Remembrance tour. The fairytale city of Bruges & the poppies of Flanders Fields

Greet your guide at the central Brussels meeting point. Climb aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and admire the scenic surroundings as your travel towards the town of Vladslo. Disembark and explore the German Military Cemetery of Vladslo, a poignantly peaceful area that features the famous sculpture by Käthe Kollwitz, 'Grieving Parents.'  

Next, venture to the small city of Diksmuide and see a stretch of the Western Front that symbolizes Belgium’s courage and heroism during the conflict. See impressive monuments such as the monument of the "Brooding Soldier" dedicated to the sacrifice of 2,000 Canadian soldiers during the first German gas attack.

Head to the Flanders' Field Museum and hear fascinating tales of violent warfare and the dank conditions soldiers lived in then enrich your knowledge with the comprehensive exhibitions.

Stop at the somnolent town of Passchendaele and discover how a bloody battlefield underwent a radical transformation into this quaint place. Then head to the Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery to reflect upon the 35,000 graves that immortalize the memory of fallen soldiers. 

Next, travel to Essex Farm Field Hospital and see the bunkers that inspired John McCrae to write his influential poem, 'In Flanders’ Field.'

Venture to Hill 60 to see some strategic tunnels then disembark at the picturesque town of Ypres to enjoy some independent exploration and dinner (own expense). Reconvene with your guide at a pre-arranged time to witness to soul-stirring Last Post Ceremony at Ypres’ Menin Gate. Absorb the saddening simplicity of the service then return to your vehicle for the drive back to Brussels.