Wrestling Up Camp in Leuven

Autor: Matthias

Duration: 5 days, 5 nights

Location: Leuven, Belgium

Costs: €340 for flight, €265 for accommodation, €490 for the camp

I recently spent five exciting days and nights in Leuven, Belgium. This city is known for its beautiful old buildings and a famous university that was started in 1425. I was there for a Wrestling Up seminar taught by Nicky Ryan and Damien Anderson.

Getting here

I flew in early Sunday morning and left on Friday around lunchtime. I wanted to take the train because it connects well from Brussels to other big cities in Europe, but I didn’t have enough time. Flying was faster this time.

BJJ

Food and drinks

The food in Belgium is great. I really liked the fries and burgers here. They made for tasty meals after a long day of training.

Here some more highlights you might enjoy in Leuven:

Beer: Leuven is home to the famous Stella Artois brewery. You can visit the brewery and learn about the beer-making process, or you can simply enjoy a glass of Stella Artois in one of the many bars and pubs scattered around the city. Additionally, Leuven boasts numerous traditional Belgian pubs where you can sample a wide variety of Belgian beers, including local specialties like Leuvense Tripel.

Chocolate: Belgium is synonymous with chocolate, and Leuven is no exception. You’ll find plenty of chocolate shops offering a tempting array of pralines, truffles, and other sweet treats. Take a chocolate tasting tour to sample some of the best offerings in the city.

Waffles: Belgian waffles are a must-try when visiting Leuven. Whether you prefer them topped with whipped cream, fruit, chocolate sauce, or simply dusted with powdered sugar, you’ll find them at various cafes and street vendors throughout the city.

Things to do

The Old Town and University: Leuven’s old town and the university add a special feel to the city. It feels both old and full of new energy at the same time.

Explore the Grote Markt: This central square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great spot to soak in the atmosphere of the city and perhaps enjoy some Belgian cuisine.

Stella Artois Brewery Tour: Leuven is home to the famous Stella Artois brewery. Take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and enjoy some tastings.

M-Museum Leuven: This contemporary art museum showcases both Belgian and international artists. It’s a great place to explore modern art and get a sense of the local cultural scene.

The Botanical Garden: Leuven’s Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll among the diverse collection of plants and enjoy the tranquility.

Leuven City Hall: The City Hall is another architectural gem in Leuven. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire the intricate Gothic design.

Leuven Beguinage: Explore the Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its history as a place for religious women to live and work together.

Looking Back

I really enjoyed the camp and learned a lot. The mix of tough training, good food, and exploring a historic city made my trip memorable. I would definitely go back to another Focus Camp.