Discover the ultimate European Roadtrip
Alluring Ardennes
Liège - Liège
Draped across Belgium and Luxembourg, spilling into France and Germany, the Ardennes is one of Europe’s
most luxuriant forests. Roads wind through rolling hills, carpeted in dense woodland, and towns and
villages nestle in the crook of valleys.In this road trip, we discover the best the Ardennes has to
offer – with a stop for a relaxing spa and a massage along the way, of course.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 1: Montagne de Bueren 1/10
Our Ardennes road trip starts in Liège, the so-called Fervent City. Built over centuries of history – as far back as the Romans – it’s a proud and welcoming place. See it at its most beautiful from the Montagne de Bueren, an extraordinary, 374-step staircase – it’s a tourist attraction in itself. Once you’ve conquered the challenge, you’ll be greeted with views across Liège and the Ardennes beyond.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 2: Les Thermes de Spa 2/10
The town of Spa has been something of a global retreat for centuries, even millennia. It’s just as popular now as it was with the Romans – it’s the town that gave us the word, spa. Unwind and relax in the perfect, 33°C natural baths at Les Thermes de Spa, which overlooks the town. Surrounded by nature and housed in a striking and modern building, there are indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a variety of indulgent treatments, including massages.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 3: Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps 3/10
Just minutes from this tranquil city sits ‘the most beautiful circuit in the world’. Cutting its way through thick, tall forests between the hills, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is a motorsport icon, up there with the Germany’s Nürburgring and Le Mans’ Circuit de la Sarthe in France. It’s at its best during a race weekend – greats such as Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton have all found victory here. The intimidating, uphill corner of Eau Rouge – leading straight into Raidillon, over the crest – is a legend in itself.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 4: Le Parc à Gibier de La Roche 4/10
See the Ardennes’ wildlife up close at Le Parc à Gibier de La Roche. Follow the 1.2km walking trail to delve deep into the forest and see fallow deer, boars, wolves and foxes in their natural habitat. Finish at the small farm where children can feed the donkeys, goats, ducks and ponies. If you’re enjoying a weekend road trip, there are plenty of campsites around La Roche-en-Ardenne.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 5: Bastogne War Museum 5/10
For all its beauty, the Ardennes suffered during World War II. Learn about life in Belgium during the war, including the Battle of the Bulge in the winter of 1944-1945, at the Bastogne War Museum. Hear stories from locals and soldiers, see memorabilia and join a walking tour across the famous battle sites. Close by is the famous Mardasson Memorial, which honours the American soldiers who were wounded or killed on Belgium soil.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 6: Chateau de Bouillon 6/10
Sat atop the town it calls home, Chateau de Bouillon is a striking medieval castle with some of the best views in the region. Reach the top of the walls to soak up the impressive views of the River Semois and the Ardennes. Inside, explore dark tunnels, winding passageways and fortified rooms. Visit at night for an eerie candlelit experience by tour guides who look like they’ve come straight from the Middle Ages.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 7: Domain of the Caves of Han 7/10
Located in the centre of Ardennes’ UNESCO Global Geopark, Domain of the Caves of Han is a natural paradise.Walk deep into the caves to discover nature at its most beautiful. The curving of the limestone against the stalactites are natural works of art, while the underground light show will take you on an epic journey through time. Back on the surface, the wildlife park spans 2.5 square kilometres of greenery and features more than 650 animals in their natural habitat.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 8: Caves of Hotton 8/10
The Caves of Hotton are a protected part of the region’s vast heritage – and for good reason. This geological gem’s first appearance in the modern world was by pure coincidence when clearing out Hotton quarry in 1958 and has been a highlight of Ardennes ever since. Descend 65 metres underground to explore the mysteries within – including the impressive Syphon, a crystal-clear stream with a terrifying roar that echoes through the hollow halls.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 9: The Labyrinth of Barvaux-sur-Ourthe 9/10
Get lost in nature – the fun way – at Durbuy’s gigantic green labyrinth. Each summer, the maze chooses a unique theme. There are more than 6km of walkways to explore on your voyage to the centre. Bump into actors along the way and pass their challenges for clues on where to turn next. For even more brainteasers, the Labyrinth of Doors features a tangle of puzzles to crack. Meanwhile, the Biodiversity Labyrinth celebrates the Ardennes’ wonderful wildlife.
Alluring Ardennes
Stop 10: Parc Boverie 10/10
We complete our road trip in Parc Boverie, an island oasis between the River Meuse and the Dérivation canal. Find a quiet spot along the river, by a pond or next to the rose garden to take in the calming scenery and to readjust to Liège’s energy. While you’re here, visit the Musée de la Boverie, which is both a fine art museum and an exhibition centre.
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