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The local time is: 11:08 AM
The temperature is: 15 C,
Fair
Just 2 minutes’ walk from the Ramada Ostend hotel, and dominating the promenade, is the Kursaal Oostende. The world famous Casio and concert hall was refurbished in 2004 and is now one of Belgium’s largest concert and convention centre.
The Kursaal Oostende Concert Hall regularly hosts diverse range of world class performances from opera to ballet to rock to theatre.
The Casino-Kursaal Oostende is renowned for the splendid decoration, views as well as its games and atmosphere which entices visitors from near and far.
During both World Wars many coastal defences were built along the Belgian coast and some of the best preserved are here in Ostend. Approximately 60 German structures are preserved in the Atlantic Wall Open-Air Museum including bunkers, artillery batteries, observation posts and bombproof shelters, all connected by 2km of trenches. The museum includes a number of bunkers which have been restored and furnished to give you an understanding what life was like for the soldiers.
There are separate tours of the open-air museum for the First and Second World Wars, each lasts approximately 90 minutes. Official guided tours are available during summer months and audio guides are available throughout the year.
The beautiful Leopold Park is on the doorstep of the Ramada Hotel. Originally laid out in 1860 along the old city walls it is one of Ostend’s most visited sights. During summer months concerts are held on the bandstand but it is most famous for the amazing floral clock with hands 3 and 4 metres long, created using 20.000 plants. Leopold Park is also home to a statue officially titled “The Sea” but which everyone remembers as “Dikke Mathilde” (fat Matilda) - she is so famous there is even a local Dikke Mathille beer brewed in her honour.
The neo-gothic Chrurch of St Petrus and Paulis (De Sint-Petrus-en-Pauluskerk) sits in the heart of Ostend. The church was built in 1907 on the site of St. Pieterskerk (St Peters Church) which burnt down at the end of the previous century. The heavy square foot Peperbusse tower behind the present church is all that remains of the original St Peters.
On a sunny day the stained glass windows of St Petrus and Paulus are a magnificent sight. The church also includes a chapel containing the tomb of first Belgian Queen Marie Louise who died here in Ostend.
Intended as a defence against a possible English invasion the fort was completed only after the fall of Napoleon in 1814. During the two world wars the fort was used by the German military however it fell into disrepair after liberation. The site has since been restored and today you can uncover its captivating past in the museum and enjoy regular cultural activities. In the evenings the bistro serves gourmet dinners in an exclusive setting with enviable views. To get to Fort Napoleon simply hop on the tram.
Each day Ostend fishermen sell their fresh catch in the picturesque market. Situated by the harbour, the Fish Market (known locally as the Vistrap), is about 10 minutes walk from the hotel.
The 9-hole championship course along Ostend sea front is a must for keen golfers. The scenic course also features 2 large practice greens and driving range. Wellington Golf Ostend is open to non-members and lessons are available.
