Top 15 Activities in the Ardennes Region of Belgium

The Ardennes refers to a distinctive region in southern Belgium that extends into Luxembourg, France, and Germany. This area contrasts sharply with the bustling, industrialized north. Visitors can engage in a wide array of activities, such as exploring exceptional museums, tasting local beers, and visiting what is often claimed to be the world’s smallest city. Given the picturesque rolling hills and verdant landscapes, it is unsurprising that the Ardennes has become a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the region boasts numerous mines and grottos, providing spectacular options for day trips.

While some cities in the Ardennes may not be as visually captivating as the surrounding countryside, they offer numerous appealing attractions and intriguing history that will enrich your visit. The war museums in Bastogne are particularly compelling, featuring well-curated exhibitions, alongside various churches and artistic highlights that one might expect to find in the area.

Culinary enthusiasts will find delight in the Ardennes, particularly with its world-renowned pâté native to the region. Other popular local delicacies revolve around pork, including ham and cured meats. A multitude of excellent restaurants exists both within and outside the cities, urging visitors to research their options to manage budgets effectively while ensuring a fulfilling experience. Beer undoubtedly reigns as the regional beverage, supported by numerous historical breweries and abbeys that will intrigue anyone interested in the beverage’s rich history.

Let us delve into the top attractions in the Ardennes:

1. Explore the Grand Curtius Museum

The Grand Curtius building in Liège certainly lives up to its name and is readily identifiable by its striking red brick exterior.

Inside, the well-renovated building hosts a museum that chronicles the history of art from its origins to contemporary forms.

Initially, visitors may find the museum quite overwhelming, necessitating a couple of hours to absorb all the information presented.

For those seeking a deeper experience, audio guides and temporary exhibitions are also available.

2. Drink at the Abbey Notre Dame

While Belgium boasts many excellent beer abbeys, none is quite as architecturally impressive as the Abbey Notre Dame in Orval.

Following a substantial reconstruction in the 18th century, the abbey was once again reduced to ruins by French forces, resulting in the remnants that visitors can explore today.

Additionally, visitors can explore a pharmacy, museum, and herb garden, which are all reflective of 18th-century monastic life.

3. View Art in Liege

This serves as a prime example of the adage, “not to judge a book by its cover.”

Externally, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Liège resembles a monotonous concrete block; an aesthetic that does not accurately represent what is contained within.

The interior gallery is thoughtfully designed and houses a vast collection of masterpieces, ranging from medieval works to more recent surrealist and industrial art.

4. Hike in Rochehaut

Rochehaut showcases breathtaking landscapes featuring gentle rolling hills, a meandering river, and dense forests.

The hiking opportunities in this area are exceptionally rewarding, offering suitable trails for all fitness levels along with spectacular views.

A highly recommended conclusion to your hike is reaching the serene hamlet of Frahan-sur-Semois, accessible via a steep path and a footbridge.

Conduct thorough research on the best routes prior to your expedition.

5. Step Back in Time to World War 2

The war museum in Bastogne provides a deeply immersive experience, utilizing audio guides with actors to vividly recreate the wartime atmosphere.

As expected, the museum details the events leading up to the war as well as significant occurrences within the war itself.

Additionally, the museum features an exhibit focused on regional war events, such as the Battle of the Bulge and the defense of Bastogne.

The presentations skillfully balance reading, listening, and viewing snippets of television footage, effectively holding the visitor’s interest.

6. Descend into the Blegny Mine

Across Europe, many mines and underground tourist attractions exist, yet Blegny stands out as one of the finest and most memorable experiences.

Simply equip yourself with a hard hat and descend into the mine to understand life as a Belgian miner from decades past.

The audio guide is especially suitable for non-French speakers, although the live French guides offer a more entertaining experience than their recorded counterparts.

7. Admire the Liege-Guillemins Station

The Liege-Guillemins station represents an extraordinary futuristic architecture that will appeal to architecture enthusiasts.

Conceived in 2009 by architect Santiago Calatrava, the station’s construction, though over budget and delayed, stands as a significant achievement of modern design.

8. See a Baroque Church

The Eglise St Loup in Namur exemplifies an impressive Baroque architectural masterpiece.

Previously described as both a “sinister and gallant marvel,” it piques significant curiosity.

The splendid architecture features ornate stone arches, statues, and a breathtaking ceiling.

At present, volunteers oversee museum operations, resulting in variable opening hours.

9. Siege the Chateau De Bouillon

This remarkable castle located in Bouillon stands as one of Belgium’s best-preserved feudal castles.

Dating back to the 10th century, the castle is a joy to explore, with numerous dark passageways and intriguing dungeons.

Investing in the audio guide proves worthwhile, as it offers substantial background information.

Daytime admission includes an opportunity to view the popular open-air bird show, featuring birds of prey such as hawks and owls.

10. Go Deeper Underground in Rochefort

Even if you have previously visited the Blegny Mine, a trip to the Grotte de Lorette in Rochefort remains worthwhile.

Venture down 626 precarious steps into the underground, and experience the cave’s unique darkness and impressive formations.

The cave tours typically involve small groups, providing a personalized feel.

Effective lighting highlights the cave’s depth (an impressive 65 meters) without detracting from the underground ambiance.

The tour culminates in a stunning light show within the main cave.

11. Undertake a Self-Guided Beer Tour

While pre-organized excursions for beer tours of the Ardennes can be quite expensive, arranging your own tour is more rewarding, enjoyable, and certainly cost-effective.

The region contains numerous esteemed breweries, making it easily feasible to plan a tour that includes Orval, Chimay, and Achouffe.

After visiting several premier breweries, you will gain valuable insights into the beer-making process and savor an array of excellent beers along the way.

12. Relax in the Beautiful Gardens of Annevoie

Les Jardins D’Annevoie, located just outside Namur, provide an inviting retreat for nature enthusiasts.

These gardens are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they are also recognized as a site of historical significance, reflected in their status as a key aspect of Walloon heritage.

Dating back to the 18th century, the gardens and the associated manor house invite exploration from visitors.

13. Visit the Old Town of Durbuy

East of Namur lies the charming town of Durbuy.

The town’s allure is immediately apparent; it features beautiful stone buildings set against lush, picturesque landscapes, all while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.

Durbuy claims the title of the smallest city in the world, boasting approximately 69 residents per square kilometer (in contrast to London’s approximately 4,500 residents per square kilometer). Despite its small size, this adorable city offers a variety of activities.

Visitors can enjoy a sightseeing train, a 14th-century brewery, and spectacular views from the Belvedere.

14. View the Liege Cathedral

Comparable in impressiveness to the Liege-Guillemins station but differing in style, the Liege Cathedral is noteworthy.

Constructed in the 17th century, the cathedral is particularly stunning when illuminated at night.

While it may not be among the most iconic cathedrals in Europe, it stands as the finest in the Ardennes, rendering it worthy of your visit if you are traveling in the area.

15. See Bears and Wolves

Not in their natural habitat, but within an impressive wildlife park.

Forestia, located in Theux, combines two attractions; an animal park housing deer, bears, boars, and wolves, as well as an exhilarating treetop obstacle course designed to challenge visitors of all ages.

The treetop activities cater to all ages, although they may not be suitable for those with acrophobia!