The most beautiful places in the Ardennes
A question we often get, What are the most beautiful spots in the Ardennes? We have gathered them together for you. Known for its pristine nature and picturesque villages, the Belgian Ardennes offers a wealth of hidden gems. With dense forests, meandering rivers and historic castles, it is the perfect destination for both peace seekers and adventurers.
Sightseeing in the Ardennes
The Belgian Ardennes are a short distance from the Netherlands, but offer a completely different environment: vast forests, rolling hills and meandering rivers. In addition, you will find picturesque towns, impressive castles, historic monasteries and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Whether you opt for an active vacation or just a relaxing stay, the Ardennes have something for every vacationer. It is an ideal destination for both a short weekend getaway and a longer trip. Also for RV lovers there are plenty of beautiful sights to discover. In this article we share the most beautiful spots and sights in the Belgian Ardennes.
Dinant
Dinant is one of the most iconic cities in the Ardennes, located on the banks of the Meuse River. The city is characterized by the impressive Dinant Citadel, which towers high above the landscape and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. A visit to Dinant is not complete without a boat ride on the Meuse River or a stop at the famous Collegiate Church of Our Lady, with its distinctive onion-shaped tower.
Dinant is also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. Throughout the city you will come across colorful saxophones in tribute to his musical legacy. Feeling hungry? Then be sure to try the local specialty Couque de Dinant: a rock-hard honey cake that is perhaps even tougher than the rocks of the citadel.
Tip: Are you looking for a campsite in the Ardennes? Our campsite in Dinant is the ideal campsite to spend the night in the Ardennes. Enjoy nature, discover the most beautiful sights and spend an unforgettable stay in the heart of the Ardennes.
Camping Domaine du Bocq
Camping Domaine du Bocq is the ideal base near dinant. Get out of the daily grind and go on an adventure in the heart of the Ardennes. Welcome to our adventurous, outdoor camping Domaine du Bocq! At Domaine du Bocq you will find different types of pitches, camping fields, glamping tents and gîtes. Enjoy peace and quiet in a private spot next to the babbling river du Bocq or pitch your tent in one of the fields and enjoy the beautiful view.
- Enjoying the beautiful nature
- Perfect for the hiking and biking enthusiast
- Get to know the area in a different way
Durbuy
Durbuy is often called the smallest town in the world, and while it may be small in size, it is big on charm. The winding streets with centuries-old houses, cozy squares and artisan stores make this town one of the most atmospheric destinations in the Ardennes.
In addition to culture and gastronomy, Durbuy also offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can kayak on the Ourthe River, rock climb or visit the Labyrinth of Barvaux, a giant maze that has a different theme each year. And if you need a good excuse to have a beer: the Durbuy Brewery serves delicious local beers that you should definitely taste.
La Roche-en-Ardenne
La Roche-en-Ardenne is a perfect combination of nature and history. Located along the river Ourthe, this town offers numerous hiking trails with beautiful views. The highlight is undoubtedly the medieval Castle of La Roche, which overlooks the town and where regular ghost stories about the 'White Lady' are told.
In addition to culture, you can also enjoy being active in La Roche. Think kayaking, mountain biking or an adventurous hike in the area. And for the gourmets: La Roche is famous for its Ardennes ham, which you can taste in almost any restaurant.
Ninglinspo
The Ninglinspo is a special location in the Ardennes. The path along this unique river offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, with fairy-tale waterfalls and clear blue water making its way between the rocks. It is a fantastic location for hikers and photographers alike, who will have the chance to capture the enchanting landscapes of the Ardennes here. Don't forget your camera, because the impressive panoramas are simply unforgettable!
During your walk along the Ninglinspo you will find that you pass several idyllic spots where you can take a break, enjoy a picnic or just unwind. The combination of restful nature and picturesque views makes this one of the most impressive natural areas in the Ardennes not to be missed.
Caves of Han
When in the Ardennes, the caves of Han really is a must-see. This impressive underground world will amaze you with its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over the years. It is not only a visual spectacle, but also a chance to learn more about the geology and history of this unique place. The tours are informative and take you to the most breathtaking rooms, some of which are so large they can host concerts. This makes it one of the most impressive sites in the Ardennes where you can share an unforgettable experience with friends or family.
Beyond the caves themselves, the area around Han-sur-Lesse is also a great destination. You can enjoy hiking through the picturesque landscape, which is full of flora and fauna. For families, there are fun activities, such as a wildlife park.
Accommodations to discover the Ardennes
Le Hérou
Le Hérou is a spectacular natural area in the Ardennes, best known for its impressive rock formation along the Ourthe River. This rugged landscape offers one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region, where you have a panoramic view of the green valleys and winding river. The area is perfect for adventurous hikers, with challenging trails that take you past steep cliffs and hidden paths.
For nature lovers and photographers, Le Hérou is a real gem, especially at sunrise or sunset when the landscape is enveloped in warm colors. This location is a perfect destination for those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the peace and quiet of nature.
