Hiking Adventure in the Belgian Ardennes – The Perfect Route Starting Right from Your Holiday Home

The Belgian Ardennes are a true hiker’s paradise – and we want to show you why. As an avid hiker and member of the Casapilot team, I had the idea to share our tours with you and let you experience the beauty of this region for yourself. From now on, every two weeks we’ll lace up our hiking boots 🥾 and head out directly from one of our holiday homes. We’ll share our experiences and routes with you – sometimes relaxed, sometimes adventurous, but always right in the heart of nature. You can find the exact routes on our blog or on komoot. Just download the app, visit our Casapilot profile, and start exploring! I’m sure the perfect route is just a click away. And who knows – maybe your next hike will start right from your holiday home. So check back regularly – it’s worth it!

Casapilot assumes no liability for any incidents or accidents – even if they are caused by falling branches, trees, or poor conditions of roads and structures. In case of an accident or injury, please call the emergency number 112. We also recommend downloading the ECHO 112 app in advance, which allows emergency services to locate you more easily.

On 12/04/2025 we started this time from our luxury suite on Lake Bütgenbach.
You can find the hike on komoot under: Natur pur am Bütgenbacher See: Once around the Bütgenbacher See - and in a very relaxed way. The well-maintained path mostly leads directly along the water, through peaceful forests and open nature. Along the way, there are plenty of beautiful places to rest and soak it all in. The tour is easy to walk, ideal for families or anyone who simply wants to take a leisurely stroll. Highlight: the dam wall with its stunning view over the lake.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Wellness-Suite BE-1084092-Bütgenbach Alternatively: Parking lot at the Worriken Sports & Leisure Center in Bütgenbach.
• Distance: Around 10.4 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate – suitable even for casual walkers. Well-marked, easy trails, no special skills needed.
• Duration: Approx. 3 hours, depending on breaks and pace
• Ascent: 70 m; Descent: 60 m

Getting There & Parking

🚗 By car:

• Parking: Free parking is available at the Worriken leisure centre or at Hotel Du Lac/Alter Bahnhof.
• Address: Worriken Leisure Centre: Worriken 1, 4750 Bütgenbach; Hotel Du Lac/Alter Bahnhof: Seestraße 53, 475

1. Lake Bütgenbach itself: A calm, mirror-like surface – the perfect place to unwind and take in the moment. Stunning photo ops at sunrise or sunset create memories you won’t forget.
2. Lakeside trails & nature paths: A varied mix of wide paths and narrow tracks hugging the shore, surrounded by forest, clearings, and open meadows – ideal for relaxed, nature-filled hikes.

3. Bütgenbach Dam: The trail crosses the impressive dam, offering a close-up view of its architecture – plus sweeping views over the lake and surrounding landscape.
4. Rest spots & benches along the way: Great for a breather, picnic, or just enjoying the view – many with direct lake access.
5. Worriken Leisure Center: A nice spot to take a break or grab a quick snack.

• Costs: The hike is free and accessible at any time.
• What to Bring: Although the route is not too demanding, it is advisable to bring enough water, especially on warmer days. There are several opportunities for breaks and refreshments along the route: Worriken Recreation Centre or Carol's Resto.
• Best time to visit: The best time is May to October, depending on whether you're looking for blossom, bathing or autumn colours. If you love peace and quiet, spring and autumn are great - if you want action and life by the lake, summer is ideal.
• Gear: Comfortable, weatherproof hiking shoes with good grip are ideal, as some parts can get slippery when wet.

Tips:

• At Lake Bütgenbach, you’ll find a 150-meter sandy beach—perfect for spreading out your towel and soaking up the sun. The beach is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM during July and August (weather permitting). Entry: €3.50 for adults, €2.50 for children aged 6 and up.
• Looking for more action? You can also go sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, or simply take a refreshing swim in the lake.
• Just a short walk from the lake, Pub 24 serves up delicious burgers and a fantastic selection of beers—highly recommended!
• Restaurant Brüls: A fourth-generation family-run gem combining traditional flavors with modern creativity. Stylish, seasonal, and full of heart.
• The restaurant im Bütgenbacher Hof offers refined regional cuisine with a modern twist, elegant setting, fresh ingredients, and top-notch service.

No komoot? No problem, just follow the sign: "Around the lake".

On 29/03/2025, we set off from our exclusive luxury holiday home in Xhoffraix BE-1091349-Xhoffraix. You can find the hike on komoot under the title: Die Gipfel der Warche take you on a varied hike through the idyllic landscapes of Eastern Belgium. Starting in Xhoffraix, you’ll follow scenic trails, enjoy stunning views (including a look at the Reinhardstein Castle), and experience the pure joy of nature. With every step, take in the unique charm of the region and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the Warche.

Important information about the route

• Starting point: Holiday home BE-1091349-Xhoffraix Alternative: Playground in Xhoffraix
• Distance: Around 17 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging hike. A good level of fitness is required. Mostly well-maintained paths. Sure-footedness is essential.
• Duration: Around 4-5 hours, depending on pace and breaks
• Ascent: 410 m; Descent: 430 m

Getting There & Parking

🚗 By car:

• Address: At the playground in Xhoffraix, 28, rue Marie Solheid, 4950 Malmedy
• Parking: Free parking available next to the playground

1. Relaxation by the Water: After the biting wind on the plateau, the banks of the Warche and the Bayehon invite you to take a well-earned break.
2. Natural Color Contrast: As you climb out of the valley, the crystal-clear river water stands out beautifully against the lush green surroundings.

3. Historic Stopover: Hidden in the quiet seclusion of the forest lies Reinhardstein Castle – a true historical highlight.
4. Challenging Ascent: The steep and slippery trail up to the ridge demands full concentration, but rewards you with sweeping views of the Warche’s gentle curves winding through the valley.

5. Robertville Dam: Another highlight is the impressive Robertville Dam, whose vast waterscape creates a striking contrast to the surrounding natural scenery.
6. Adventurous Descent: A steep, almost mountaineering-style descent leads down to the campsite by the old mill – the gateway to the Warche Valley.

• Costs: The hike is free of charge and accessible at any time.
• What to Bring: Be sure to bring water. Along the way, you’ll find several idyllic spots to rest or enjoy a picnic. There are two places to grab a bite to eat or drink: the Chalet du Barrage near the Robertville Dam and Camping du Moulin in Bevercé.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer lush green forests and pleasant temperatures. Winter hikes are also highly recommended – just be cautious of icy conditions.
• Gear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential, as the trail can be slippery in some sections.

Tips:

• Treat yourself to a local beer 🍻 at Camping du Moulin – the selection is wide and sure to please. Just don’t forget: there’s still a short stretch of the trail ahead of you!
• No komoot? No problem! Simply follow the trail marked with a green rectangle and the “duck” logo.