk, we entered Wallonia, the French-speaking part of Belgium – no borderline but the signage changed suddenly.

We stopped briefly at a Medieval Festival in St Leger, but did not wait for the combat exhibition.  I did take photos of swords and shields for my grandson Yoseph.  Also posed with a Templar, plus a King and Queen.

While riding along one of the canals, we passed several large piles of sugar beets.  We also saw harvested potatoes and fields of cabbage and more leeks.

We are staying tonight and tomorrow in Tournai at the Hotel d’Alcantara.

39.2 miles

 

 

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