Karting Knokke

In Knokke-Heist, on the Belgian coast, karting is one of the activities at The Smiles, a large covered leisure centre of more than ten thousand square metres. You drive under cover, on a track built into a complex that banks on variety rather than racing alone. The indoor format makes it a welcome option when wind and rain sweep the coast, common on this stretch of the North Sea.

Karting is just one activity among many here: the centre also brings together bowling, laser tag, karaoke, billiards, an arcade, a restaurant and play areas for children. Enough to fill a whole afternoon with family or in a group, especially on days when the beach is off the cards. Birthday and group packages are booked in advance.

Knokke-Heist is one of the most upmarket seaside resorts in Belgium, known for its long promenade, its art galleries and its walk along the sea. To the east of the town, the Zwin nature reserve protects an area of polders and mudflats prized by migrating birds. The Smiles adds a covered, complete leisure offer, handy for holidaymakers and locals alike when the coastal weather turns. Booking is advised for groups, and the venue rounds off a day in Knokke nicely when the North Sea weather pushes you to look for something dry to do.