Daytrip - Time for only one, Orval or Westvleteren

Discussion in 'Belgium' started by HeadwatersFinest, Jun 30, 2012.

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  1. HeadwatersFinest

    HeadwatersFinest Initiate (0) Nov 5, 2009 Alaska

    So, I'm in Brussels for one more day (and have a car) and want to either make the trek north to Westvletern or south to Orval. I'm a little torn as to which I should go see and wanted some opinions. Torn because I know the overall experience at Orval, seeing the Cistercian ruins and touring the grounds would be fantastic. At Westvleteren, we would only be allowed at the In de Vrede, but then again, I don't know when I'll ever have the chance to try Westvleteren again.

    Anyone been to either or both and have an opinion to offer? If it were just me, I would head north for the chance at Westvletern, but my father is with too, and he may appreciate the historical aspects of Orval more.

    Thanks:slight_smile:
     
    #1 HeadwatersFinest, Jun 30, 2012
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  2. Brabander

    Brabander Initiate (0) Oct 10, 2009 Netherlands

    I would go for Westvleteren all the way! Why? Because there are some big brewers in the area like the Struise, Bernardus, Alvinne en de Dolle brouwers! It is not correct that you can not go inside the abbey of Westvleteren. That is possible but only to visit the church. (If you want to know how just shoot me a BM) The brewery is only after they have invited you and that is what they almost never do.....

    Thijs
     
    #2 Brabander, Jun 30, 2012
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  3. JosephThompson

    JosephThompson Zealot (584) Nov 29, 2011 New Jersey

    I've visited both and this is really one of those "you can't go wrong with your choice" type of questions.

    The history and beauty of Orval is something to see. Packed away in the woods that deep south it truly is enchanting. One caveat to my experience is I went in February so I saw a total of four other people my entire day which no doubt contributes to my fond memories. Considering its July, I'd imagine it would be a much different experience with the crowds.

    Of course, you're going to see a packed crowd at In Da Vrede at St. Sixtus as well but considering the availability of the Westvleteren beers it very well may be the better choice to say you've experienced the fine tastes just steps from the Abbey.
     
    #3 JosephThompson, Jun 30, 2012
  4. Brabander

    Brabander Initiate (0) Oct 10, 2009 Netherlands

    Funny thing is i have never been to Orval. This year in september i will give it another try though! I am more a Westvleteren guy because of the easy access and the fact i do not like Orval to be honest.....

    Thijs
     
    #4 Brabander, Jun 30, 2012
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  5. Vanlingleipa

    Vanlingleipa Maven (1,468) May 19, 2011 California
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    Only Thijs can make a statement like this and survive a lie detector test! :grinning:
     
    #5 Vanlingleipa, Jun 30, 2012
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  6. JosephThompson

    JosephThompson Zealot (584) Nov 29, 2011 New Jersey

    No one can blame your tastes!! :wink:

    The Westvleteren beers are something else and I'm happy I never opened my cellar bottles until I tasted it at In Da Vrede. May be corny, but it did mean a little more to have it there first.
     
    #6 JosephThompson, Jul 2, 2012
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