A short hop from the Channel, Cassel has a romantic atmosphere and laid-back charm that make it perfect for couples looking to explore historic Flanders and experience some French art de vivre.

Less than an hour from Calais, Cassel is a unique place to immerse yourself in another culture, learn about Flemish architecture and enjoy views over the rest of French Flanders. Must-sees are the Grand’Place with its gabled houses with brightly painted wooden shutters, the Kasteel Meulen or Moulin de Cassel, one of around 20 windmills that dotted the area in the Middle Ages, several private châteaux, and the Musée Départemental de Flandre, with displays on local history plus English audio-guides. For the best countryside views, head for Kasteel Meulen, Estaminet T’Kasteel’hof or the Châtellerie de Shoebecque’s restaurant. A passionate advocate of local life, Manuel de Quillacq is proprietor of both T’Kasteel Hof (a typical Flemish estaminet or bistro, serving comfort food in a cosy setting) and the remarkable Jardin du Mont des Récollets, inspired by historic Flemish gardens and including topiary and an area inspired by Brueghel’s Hunters in the Snow.

Have you ever tried a Carbonade?

Made by slow-cooking meat in brown ale with a bit of sugar, smoked bacon, herbs and spices this rich, delicious casserole is the best way to immerse yourself in Flemish flavours. The best part? It’s served with ginger bread toast, and the spices combined with the beef stew is a match made in heaven.

A Super-size Event Visitors in April 2018

get a rare opportunity to watch the Ronde Européenne de Géants Portés in Steenvoorde just east of Cassel. This UNESCO-listed parade held every six years or so features giant carnival figures from all over Europe, the most famous among them Reuze Papa.

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