Planning a Golf Trip to Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium's capital and the heart of Europe, is an excellent golfing location. Not only can you enjoy the city's attractions, nightlife, and cuisine, but you can also play on some of the country's top golf courses. Here are some suggestions for planning your golf trip to Brussels, Belgium.

Select Your Hotel

Brussels provides a wide range of hotels to meet your needs and budget. There are luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and budget hotels to select from. The following are some of the best golf hotels:

Martin's Brussels EU- is a three-star hotel in Brussels' European area, close to The National Golf Brussels and the Royal Belgium Golf Club. It features comfortable rooms with colourful accents, a fitness centre, a bar, and an international restaurant. It also provides free parking and shuttle service to and from the airport and the city centre.

Martin's Chateau du Lac- This five-star hotel is located near the Royal Bercuit Golf Club and the Golf du Chateau de la Tournette on the shores of Lake Genval. It features exquisite rooms with lake views, an indoor pool and jacuzzi, a bar with fireplace and patio, and a restaurant with panoramic views. Golfers can also take advantage of special packages.

Hotel Golf De Pierpont- Surrounded by a beautiful golf course, this hotel offers free WiFi, flat-screen TV, coffee and tea supplies, and private bathrooms in each room. For an additional fee, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, an à la carte meal including Belgo-International cuisine, and a round of golf. Brussels South Charleroi Airport is only 15 minutes away.

Select Your Courses

Within an hour's drive of the city centre, there are more than 15 golf courses. Courses can be found in several directions from Brussels, including north, south, east, and west. You can select a course that best meets your skill level and preferences. Some of the top courses in Brussels are as follows:

Royal Waterloo Golf Club: Set in magnificent countryside, this club features two 18-hole courses and a 9-hole course. The La Marache course is the most difficult, with three par-5s and several gorgeous par-3s to end. The Le Lion course is more forgiving, but accuracy and strategy are still required. The Bois Heros course is a gorgeous and enjoyable 9-hole course.

Golf Club Royal Bercuit: This club is situated Grez-Doiceau, Wallonia, some 30 km southeast of Brussels. The only Robert Trent Jones designed course in Belgium, it has hosted events on both the European Tour and the Ladies European Tour. The course is hilly and wooded, including water hazards and bunkers.

The National Golf Brussels: This is Belgium's newest golf club, having opened in 2018. Bruno Steensels created the current championship course, which includes water hazards, elevation changes, and beautiful vistas of Brussels. It also houses the Belgian Golf Academy, where you may work with professional trainers to improve your game.

Schedule Your Tee Times

Once you've decided on a hotel and a course, you should reserve your tee times as soon as possible. Some courses are quite popular and crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays, so you may need to book weeks or months in advance. You can find availability and costs, as well as make reservations, by visiting websites such as Golfbreaks or Martin's Hotels. You can also reach out to the courses through phone or email.

Have a Wonderful Journey.

Along the route, you can learn about the city's culture, history, and gastronomy. You might not want to miss the following attractions:

The Grand Place: This is Brussels' major square and one of the most beautiful in the world. It is bordered by beautiful structures including the Town Hall, the King's House, and the Guildhalls. It also serves as a location for a variety of events, including the Flower Carpet, the Christmas Market, and the Sound and Light Show.

The Atomium is a prominent building in Brussels that was constructed for the 1958 World's Fair. It is made up of nine spheres joined by tubes and resembles a magnified iron atom. The spheres, which house exhibitions, a café, and a panoramic view of the city, can be visited.

The Manneken Pis is a well-known statue depicting a little child urinating into a fountain. It is positioned near the Grand Place and is seen as a symbol of Brussels' sense of humor and independence. Depending on the occasion, the statue is frequently clothed in a variety of outfits.

Why Royal Waterloo Golf Club is a Must-Play Golf Course in Brussels

You shouldn't overlook Royal Waterloo Golf Club if you're looking for a golf course that blends history, natural beauty, and difficulty. The Belgian Open and the European Ladies' Team Championship have both been held at this club, one of the oldest and most prestigious in all of Belgium. Additionally, it is close to the renowned Waterloo battlefield, where Napoleon suffered his ultimate defeat in 1815.

La Marache, Le Lion, and Le Bois-Héros are the three courses available at Royal Waterloo Golf Club. The most well-known of these is La Marache, which Fred W. Hawtree created in 1960 and which his son Martin Hawtree later refurbished in 2007. La Marache is an 18-hole course with sweeping fairways, clever bunkers, and quick greens that winds through pleasant woods. The distance from the back tees is 6,557 meters, making it a par-72 course.

