The Ultimate Road Trip: From Asten, Noord-Brabant to Menen, West-Vlaanderen

Are you in the mood for a road trip? Look no further as we have your next taste of adventure mapped out for you! Starting from the charming town of Asten, Noord-Brabant in Netherlands, we have put together a list of stops that you can't miss until you reach Menen, West-Vlaanderen in Belgium. These stops encompass the very essence of what makes Europe an attractive destination – picturesque towns, stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. So buckle up, fuel up and let's roll!

The Best Places to See When Driving from Asten, Noord-Brabant to Menen, West-Vlaanderen

1. Roermond, Limburg

We begin our journey with a bang and drive down to one of the most charming towns in the Dutch province of Limburg – Roermond. The streets of Roermond are lined with 800-year-old houses and shops that are sure to take you back in time. One of the must-visit streets is the Munsterstraat, which leads to the Neerstraat – a bustling shopping district with an impressive church towering over it. Once you are here, make sure to take a stroll down the waterside, cross the bridges and get lost in the labyrinth of the city's backstreets. For foodies, try out the "vlaai" – a classic Limburgian tart that is famous in this region.

2. Maastricht, Limburg

As you drive out of Roermond, it's time to head to the beautiful city of Maastricht, which is just a 30-minute drive away. Nestled alongside the river Meuse, Maastricht offers an endless list of attractions to explore. One of the must-visit places is the medieval fortress and ancestral home of the Dutch royal family – the Castle of Valkenburg. For thrill-seekers, explore the North Caves – a subterranean maze that stretches for 80 kilometres beneath the city. Be sure to sample some of Maastricht's amazing local cuisine – from the authentic Dutch herring to the tasty Limburg Beer.

3. Liege, Wallonia

Our road trip now takes us to Belgium – more specifically the charming town of Liege in Wallonia. Nestled at the foot of the Ardennes, this French-speaking city sits among the hills beside the winding river Meuse. Liege is home to an impressive 17th-century palace – the Palace of the Prince-Bishops, which now houses a museum displaying the art and history of this region. A food lover's paradise, Liege is home to the famous Belgian waffles, the delectable "Boulets", and the world-renowned Belgian Beer.

4. Gent, Flanders

Our next stop is the historical city of Gent, situated in the Flemish region of Belgium. This medieval city has a plethora of attractions to offer such as the Gravensteen castle, St Baaf's Cathedral, and the Graslei waterfront with its beautiful pedestrianised walkway and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Saint Nicholas Church located in the heart of the city and the iconic Belfry of Ghent, which dates back to the late 14th century. Treat yourself to a box of classic Belgian chocolates and a pint of the famous Belgian beer while you are here.

5. Kortrijk, West-Vlaanderen

Finally, we arrive at our last but certainly not least stop – the town of Kortrijk, located in West Flanders, Belgium. The history of this town dates back to Roman times, making it a paradise for history buffs. The Kortrijk Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit when you are here, and the Broel Towers at the river Lys are a beautiful representation of Gothic architecture. Foodies should sample the famous Belgian Frites – these delicious fresh cut fries that are offered here in every food stall!

Conclusion

While these are just five stops on the way, the road trip from Asten, Noord-Brabant to Menen, West-Vlaanderen is full of continuous surprises and discoveries. Not only will you be surprised by the stunning scenery, but also encounter the rich history and charm of the towns and its inhabitants. So pack your bags, fill up your tanks, apply sunscreen and head on down to your next ultimate road trip!