Gifting season: Ideas for last-minute presents from Belgium and beyond

From craft kits and celebratory cupcakes to artisan scented candles and locally-distilled booze, here’s our pick of some perfect Christmas presents.

Sweet spot

Not only does Esmero sell jars of fresh home-made dulche de leche, the Brussels atelier and store offers an array of sweet treats showcasing the delicious Argentinian caramel. Its dulce de leche is made with less sugar and uses the traditional method of boiling fresh milk gently and slowly for up to six hours. This is then used in the confection of alfajores - two crumbly cookies filled with dulce de leche, as well as chocolate-coated delights containing the oozing caramel. The woman behind the enterprise is Florencia Ahumada Segura, who sources all her ingredients locally. Avenue Georges Henri 307 (Woluwe-Saint-Lambert)

Shoes with a story

Kinamania is a newly-opened leathercraft atelier-boutique specialising in comfortable and colourful designer shoes. The brand launched by Canadian-Lebanese expat Kristina Zouein features ‘iconic storytelling’ in its beautiful range of crafted footwear – made in Beirut and Portugal – as well as workshops where participants make their own personalised leather bags and accessories. Metallic leather derbies, accompanied by glittery socks, are one gift idea. Take advantage of a Christmas promotion: Buy one pair of shoes and get a free kit (laces + cream polish + socks) worth €51. Gray Street 19 (Etterbeek).

Get arty

More than an art supply and stationery store, Belgian family business Schleiper is also a treasure trove for craft materials. Among the arty items that will please creative hands of all sizes are an enticing array of paints, pens, pastels, markers, paper, modelling materials, jewellery making and DIY kits. Stores in Saint-Gilles, Etterbeek and Anderlecht and around the country, plus online.

Festive spirit with a twist

Gin distilleries have sprung up around Belgium in recent years, all embracing the country’s juniper-flavoured liqueur tradition. Capturing the essence of the Ardenne forests is Arduenna Organic Gin, which combines the woody freshness of pine needles with the softer notes of elderflower and mirabelle plums for a well-rounded botanical mix (from €41). The premium artisan distillery also produces a refreshing Aperitivo organic bitter (€29.90). Available online and in stores around the country.

Prickly skin

For the holiday season, Belgian men’s skincare brand DHIST’L has launched five different gift boxes. Its products are infused with antioxidant thistle extracts for soothing and anti-age hydration. Take your pick from moisturisers – for dry or oily skin, eye serum, cleanser, shaving cream and after-shave serum. Add a pair of white sport socks bearing slogans such as You Rock or Carpe Diem for a personal touch.  Available online and from selected pharmacies.

Have bag will travel

Swedish outdoor gear specialist Fjällräven has launched a new line of luggage designed to fuel a spirit of adventure. The Färden collection of duffels fuse durability and functionality with a timeless design that are sure to be the perfect travel companion for any restless souls in your family.  Available in 50 and 80 litre sizes, in khaki green or coal black, the bags are fabricated from ultra-hardwearing, recycled polyamide with a laminate coating. They also boast zip pockets, handy straps and a separate footwear compartment. Available online, at A.S. Adventure and other specialist stores across the country.

Heaven on a plate

“You can’t buy happiness but you can buy cupcakes, which is about the same thing.” That’s the slogan of mouthwatering bakery Les Cupcakes d’Emilie. Emilie does not only offer gorgeously decorated multicoloured cup- and popcakes to be bought in store or ordered in advance, she also creates celebratory cakes. Themes include Hello Kitty and Harry Potter, and are perfect for birthdays, corporate events, even weddings. Avenue van Goidtsnoven 90 (Forest).

Let there be light

Valérie D’s stand out striking ceramic flower lights are hand-made on brass stems set in an oak base. These exquisite floral creations are so delicate they look like egg shells. The smaller items are LED light battery-charged; larger models can be plugged in. The poppy red, turquoise blue and lemon yellow lights in pairs, fours, sixes or more, can be yours for as little as €40. Order via the contact form on site or by telephone. Quiéry-la-Motte, France.

Be clean beautifully

No ordinary cleansing product, Alinessence Cosmetic soaps, shampoos and scrubs are a feast for the eyes before applying them to your body. Elegance incarnate, these 100% natural delights perfumed with essential oils are created by Brussels pharmacist Aline. Unique fragrances include cinnamon, patchouli and ginger. Each soap’s name suits its ‘all skin type’ purpose, from ‘Bye Bye Imperfections’ to the exfoliating ‘Divine Pearls’. Scented creams and candles are also available in simply beautiful packaging. Available in pharmacies, specialist shops or fresh from Aline’s atelier. Avenue van Beesen 25 (Jette).

Make it a Mimpi

Are you looking for locally-made, eye-catching, natural products to treat your family and friends – not only at Christmas? Mimpi offers an enchanting range of candles, vases, pots and plates from €6. “Hand-made with love” by Julie Solbreux since 2021 in Ath, the simply designed oh-so-beautiful products of this Belgian brand include ‘mushroom’ candles and ‘magic wood’ cups. Personalisation is possible too – just email or use the contact form.

Belgitude

Attitude, made in Belgium and a commitment to short-chain supply and sustainability, are the hallmarks of Belgikïe. Although a lot of the cute kids T-shirts and sweats are currently out of stock, there’s plenty of other original gifts, such as this ironic dig at Belgian modesty, in addition to pin badges, caps and tote bags. Whatever the product, they all exude simple but stylish designs. Available online.

Poop scooper

Put pooch to work by carrying his own poop bags in a practical and stylish leather holder (€35). Belgian designer Mieke Dierkx may specialise in hand bags, but she also turns her leathercraft skills to dog leads and accessories in this colourful Amigo collection. Available online and in flagship stores in Knokke, Antwerp, Westerlo and Mechelen.