Begijnhof and Minnewater, Bruges

The Begijnhof is a peaceful walled courtyard of white houses around a lawn of tall trees, founded in 1245 for the beguines, lay religious women. Today it's home to Benedictine nuns and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's free to walk in, and in spring the lawn is carpeted with daffodils. Please keep quiet.

Just beyond is the Minnewater, the 'Lake of Love', a former harbour basin with swans and a park, and a lovely place for a stroll away from the crowds. A horse-drawn carriage ride around the cobbled streets often stops here.