Experience Belgium: Hiking in the Ardennes - Top 5 hiking trails with insider tips

Belgium inspires hikers! The Ardennes offer fantastic routes for every group: couples, families or friends. Discover 5 personal favourite routes - with tips, highlights and experiences from our guests.

The Belgian Ardennes are one of the most beautiful hiking regions in Europe. Impressive river landscapes, mysterious forests and spectacular panoramic views await you here - ideal for hiking with the family, as a couple or in a group. To find the best hiking trails, we asked our guests for their personal favourites. The result? 5 unforgettable hiking trails in the Ardennes with valuable tips and real experiences.

The Belgian Ardennes are a paradise for nature and hiking enthusiasts. With dense forests, clear rivers and impressive views, they offer a variety of hiking trails that will delight experienced hikers as well as families and groups of friends. But which routes are really an experience?

We asked our guests and collected their personal favourite hikes. The result is the Top 5 hiking trails, which impress with both their scenic beauty and special experiences.

You can look forward to:

• Romantic river valleys for couples,
• Adventurous high moors** for the whole family,
• Relaxing circular routes** for groups of friends,
• and challenging panoramic routes that reward every effort. Be inspired by the experiences of our guests and plan your next hike in the Ardennes - with real highlights and practical tips for the road!

The Ninglinspo Trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Belgian Ardennes and is ideal for those who want to combine nature experiences and romance. The trail runs along Belgium's only mountain river and features waterfalls, rocky paths and spectacular viewpoints.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Sedoz car park, Aywaille (near Remouchamps)
• Length: Around 6 km (outward and return journey)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderately difficult - surefootedness required
• Duration**: Approx. 2-3 hours, depending on breaks and pace

Arrival & Parking

By car:

• Address: Sedoz car park, 4900 Aywaille, Belgium
• Access: From Liège approx. 40 minutes via the E25 (exit 46 Aywaille).
• Parking: Free ‘Sedoz’ car park directly at the starting point. Alternative parking options approx. 10 minutes' walk away, as the main car park fills up quickly at weekends.

By public transport:

• Train to Aywaille (from Liège approx. 30 minutes).
• Continue with bus line 64 to ‘Sedoz Ninglinspo’.

Highlights along the route

1st The mountain river Ninglinspo: Picturesque river course with clear pools and small waterfalls. Perfect for a short break by the water.

2 Natural bathing pools: Small pools of water invite you to take a refreshing dip in warm weather.

3rd Viewpoint ‘Drouet ’ A short climb leads to a breathtaking view over the Ardennes - the perfect end to the hike.

Tips from our guests: Claudia & Thomas

"The Ninglinspo Trail was a real highlight! The mixture of waterfalls, rocks and forest was simply marvellous. The Drouet viewpoint was particularly beautiful - the climb is absolutely worth it. Tip: start early and take a small picnic with you to enjoy the most beautiful spots in peace."

Practical information

• Costs: The hike is free and accessible at all times.
• Facilities: No toilets or catering facilities along the trail - be sure to take provisions and water with you.
• Best time to go: Spring and autumn for green forests and pleasant temperatures.
• Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots are required as the trail can be slippery in places.

The Ninglinspo Trail is an impressive mix of waterfalls, rocky trails and spectacular views. This varied route along Belgium's only mountain river offers relaxation, adventure and unforgettable moments amidst the unspoiled nature of the Ardennes. Whether for a short break or an active day of hiking - this trail is a real highlight and shows Belgium from its most beautiful side.

The High Fens is one of the most impressive and unique landscapes in Belgium. This hike leads through a vast high moor with wooden footbridges, unspoilt nature and fascinating views. A perfect route for anyone looking for peace and quiet and who wants to experience the beauty of this special region.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: ‘Baraque Michel’ car park (High Fens, Route de Botrange)
• Length: Approx. 8 km (circular route)
• Difficulty: Easy - suitable for all ages
• Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours

Arrival & Parking

By car:

• Address: Baraque Michel, 4950 Jalhay, Belgium
• Access:** From Eupen or Malmedy you can reach the starting point in about 30 minutes.
• Parking: Large car park directly at the Baraque Michel (free of charge).

By public transport:

• Train to Eupen or Malmedy. Continue by taxi or occasionally by bus in the direction of Baraque Michel.
• Note: The connection is difficult as buses only run infrequently. For a flexible journey, we recommend using a car.

