We explore the railways of eastern Belgium from Leuven (Louvain) and Zeebrugge across to the German border just west of Aachen. Really this is the story of two routes: the main freight to Germany via Hasselt, Visé and Montzen and the current main international passenger line via Liège. On the way we watch the SNCB / NMBS at work and also follow the fortunes of B-Cargo in and around Genk. In Genk we drop in on a Scandivanian icon! IKEA. IKEA are committed rail freight users with regional distribution centres throughout continental Europe. We are privileged to tour their impressive facility, watch them unload rail vans from Sweden and Poland, and to discuss their plans for the future. Also in Genk is motor giant Ford with an impressive canal side port - see them both at work. Onward from Genk we follow the line across the mighty Maas and watch the trains cross the river on the spectacular viaduct. We even have time for a quick detour and visit the City of Maastricht- a Dutch city integrated into the SNCB NMBS network. Liège is Belgium's third city and a very busy rail centre. Thalys, EuroCity, and IC trains in their coats of many colours enliven the city, and we have a close look at the route to Germany, for in a few years it will change forever!

Narrated   RT 67 mins