Not many people realize that at this place they are swimming in the oldest covered swimming pool in Flanders. In Ghent all public baths closed down in the 16th century, but with the industrialization of the 19th century the need for more hygienic circumstances became stronger.
The Van Eyck swimming pool was built in 1886 and in the early days it was only used in summer as a swimming pool. Today it meets all modern and hygienic needs as it has been recently renovated.
Most likely you'll have a shower in your hotel or B&B, but if you decided to sleep under one of the Ghent bridges and still want to take a hot shower in the morning, this is your place to be. The cellar is filled with private baths and showers, still used today for people who do not have a bathroom at home.
As this is the only public swimming pool in the city center, this is the place where I swim my weekly kilometer. The only problem is that everyone is excited about this spot that it easily gets overcrowded. But who cares, this is your chance to swim in a really nice swimming pool!
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Le Bal Infernal" in Ghent is a used book cafe where you go inside, admire the beautiful interior and switch the books with one you have already!
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"Damberd" is the best example of that they call a 'Belgisch bruin café' in Ghent and one of its oldest bards. Very popular with the jazz crowd!
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"Yoga-on-call" is a contemporary yoga studio in the heart of Ghent. All the teachers are enthusiastic and helpful and speak English. I'm always energized.
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"Simon Says" in Ghent is more than a coffee bar. They offer breakfast, lunch and great cakes. I don't like coffee but it's said that theirs is the best.
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"Rococo" in Ghent's very cozy old neighborhood Patershol is also a cozy and romantic bar. It's known among locals as 'Betty'. Have some 'liquer d'amour'...
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"Portus Ganda" is one of the four marinas of Ghent. Its history goes back to the very basis of the city and is my favourite spot - I feel connected here...
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"BOON" is the most beautiful lunch bar in Ghent and already my all-time favorite lunch place! It is mostly vegetarian. Try the rhubarb soda, trust me.
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"The Virgin", a little fresco was revealed on November 18, 2014 in Ghent. I first followed the reaction of Pierre Pierlala, who called it an 'enlarged stamp'
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"De Krook" is Ghent's new public library, located next to the river. It has a nice bar and its great views over the three towers will leave you speechless.
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"St Peter's Abbey" in Ghent is one of the city's two beer-producing abbeys. I find it the perfect place to chill out and try many kinds of Belgian beer.
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"O'YO" Ghent is a yogurt shop perfect for a healthy alternative to cake or ice cream! A cool place that offers everything yogurt; sweet, savory or both!
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112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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