Highlights along the route

1. wooden footbridges:** A large part of the route leads over wooden planks that run through the moor. The feeling of ‘floating over the landscape’ is unique.

2nd Fascinating moorland landscape: The wide plain with its grasses and small patches of water has a calming and almost mystical effect - especially in light mist.

3 Baraque Michel cross viewpoint: A historic site and a wonderful place to enjoy the view of the moor.

Tips from our guests: Keller Family

"Our children loved the hike in the High Fens! The long wooden footbridges almost felt like an adventure course to them. We took short breaks every now and then and tried to spot animals - the tranquillity of the landscape was good for us all. In the end, we were tired but happy."

Your tips:

• A small pair of binoculars ensures that the children have fun and can explore the wildlife.
• Pack snacks and water - there are no opportunities to stop for refreshments.
• Start early to enjoy the special tranquillity of the high moor before it gets crowded.

The hike through the High Fens offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Belgium's most fascinating landscapes. The wooden footbridges and the extensive moor create a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere that invites you to switch off and enjoy. A real highlight for anyone who loves nature and open spaces!

The Fond de l'Étang loop is an idyllic circular trail that is perfect for nature lovers and groups who want to spend a relaxing day outdoors. The trail runs alongside a tranquil lake and through the surrounding woods - ideal for switching off, watching the birdlife and enjoying time together.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Car park at the Fond de l'Étang lake, 08230 Liart (French Ardennes, near the Belgian border)
• Length: Approx. 5 km (circular route)
• Difficulty: Easy - flat route, ideal for all ages
• Duration: Approx. 1.5-2 hours

Arrival & Parking

By car:

• Destination address: Parking Étang de Liart, 08230 Liart, France
  From Charleville-Mézières it is about 40 minutes by car.
• Parking: A free car park is located directly at the starting point of the circular route.

By public transport:

• Train to Charleville-Mézières, then continue by bus in the direction of Liart.
• Note: The bus service is very limited (infrequent on weekdays, hardly available at weekends). The walk from the nearest bus stops to the starting point is approx. 4 km. A car is therefore strongly recommended.

Highlights along the route

1. The quiet lake:
   The hike takes you around the Fond de l'Étang, an idyllic lake surrounded by forests. The landscape is beautifully reflected in the water, especially in the morning.

2nd Diverse bird life:
The wildlife along the lake and in the surrounding woods is excellent to observe. Water birds such as ducks and herons can be spotted here.

3rd Picnic spots on the shore:
Several seating areas and small clearings on the lakeshore invite you to take a break with a view of the water.

Tips from our guests: Kleinbauer & co

"There were six of us travelling and we wanted a route that wasn't too long and was special at the same time. The circular route was perfect! We enjoyed nature in peace and quiet, took plenty of time for photos and took a short break at one of the picnic spots. It was the perfect place to switch off completely with friends."

Your tips:

• Take binoculars with you: The lake is a birdwatcher's paradise.
• Start early in the morning to experience the silence and beautiful light of the lake.
• Pack a blanket and provisions - the picnic spots are perfect for a break.

Practical information

• Costs: The hike is free and accessible at all times.
• Facilities: A few places to sit along the lake, but no toilets or catering facilities on site.
• Best time to visit:** Spring and autumn - especially beautiful when the trees along the lakeshore change colour.
• Equipment: Comfortable shoes and a camera for the many photo spots.

The Fond de l'Étang Loop circular trail is the ideal route for those who want to spend a relaxing day in nature. Whether for birdwatching, a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the lake, this trail offers relaxation and beautiful views in the midst of the tranquil Ardennes landscape.

The Ourthe Loop is a highlight for hiking enthusiasts who crave challenges and spectacular views. This demanding route leads through the Ourthe valley and rewards you with picturesque panoramas, varied passages and the unspoiled beauty of the Ardennes.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Car park in the village of La Roche-en-Ardenne
• Length: Approx. 12 km (circular route)
• Difficulty: Demanding - steep climbs and uneven paths
• Duration: Approx. 4-5 hours (depending on breaks and pace)

Arrival & Parking

By car:

• Address: Place du Bronze, 6980 La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium
• Access: From Liège approx. 1 hour via the N4.
• Parking: There is a large paid car park at the start of the hike.

By public transport:

• Train to Melreux-Hotton, then by bus to La Roche-en-Ardenne.
• Note: Bus connections are irregular, so travelling by car is easier and more flexible.

