The Only Country Where Beer is a UNESCO World Treasure

If you told us a few months ago that we would be drinking beer, in a country where it is considered a world cultural heritage, we would have laughed (probably mid-sip of a Philippine ale). But here we are, on a canal trip through Belgium.  And I can confidently say this country has elevated beer to an art form.  And possibly a religion.

Now, before I go losing all my non beer drinkers, who are no doubt rolling their eyes, let me tell you: It’s not just beer.  At least not here.  It’s about the traditions, the people, and the passion.  These brewers aren’t just making beer, it’s a way of life and an actual UNESCO-recognized heritage.

That’s right, for Belgian’s, beer is so engrained in their culture it’s protected like the Taj Mahal.  And we are sipping our way through it.  Because every barrel tells a story, and every brew is a tribute to craftsmanship passed down through generations.  So give the video a watch and by the end, we hope you’ll better understand what we’re waxing on about. 

If wine is the muse of France’s fine art,
Then beer is Belgium’s beating heart.
A symphony poured in amber and gold,
A tapestry rich, a story retold.
Where monks once whispered in corridors deep,
Crafting secrets their barrels keep.
From Trappist ales to lambic’s surprise,
Each sip unveils where history lies.
So, raise a glass, let the story flow,
Of Belgium’s brews, where passions grow.
For as wine to France is cherished near,
To Belgium’s soul, there’s nothing like beer.

Our Accidental Marina Stay

If you want a marina off the beaten path when in Gent, then we can recommend Jachthaven GLV: jachthavenglv.be It may not have been our initially intended stop but it was kismet.

A big thanks to the marina manager and our new friend Lesley for spending time with a couple of beer enthusiastic travelers on your day off.

Deliriously Good Time

Serendipity was seriously on our side in Gent. Because what are the odds that we would pop into a marina, get to chatting about our Delirium Brewery tour we had just booked, all while unknowingly standing next to the family owners! They could have simply said hello and gone about their evening but they didn't. They instantly invited us to join them for a beer. Belgian hospitality knows no bounds.

Thank you to the De Laet family and our fabulous guide Simon for a deliriously good time. Should you find yourself in Gent, and you should, make sure to take the full tour for yourself. Brewery Huyghe: brouwerijhuyghe.be/en/visit