The La Marache course will put your knowledge, planning, and stamina to the test. The course begins with a straightforward par 4, but it quickly gets harder, especially on the back nine. The 18th, a lengthy par-5 with bunkers on the right and water on the left, is the course's most famous hole. It requires three accurate shots to get to the green. Napoleon himself inspired the name "L'Empereur" of the hole.

The La Marache course is not just difficult but also lovely. The course is surrounded by mature trees, flowers, and wildlife in a natural setting. Along with the historical markers honouring the Battle of Waterloo, you may take in the views of the countryside and the adjacent villages. Additionally, the club has a museum where artifacts and awards from the club's past are on display.

In Brussels, La Marache is a must-play golf course for a variety of reasons. This course offers equal parts of history, beauty, and difficulty. You'll feel triumphant after taking this course, or at the very least regal. It's a class you won't soon forget. What are you still holding out for? Schedule a round of golf at the Royal Waterloo Golf Club right away to experience this architectural marvel.

Do you love golfing but hate the hassle of traveling with your clubs? Do you worry about your clubs getting damaged or lost by the airlines? Do you want to enjoy your golf vacation without any stress or worry?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need the SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Plastic Interior Golf Bag Storage Traveling Case. This is the ultimate golf travel case that will keep your clubs safe and secure wherever you go.

The SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Plastic Interior Golf Bag Storage Traveling Case is not just any ordinary golf travel case. It is a case that is designed to meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and protection. Here are some of the features and benefits that make this case stand out from the rest:

• It is made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, the same material used by the U.S. military for cases and containers. This means it can withstand any impact, shock, or vibration that may occur during transit.

• It is contoured to fit stand bags and a pair of shoes, carry bags, and drivers up to 48 inches. This means it can accommodate most popular golf bags and clubs without any problem.

• It comes with TSA-accessible locking latches and wheels for easy transport. This means you can lock your case with TSA-approved locks for added security and convenience. You can also roll your case smoothly and effortlessly with the skate-style wheels.

• It has a Perfect-Match valance bending system that ensures a tight and secure fit. This means your case will not open or break during transit, even under extreme pressure or temperature.

• It is dirt-, dust-, and moisture-resistant, so your clubs will stay clean and dry. This means you don’t have to worry about rust, mold, or corrosion affecting your clubs.

• It comes with SKB’s unparalleled million-mile guarantee and $1,500 club coverage. This means you can trust SKB to stand behind their product and cover any damage or loss that may occur to your clubs.

The SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Plastic Interior Golf Bag Storage Traveling Case is more than just a golf travel case. It is a golf travel solution that will make your golf trips easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Don’t let your golf clubs suffer from poor handling, careless baggage handlers, or unpredictable weather. Protect them with the best golf travel case on the market today.

Order your SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Plastic Interior Golf Bag Storage Traveling Case now and get ready to hit the links with confidence and peace of mind.

The Facilities

The club has a pro shop where you can buy or rent equipment, clothing, or accessories. It also has a clubhouse where you can relax, socialize, or enjoy a meal or a drink. It also has a practice area where you can warm up or work on your skills. It also has a locker room where you can store your belongings or change your clothes. It also has a caddy service where you can hire a professional or an electric cart to assist you on the course.

The location

The club is located in Lasne, Wallonia, 30 km southeast of Brussels. It is close to the Waterloo battlefield and the Genval lake. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside and woodland.

How hard is it to get tee times

The club is open to visitors from Monday to Sunday, but you need to make a reservation in advance. You can contact the club’s secretariat by phone or email to check availability and prices. You can also use websites like Golfbreaks or Martin’s Hotels to find packages and deals. The club may have some restrictions on handicap or dress code, so make sure you check them before you book.

Getting to the resort from the airport

The nearest airport to the club is Brussels South Charleroi Airport, which is about 40 minutes away by car. You can use a taxi, a shuttle, a bus, or a train to get to the club from the airport. You can also rent a car at the airport if you prefer. The club has free parking for visitors.

Is über or Lyft an option

Uber is available in Belgium, but only in Brussels and Antwerp. You can use the Uber app to request a ride from your location to your destination, and pay with your credit card or cash. Uber offers different types of services, such as UberX, UberXL, UberBlack, and UberVan. Lyft is not available in Belgium.

