Our day today was spent exploring the medieval city of Bruges. After a hearty breakfast at the hostel, the group set out for the center of the city, the Markt. Here, the group climbed the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry of Bruges and received a spectacular 360 degree view of the surrounding area. Also at the Belfry, the group received a rude awakening at the top of the hour by the bell tower. After descending the stairs, the group joined others on a walking tour of the city. The tour taught all about the history and legends of the city. This included stories behind the city's swans and the names of landmarks. After the tour, the group made their way to a nearby shop for artisanal bagel sandwiches. After lunch, the group was on the hunt for Belgian chocolates and waffles. In the afternoon, the group toured the Gruuthuse Museum and the Church of our Lady Bruges. After a long day of city touring, the group split and some did laundry and others prepared dinner in the hostel kitchen. After a long day of discovering Bruges, the team is resting easy in preparation for their last day of true bicycle trekking.
