Embarking on the Unexpected in La Calamine
I boarded the train to La Calamine, one of Belgium’s hidden gems, early in the morning with a heart high on anticipation. I’d heard lots about this quaint town along the German-Belgian highway and its unique attraction: Skulpturenpfad Kelmis. Now, if you’re a seasoned follower of my journeys, you’re well aware of my inclination towards things that aren’t altogether ‘common’. From spending a lovely afternoon sketching quaint houses in Kyoto to hiking up the rocky terrains of Reykjavik, I always find myself drawn to experiences that are off the beaten path.
Hitting the Pause Button
As I stepped off the train, nestled in unfamiliar surroundings, I could sense an impending adventure. However, the universe had plotted a different trajectory for my well-planned day. As I sipped my coffee from a quirky mug, I’d picked up at the local café, a strike or protest changed all my plans.
Always the optimist, I saw this as an impromptu chance to explore the town unplanned, something which has always thrilled me, albeit causing a twinge of anxiety. After all, who could forget my infamous lost-in-Ireland escapade?
A Sculpted Oasis Amidst the Chaos
Stumbling upon the Skulpturenpfad Kelmis – krokodil von Urban Stark, felt like discovering a treasure trove amidst the chaos. This underestimated gem of a pathway boasted of ‘misfit’ sculptures scattered haphazardly, masterpieces quietly becoming one with nature. My DSLR was all aflutter and my travel sketchbook quickly filled with scribbles and watercolour impressions of these striking works of art. The stark contrast of the peaceful oasis to the protest’s hubbub left a profound imprint on me.
An essential tip to my fellow travellers: when visiting Skulpturenpfad Kelmis, bring a sketchbook or a camera. The cornucopia of inspiration will make you want to capture the charm in any way possible.
A Touch of Culinary Comfort
Finding myself hungry after this cultural immersion, I found respite in a cosy eatery named Kelmis. Wall art and warm smiles greeted me as I tucked into a Ratatouille-style dish that would have even impressed Remy, the Michelin-starred rat chef. It was comfort food at its finest, reminding me of the hearty Irish stew my grandma used to make, with the added flair of Belgian culinary magic.
Resilience Paints the Best Pictures
This unexpected day in La Calamine painted a candid picture of life’s surprises. My plan of a quiet, structured exploration of a little Belgian town turned into an adventure where I found myself celebrating resilience in art, food, and the spirit of the local people. The sounds of protest converge with the striking silence of crocodile sculptures to create a peculiar symphony of life.
Although I tend to avoid overly crowded situations, the solidarity and impassioned voices of the people of La Calamine showed me there was beauty even in unrest, and tranquillity in the unexpected.
Final Memento From La Calamine
While you may assume I added another quirky coffee mug to my collection – I did not. Instead, what I brought back from La Calamine was significantly more profound. It was a lesson in adaptability, the confirmation that my fear of being ‘lost’ isn’t so bad and a reaffirmation of my belief in sustainable and respectful travel as I saw locals ensure that their peaceful protest left no trace behind.
My trip to La Calamine was a perfect blend of art, food, culture, and unexpected adventure. To everyone planning a trip to Belgium, remember: sometimes, the most memorable journeys aren’t the ones you plan meticulously but the ones that unfold in their own peculiar, unpredictable ways. La Calamine, with all its quirk and character, will always have a special place in my travelogue, if not for what I came seeking, then certainly for what I found.