Car rental availability

Car rental is widely available in Belgium, and you can find many car rental companies at the airports, train stations, or city centers. You can compare prices and services online, and book your car in advance or on the spot. You need to be 21 or older and have a valid European or International driver’s license to rent a car in Belgium. You also need to pay a deposit and have basic insurance coverage. Some of the best car rental companies in Belgium are Europcar¹, Avis², and Hertz².

Nightlife

Nightlife in Brussels is a bit relaxed and slightly quieter than other European cities, but there are still some good places to go for dancing, drinking, or listening to live music. You can find bars, clubs, pubs, and venues that suit your taste and mood. Here are some of the best things to do at night in Brussels:

• Visit Sainte Catherine & Antoine Dansaert: This is a trendy and alternative area in the city center, where you can find many bars, restaurants, shops, and galleries. You can enjoy the friendly vibe, the local beers, and the creative cuisine. Some of the best places to check out are Madame Moustache¹, a quirky bar and club with retro decor and eclectic music; Le Roi des Belges¹, a cozy pub with a rooftop terrace and live jazz; and Walvis¹, a modern brasserie with a large selection of beers and wines.

• Explore the Grand Place: This is the main square of Brussels, and one of the most beautiful in the world. It is surrounded by stunning buildings, such as the Town Hall, the King’s House, and the Guildhalls. At night, the square is illuminated by colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. You can admire the architecture, watch the sound and light show, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and legends of the place.

• Enjoy the Delirium Village: This is a complex of bars and pubs near the Grand Place, dedicated to beer lovers. The most famous one is Delirium Cafe², which holds the Guinness World Record for having more than 2,000 beers from around the world. You can also find other themed bars, such as Floris Bar², which specializes in absinthe; Taphouse², which offers craft beers on tap; and Tequila Bar², which serves Mexican drinks and snacks.

• Dance at Fuse: This is one of the oldest and most popular clubs in Brussels, known for its techno and house music. It has two floors, a large dance floor, a chill-out area, and a rooftop terrace. It hosts local and international DJs, as well as live acts and events. It is open from Friday to Sunday, from midnight to 7 am.

• Listen to jazz at The Music Village: This is one of the best jazz clubs in Brussels, located near the Grand Place. It has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with wooden tables, red curtains, and dim lights. It features live jazz performances every night, from local and international artists. You can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the bar or the restaurant.

• Watch a show at Royal Theatre Toone: This is a unique and charming theater that showcases puppet shows in Brussels dialect. It is located in an old building near the Grand Place, with a bar and a museum on the ground floor, and a theater on the first floor. You can watch classic or modern plays performed by wooden puppets, with humor and satire. The shows are usually in French or Dutch, but you can also find English subtitles on some nights.

• Taste chocolate at Laurent Gerbaud: This is one of the best chocolate shops in Brussels, where you can find delicious and original creations made with high-quality ingredients. You can join a chocolate workshop to learn how to make your own chocolates, or a chocolate tasting to sample different flavors and pairings. You can also buy some chocolates to take home or enjoy at the cafe.

• Have fun at Koezio: This is an indoor adventure park that offers fun and challenging activities for all ages. You can join a team mission that involves physical and mental tests, such as climbing, crawling, sliding, solving puzzles, and finding clues. You can also enjoy other attractions, such as laser games, virtual reality, and escape rooms. You can also relax at the bar or the restaurant after your adventure.

These are some of the best things to do at night in Brussels, but there are many more to discover. You can find more nightlife options on websites like Tripadvisor², Nightflow¹, or Brussels.info³. You can also ask for recommendations from your hotel staff, your fellow travelers, or your local guides. You can also explore the city by yourself, and see what surprises you. Whatever you choose, you will have a great time in Brussels!

Local cuisine choices

Belgium has a rich and diverse cuisine that reflects its history and culture. You can find dishes influenced by French, German, Dutch, and Spanish cuisines, as well as regional specialties. Some of the most popular dishes in Belgium are moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonnade flamande (beef stew with beer), waterzooi (chicken or fish soup), stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables), and waffles. Some of the best restaurants in Belgium are Comme Chez Soi³, Hof van Cleve³, Le Chou de Bruxelles³, and De Karmeliet³.

How to get around

Belgium has a well-developed public transportation system that includes trains, buses, trams, and metro. You can use these modes of transportation to travel within and between cities, as well as to neighboring countries. You can buy tickets online, at vending machines, or on board. You can also use taxis, Uber, or car rental to get around more conveniently.

