The temptation of chocolate draws Chocoholics and chocolate connoisseurs to Brugge, Belgium in droves. Decadent, rich chocolate shops are beyond prevalent in this well-preserved Gothic city. At every turn of every cobblestone corner, you will discover, yet another chocolate shop. Belgium is second to none in the chocolate department. If you think Swiss chocolate is the best, than you haven't tried Belgian chocolate. Here are just a few suggestions to indulge your chocolate cravings.
Dumon is a well-known family owned shop. Madam Dumon along with her two sons, Stefaan and Christophe, make superb handmade chocolates daily. They will go into great detail describing their fresh, creamy chocolates, which burst with flavor. It's not uncommon to find a small crowd gathered around the chocolate display case. To indulge in one-of -a-kind concoctions, head over to the Chocolate Line near Market Square. Eighty unique varieties, such as a Buddha-shaped ginger chocolate and a white elephant saffron curry will tempt your taste buds. If you're looking for marzipan along with an assortment of liquor filled chocolates, Verheecke offers a grand selection. Sample individual chocolates and then purchase a box of your favorites to bring home. For delicious tea-flavored pralines, go to the Chocolate Corner. And for the true chocolate connoisseur, you will appreciate De-Proeverie Tea Room located in the Sukerbuyc shop. Enjoy hot chocolate along with a sampling of chocolates in front of a toasty fireplace. For those of you who can't make it to Belgium, order handmade chocolates directly from Sukerbuyc's choc-online website.
Finally, a trip to the Choco-Story (chocolate museum) will complete your trip to Brugge with a chocolate demonstration and chocolate tasting.

From April 6 to 10 2007, Brugge will be celebrating their second chocolate festival.

During my three days in Brugge, I stayed at the small and elegant Hotel Heritage.