Highlights along the route

1. The Ourthe loop:
   The hike leads along the River Ourthe, which makes a picturesque loop through the Ardennes landscape.

2. Spectacular viewpoints:
   From the highest points of the hike, you have a breathtaking view of the valley and the surrounding forests - ideal for a break with a view of the countryside.

3. Castle view in La Roche-en-Ardenne:
   A special highlight: the impressive castle ruins are well worth a visit! The castle towers above the town and is another highlight, especially for photo enthusiasts.

Tips from our guests: Hannes & Peter

"The Ourthe Loop was just right for us - a challenging route with plenty of metres of elevation gain and fantastic views. The steep climbs challenged us, but the view of the valley was worth every effort. At the end of the hike, we treated ourselves to a cold drink in one of the cafés in La Roche-en-Ardenne - the perfect end to a long day."

Your tips:

• Sturdy hiking boots are essential as the path is steep and uneven in places.
• Don't forget a camera - the views are spectacular.
• Start early in the day to allow enough time for breaks and a visit to the castle ruins.

Practical tips

• Costs: The hike itself is free of charge. There is a small entrance fee for the castle ruins (approx. €5 for adults).
• Facilities: There are toilets and small cafés in the village of La Roche-en-Ardenne.
• Best time to go: Spring and autumn - pleasant temperatures and colourful forests make the route particularly beautiful.
• Equipment: Take sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water and snacks.

The Ourthe Loop is the perfect route for anyone who wants to experience a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramas. The combination of steep climbs, quiet forest paths and the impressive views over the Ourthe valley make this route an unforgettable nature experience. Whether as a sporting goal or as a day trip with friends and family - this hike shows the Ardennes at their most beautiful and wildest.

The Sentier des Crêtes is one of the most beautiful panoramic trails in the Ardennes and delights hiking enthusiasts with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. This varied route is ideal for groups of friends or larger families who want to enjoy nature together and experience a real adventure.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Car park at the Botrange Nature Park Centre, 4950 Waimes
• Length: Approx. 7 km (circular route)
• Difficulty: Medium - a few short climbs, but easily walkable
• Duration: Approx. 2.5-3 hours

Arrival & Parking

By car:

• Address: Botrange Nature Park Centre, Route de Botrange 131, 4950 Waimes

• Access: From Malmedy it is about 20 minutes by car.

• Parking: Free parking is available directly at the nature park centre.

By public transport:

• Train to Eupen or Verviers, then by bus (line 394) to "Botrange Centre Nature ’.
• Note: The connections are better than on other routes, but departure times should be checked in advance.

Highlights along the route

1. High-altitude trails with great views:
   The hiking trail leads along the crêtes of the Ardennes, from where you can enjoy impressive views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

2. Pure nature experience:
   The route is characterised by a mixture of forest paths, high meadows and small streams, which makes the hike particularly varied and exciting.

3 Photogenic places to take a break:
Several marked viewpoints invite you to take short breaks and offer perfect photo opportunities - especially on a clear day.

Tips from our guests: Markus & Sonja

We wanted a hike that would challenge us but also offer many beautiful moments - and the Sentier des Crêtes was ideal. The views were really magnificent, especially at the high points. We took a break at one point, enjoyed the sun and simply took in the view in peace. A great day out in nature!

Your tips:

• Start early to enjoy the route in good light and with less hustle and bustle.
• Pack a light jacket: It can get windy on the high-altitude trails.
• Take a thermos flask of coffee or tea with you - the viewpoints are perfect for a break.

Practical tips

• Costs: The walk is accessible free of charge.
• Facilities: Toilets and a small café are located at the Botrange Nature Park Centre.
• Best time to go: Spring to autumn - the panoramas are particularly impressive on a clear day.
• Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots, a light jacket and plenty of water.

The Sentier des Crêtes offers a varied hiking experience with spectacular views and the beauty of the Ardennes landscape. Whether for couples, groups or families - the high-altitude trails and viewpoints invite you to enjoy unforgettable moments in nature. A real insider tip for anyone who wants to combine space, tranquillity and adventure.

The Belgian Ardennes offer an impressive variety of hiking trails that will delight nature lovers and adventurers alike. From tranquil rivers and mystical moorland landscapes to challenging panoramic trails - there is something for everyone here. Whether a relaxed stroll or a sporting challenge, the five routes presented here show just how unique and varied the Ardennes are.

Pack your hiking boots and experience the beauty of this special region for yourself - unforgettable moments await you!