Malmedy
Malmedy is truly a gem in the Ardennes, perfect for a relaxing bike ride. The picturesque surroundings, with its green hills and charming streets, invite you to explore. While cycling through this atmospheric town and its surrounding nature, you will come across all kinds of nice locations where you can stop for a refreshing drink or a tasty snack. The local cafes offer not only delicious Belgian beers, but also some of the best regional specialties you won't want to miss.
Tip: Don't forget your camera, as the photogenic views and colorful nature will surely inspire you to capture these special moments. It is the ideal way to experience the charm of the Ardennes and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
Rochefort
Rochefort is a charming town best known for the world-famous Trappist beer Rochefort, brewed by the monks of the monastery of Saint-Rémy. Visitors can explore the monastery's surroundings and learn more about the craft brewing process.
Besides the beer, Rochefort is also a town full of history. Rochefort Castle offers stunning views of the region, and the nearby Lorette-Rochefort Caves introduce you to the underground splendor of the Ardennes.
For adventurers and hikers, there are numerous trails winding through Rochefort's forests and hills, making this town a perfect blend of culture, nature and gastronomy.
Tip: What do you eat with Trappist beer Rochefort? The rich, malty flavor of Rochefort Trappist pairs perfectly with Ardennes cheeses, dry sausage and dark chocolate. A stew of game or beef also goes well with this beer. Our favorite? A board of bread, cheese and sausage, simple but irresistible!
Broth
The castle of Bouillon is a real pearl in the Ardennes, where history and adventure go hand in hand. As you walk through the impressive gates of this medieval castle, you imagine yourself back in time. The views from the walls are breathtaking and offer a magnificent panorama of the surrounding forests and rivers. Whether you come with friends or family, the impressive architecture and the stories of the knights and princesses ensure that you will truly make memories here that will last a lifetime.
After a day of exploring, you can discover the charm of the Ardennes even more at the castle. Take the time to enjoy the local cuisine in one of the nearby restaurants, where you can sample delicious Ardennes specialties. Or take a walk in the beautiful nature surrounding the castle, where you can not only relax, but also discover some of the best sights in the Ardennes. Broth itself is one of those places in the Ardennes that you just have to experience, full of conviviality and a rich history.
Spa
Spa is known worldwide for its mineral water, but this city in the Ardennes has much more to offer than just a refreshing drink. Besides the thermal baths, where you can relax in the famous spa, Spa is also the place for Formula 1 enthusiasts. The nearby Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most iconic racing circuits in the world and attracts thousands of fans each year for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Whether you want to relax in a warm thermal bath or just feel the adrenaline of F1, Spa has something for everyone. And for the real diehards: you can even take a ride around the circuit as a passenger in a race car.
Camping in the Ardennes
Why choose Domaine du Bocq as a base?
Domaine du Bocq is the ideal base for hiking enthusiasts who want to explore the Ardennes. Our nature camping is located in the heart of the Ardennes and offers direct access to several hiking trails.
In addition, a variety of accommodations are available, including safari tents and cottages, which are equipped with all comforts. So after a day of adventure, you can relax in comfortable surroundings in the middle of nature. Don't forget to end your day with a campfire and enjoy the stars above the campsite in the Ardennes.
Frequently asked questions about the most beautiful places in the Ardennes
What makes the waterfalls of Coo so special?
At 15 meters high, the Coo Waterfalls are the largest waterfalls in Belgium. They were created by human intervention in the 18th century to prevent flooding. Besides admiring the waterfalls, you can do various activities in the area, such as kayaking and beautiful hiking.
Why is Durbuy so well known?
Known as the smallest town in the world, Durbuy offers a charming medieval center with cobbled streets, cozy squares and numerous restaurants and boutiques.
What are the unique features of Orval Abbey?
Orval Abbey is a Cistercian monastery known for its Trappist beer and cheese. Visitors can explore the ruins of the old monasteries, visit the museum and enjoy the serene gardens.
What outdoor activities are there in the Belgian Ardennes?
The Ardennes are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike, mountain bike, climb, kayak and even zipline. Various adventure activities are offered at Domaine du Bocq, such as rock climbing and downhill stepping through the hilly surroundings.
Where is the best place to hike in the Ardennes?
There are numerous beautiful hiking trails in the Ardennes. Highly recommended is the walk along the Ninglinspo, Belgium's only mountain river, which takes you past waterfalls and natural pools.
What are the options for a weekend getaway in the Ardennes?
The Ardennes offer numerous possibilities for a weekend getaway, from adventurous activities to relaxing in nature. At our campsite you can spend the night in a tent, glamping accommodation or gîte.
What are the cultural highlights of the Belgian Ardennes?
The Ardennes are home to many cultural treasures, such as the castle of Bouillon, the citadel of Dinant and the abbey of Stavelot. These historic sites offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region and are definitely worth a visit.
Which abbeys can you visit in the Ardennes?
Besides Orval Abbey, there are several monasteries to visit in the Ardennes, such as Maredsous Abbey and Rochefort Abbey. These are known for their architecture, serene surroundings and often for their brewing traditions.
Why must you see the citadel of Dinant?
Dinant's citadel towers high above the city and offers a magnificent view of the Meuse Valley. The fortress is a museum showcasing the rich history of the region.