Friday (4 August) marks International Beer Day, and given that it is one of Belgium's national symbols, there are fewer better places to celebrate the day.
From Belgian-style pale ales and lambics – a type of beer brewed in the Pajottenland region of Belgium southwest of Brussels and in Brussels itself since the 13th century – to strong ales and stouts, beer from this country is loved across the globe, also further proven by the fact Belgium is the second-largest beer exporter in the European Union.
However, the various brews are also much-loved within the country's borders. A total of 6.9 million hectolitres of beer were consumed in Belgium in 2022, and there are almost 400 brewers across the country.
While many would argue there are fewer better ways to spend the day or evening than simply sitting and sipping away at a pint, but on the occasion of International Beer Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of August since 2012, why not explore one of Belgium's exciting beer-related activities.
Bathing in beer
Perhaps the most unusual beer activity on the list is the Beer Spa in Brussels, where you will literally get to immerse yourself in beer. Not sure whether this is healthy? According to the creators of this experience, beer is rich in active enzymes and vitamins, especially vitamin B, softening the skin and giving the hair an extra shine.
Credit: Good Beer Spa
A dip in the tipple reportedly also refreshes the body and mind, improves circulation, and removes toxins. However, as visitors are offered unlimited beer during their beer spa session, it remains to be seen how fresh people are when they leave.
Find more information here.
Discovering Trappists by bicycle
Looking to combine beer with the great outdoors? Why not try the Trappist route in and around Malle, in the province of Antwerp, which was recently voted one of Belgium's most beloved cycling routes.
Cycle past the enchanting Abbey of Westmalle. Credit: Westmalle trappist
The route, which can be followed for a distance of 44km or 30km, puts the region's iconic beers in the spotlight, including the Westmalle Abbey where monks have been brewing their world-famous Trappist beer for 200 years to Our Lady of Nazareth Abbey, the home of the Trappist nuns. Finish off on the loop at Café Trappisten to wind down with a well-earned beer.
Find more information here.
Zythologist tour of Liège
What better way to explore a city than through beer goggles? This beer-tasting tour of the picturesque city of Liège with a zythologist – zythology is the study of beer and beer making – takes visitors on a stroll through its rich brewing past and makes stops at unique locations, including breweries and iconic bars.
A Liège brewery. Credit: Belga/ Axel Cleenewerck
Aside from learning about the Walloon city's beer history, you will also find out the real way to taste beer using all your senses during several tastings in local bars.
Find more information here.
Bruges' authentic home brewery
Located in the heart of the picturesque city of Bruges, De Halve Maan is an authentic family brewery. The family began running it on the Walplein in 1856 – and is among the most visited brewery in Belgium.
Credit: De Halve Maan
Take a look behind the scenes of the family-run brewery during a guided tour of the brewery, including the many brewing installations used over the last few centuries and the unique 360° view of Bruges from the roof, finished off with a tasting of its most beloved beers, the unfiltered Brugse Zot Blond, Brugse Zot Dubbel or Straffe Hendrik Tripel. For beer fanatics, there is the XL Tour, which also allows you to discover the rich flavours of De Halve Maan's special beers.
Find more information here.
Combining best of Belgium
For those who can't decide whether they love Belgian beer more than the country's chocolate, the Bierolade activities organised by Werner Callebaut offer the best of both worlds, combining the two divine flavours that will transport you to seventh heaven.
During the beer and chocolate tasting, unique combinations between the two top Belgian products are created. Some local craft beers on the menu offer a harmonious taste with the chocolate, while others present a spicy contrast. Laced with juicy stories about the history of Belgian beer, this experience is unlike any other.
Find more information here.