What to do off the beaten path

Belgium has many hidden gems and attractions that are off the beaten path. You can explore the natural beauty of the Ardennes forests, caves, rivers, and waterfalls. You can visit the charming villages and towns that have preserved their medieval architecture and culture. You can discover the artistic and cultural heritage of Belgium at museums, galleries, festivals, and monuments. Some of the best things to do off the beaten path in Belgium are Dinant³, Durbuy³, Bouillon Castle³, Pairi Daiza³, and La Grand-Place de Mons

How far does your dollar go in Brussels

The cost of living in Brussels is relatively high compared to other European cities, but lower than some major global cities. According to Expatistan¹, the cost of living in Brussels is 21% cheaper than Paris, 42% cheaper than London, and 30% cheaper than New York. However, it is 166% more expensive than Mumbai, 82% more expensive than Lagos, and 18% more expensive than Sydney. As of April 2023, the average exchange rate is 1 USD = 0.86 EUR.

Cell phone tips in Belgium

Belgium has three main mobile network operators: Proximus, Orange, and Base. You can choose from different plans and packages that suit your needs and budget. You can also buy a prepaid SIM card or a pay-as-you-go plan if you don’t want to commit to a contract. You can find SIM cards and top-up vouchers at supermarkets, convenience stores, or mobile shops. You can also use free Wi-Fi hotspots that are available in many public places, such as cafes, hotels, or libraries.

Sports and entertainment in the area

Brussels has a lot to offer for sports and entertainment lovers. You can watch football matches at the King Baudouin Stadium, which is the home of the national team and the venue for major events. You can also watch basketball games at the Forest National Arena, which is the home of the Brussels Basketball team. You can also enjoy other sports, such as cycling, tennis, golf, or ice skating at various venues and clubs. For entertainment, you can visit the Atomium², a landmark building that features exhibitions, a restaurant, and a panoramic view of the city. You can also visit the Mini-Europe², a park that displays miniature models of famous landmarks from across Europe. You can also enjoy cultural events, such as concerts, festivals, or theater shows at venues like Ancienne Belgique³, Bozar³, or La Monnaie³.

Local events or festivals

Brussels hosts many local events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate its culture, history, and diversity. Some of the most popular ones are:

The Brussels Summer Festival: This is a music festival that takes place in August at various locations in the city center. It features local and international artists from different genres, such as rock, pop, jazz, or hip hop.

The Brussels Flower Carpet: This is a biennial event that takes place in August at the Grand Place. It involves covering the square with a giant carpet made of thousands of begonias in different colors and patterns.

The Brussels Comic Strip Festival: This is an annual event that takes place in September at various locations in the city. It celebrates the art and culture of comic strips, which are very popular in Belgium. It features exhibitions, workshops, conferences, parades, and shows.

The Brussels Christmas Market: This is an annual event that takes place from late November to early January at various locations in the city. It involves setting up stalls that sell food, drinks, crafts, and gifts. It also features a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, a light show, and a giant Christmas tree.

Weather and the best time of year to go

Brussels has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The average temperature ranges from 3°C (37°F) in January to 18°C (64°F) in July. The average rainfall is about 852 mm (34 inches) per year, with most of it falling between July and December. The best time of year to go to Brussels depends on your preferences and activities. Generally speaking, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are good times to visit because of the mild weather and the colorful scenery. Summer (June to August) is also a good time to visit because of the long days and the lively atmosphere. However, it can also be crowded and hot. Winter (December to February) is a good time to visit if you like Christmas markets and snow activities. However, it can also be cold and wet.

Are there any travel advisories

There are no major travel advisories for Belgium as of April 2023, but you should always check the latest information before you travel. You can use websites like Travel.State.Gov¹ or Gov.UK¹ to find the current travel advice and alerts for Belgium. You should also register your trip with your embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. You should also follow the local laws and customs, and respect the cultural differences. You should also be aware of the potential risks of terrorism, crime, or civil unrest, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Sample Itinerary

Here is a sample itinerary for 7 nights in Brussels with 2 nights travel, plus the average prices for everything. Please note that this is only a suggestion and you can modify it according to your preferences and budget. The prices are in Canadian dollars and may vary depending on the season and availability.

Day 1: Departure from Toronto

• Take a flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Brussels National Airport (BRU). The average price for a round-trip flight is $734 CAD¹.

