DANGLING from the dizzy heights of the Dalton Tower it occurred to me that I had never imagined Belgium to be quite like this.

Famous for being the centre of the EU, for producing amazing chocolates and for its vast array of beers, Belgium also boasts hidden treasures such as the spectacular rollercoasters of Six Flags theme park, the beautiful water gardens of Annevoie and the picturesque views of Namur.

The compact geography of the country makes all major attractions easily accessible, and in only three days I managed to sample the hive of activity that is Brussels, the beauty of the Ardennes region and the historic town of Mons.

Our trip set sail with a comfortable and calm overnight crossing from Hull via P&O North Sea Ferries. At Zeebrugge we were met by our minibus driver, Willy, who drove us to the impressive Hotel Metropole in the centre of Brussels.

Having refuelled, we embarked on a guided tour of the Lower Town, the medieval part of the city, where we strolled through cobbled streets, peeked at the notorious Manneken Pis and marvelled at the Grand Place -- which certainly lives up to its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful squares.

The afternoon was spent in true European style at Mini Europe -- a family orientated attraction featuring scaled-down models of all the major European landmarks including our very own Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the White Cliffs of Dover.

Being a massive seafood fan, I longed to sample Brussels' famous mussels and chips. Fighting our way along the bustling Rue de Bouchers, lined on both sides with fresh fish, only added to the temptation. No visit to the capital could be complete without a taste of cafe-culture to end the night.

Day two, and on our way to Six Flags -- Belgium's biggest theme park, and definitely the highlight of my trip. In only two hours I managed to try out six of the biggest, fastest rides including the new Weerwolf rollercoaster and the 75 metre-high Dalton Tower.

With adrenalin still pumping through our veins we arrived at the Novotel Namur, checked in and headed to the heart of Namur. After lunch, we strolled through the streets, getting caught up in the Day of Traditional Folklore parade, an annual event to celebrate the city's history and traditions.

In complete contrast to the morning's activities, a peaceful afternoon was spent wandering around Les Jardins d'Annevoie -- charming water gardens designed and created between 1758-1776 by Charles-Alexis de Montpellier.

A quieter evening followed. A slap-up meal at La Petite Fugue, considered one of the best restaurants in Namur. Food is one thing the Belgians certainly don't do by halves -- I ate like a king at every opportunity!

Day three, our final day in Belgium, and typically the finest weather we had seen all weekend. We spent the morning touring the historic city of Mons, stopping at some of the key positions defended by British troops during the First World War.

We visited the Saint-Symphorien Cemetery, a beautiful rural resting place for both British and German soldiers. After eating in Mons centre, we each made a wish while stroking the head of the cast iron monkey perched on the front of the Hotel de Ville.

The final stop was a tour round the newly opened industry museum PASS -- Parc d'Aventures Scientifiques, before travelling back to Zeebrugge to board the ferry home.

FACTFILE

The trip was organised by the Belgian Tourist Office -- Tel: 020 7531 0392. E-mail: info@belgiumtheplaceto.be Website: www.belgiumtheplaceto.be

I travelled to Belgium by ferry, from Hull to Zeebrugge with P&O North Sea Ferries Ltd -- Tel: 01482 795141.

In Brussels I stayed at the Hotel Metropole.

In Namur, I was at the Novotel Namur

By Teri Jones