Day 2: Arrival in Brussels and golf at Pierpont Golf Course

• Upon arrival, rent a car at the airport. The average price for a compact car for 7 days is $210 CAD².

• Drive to Hotel Golf De Pierpont, which is about 15 minutes away from the airport. The average price for a standard twin room is $133 CAD per night.

• Check in at the hotel and relax for a while.

• Play a round of golf at the Pierpont Golf Course, which is adjacent to the hotel. The green fee for weekdays is $80 CAD and for weekends is $90 CAD.

• Have dinner at the hotel’s restaurant or in the nearby town of Bons Villers.

Day 3: Golf at Golf du Château de la Tournette and visit Namur

• After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Golf du Château de la Tournette, which is about 25 minutes away from the hotel. The green fee for weekdays is $90 CAD and for weekends is $110 CAD.

• After your round of golf, drive to Namur, which is about 40 minutes away from the course. Namur is the capital of Wallonia and has a charming old town that overlooks the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers.

• Have lunch in Namur and visit some of the attractions, such as the Citadel of Namur, the Cathedral of Saint Aubain, and the Annevoie Gardens.

• Have dinner in Namur or in one of the nearby towns.

• Drive back to your hotel.

Day 4: Golf at Golf du Bercuit and visit Leuven

• After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Golf du Bercuit, which is about 30 minutes away from the hotel. The green fee for weekdays is $100 CAD and for weekends is $120 CAD.

• After your round of golf, drive to Leuven, which is about 25 minutes away from the course. Leuven is a university town that has a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. It has a rich cultural heritage that includes many historical buildings, monuments, museums, and art galleries.

• Have lunch in Leuven and visit some of the attractions, such as the Town Hall, the Groot Begijnhof, and the St. Peter’s Church.

• Have dinner in Leuven or in one of the surrounding villages.

• Drive back to your hotel.

Day 5: Golf at Royal Waterloo Golf Club and visit Waterloo

• After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Royal Waterloo Golf Club, which is about 20 minutes away from the hotel. The club has two 18-hole courses and one 9-hole course that offer different levels of difficulty and scenery. The green fee for weekdays is $110 CAD and for weekends is $130 CAD.

• After your round of golf, drive to Waterloo, which is about 10 minutes away from the club. Waterloo is famous for being the site of Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815. You can visit some of the historical landmarks, such as the Lion’s Mound, the Wellington Museum, and the Napoleon’s Last Headquarters.

• Have lunch in Waterloo and explore some of the shops and cafés in the town centre.

• Have dinner in Waterloo or in one of the nearby towns.

• Drive back to your hotel.

Day 6: Golf at Royal Bercuit Golf Club and visit Liège

• After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Royal Bercuit Golf Club, which is about 40 minutes away from the hotel. The club has an 18-hole course that was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., one of the most famous golf architects in the world. The course has narrow fairways, water hazards, bunkers, and sloping greens. The green fee for weekdays is $120 CAD and for weekends is $140 CAD.

• After your round of golf, drive to Liège, which is about 30 minutes away from the club. Liège is a lively city that has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. You can visit some of the attractions, such as the Prince-Bishops’ Palace, the Curtius Museum, and the Montagne de Bueren.

• Have lunch in Liège and enjoy some of the local specialties, such as boulets à la liégeoise, flamiche, and tarte al djote.

• Have dinner in Liège or in one of the surrounding towns.

• Drive back to your hotel.

Day 7: Golf at Golf Château de la Bawette and visit Brussels

• After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Golf Château de la Bawette, which is about 20 minutes away from the hotel. The club has two courses: an 18-hole course that is challenging and scenic, and a 9-hole course that is suitable for beginners. The green fee for weekdays is $80 CAD and for weekends is $100 CAD.

• After your round of golf, drive to Brussels, which is about 30 minutes away from the club. Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the European Union, and has many attractions to offer. You can visit some of the landmarks, such as the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, and the Atomium.

• Have lunch in Brussels and try some of the local specialties, such as moules-frites, waffles, chocolate, and beer.

• Have dinner in Brussels and enjoy some of the nightlife options in areas such as Saint-Géry, Sainte-Catherine, Flagey, Ixelles, Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, and Matongé.

• Drive back to your hotel.

Day 8: Departure from Brussels

• After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to the airport. Return your rental car and take your flight back to Toronto.

Summary

Here is a rough estimate of what the trip would cost per person:

I hope this helps you plan your golf trip. Have a great time! 😊