Things to Do in the Ardennes: The Complete Activity Guide

The Belgian Ardennes are among the most diverse regions in Western Europe for an active holiday. Across a vast area, dense forests, wide plateaus, river valleys, lakes and historic towns alternate. It is precisely this mix that makes the region so attractive: a holiday in the Ardennes can be active, family-friendly, culinary or cultural, without the need for long journeys. From hikes in the High Fens to kayaking trips on the Lesse and Ourthe, and from caves and castles to thermal spas, you’ll find activities here for all ages and every season. In this guide, you’ll discover the Ardennes’ main attractions, practical tips for exploring the region, and plenty of specific places to visit.

Hiking is arguably the most obvious and, at the same time, most versatile activity in the Ardennes. The region boasts a dense network of marked trails, ranging from short circular walks to longer GR routes. This is ideal, particularly in spring and autumn, as the temperatures are pleasant and the landscape is particularly striking.

If you want to start straight away with spectacular routes, you’ll find a good initial selection in our article on the Top 3 hikes in the Ardennes. These tend to be routes with an adventurous character – paths close to rivers, featuring rocks, elevation gains and a strong sense of the landscape.

For families, the region works quite differently, but just as well. Many trails are short, well signposted and can be combined with nature experiences, play areas or picnic spots. Our guide to hiking with children in the Ardennes is perfect for exactly that.

If you want to include water in your hike, the routes around Lac de Robertville or the Lakes of Eau d’Heure are particularly beautiful. Anyone interested will find suitable ideas in the article on Hiking by the lake in the Ardennes.

The area around Spa offers a special blend of nature and motorsport. There, forests, viewpoints and the famous race track combine surprisingly well, as our article on hiking around Spa-Francorchamps shows.

Last but not least, the High Fens are among Belgium’s most impressive landscapes. The raised bog landscape, with its wooden walkways, sweeping views and often harsh weather, feels quite different from the wooded valleys of the rest of the Ardennes. Many holiday homes in the Ardennes are situated so that you can set off on a hike straight away in the morning.

When many travellers ask about typical activities in the Ardennes, kayaking almost always tops the list. This is not only down to the landscape, but also because the region’s rivers offer a wide variety of experiences.

The best-known beginner’s tour is the descent along the Lesse near Dinant. Depending on the operator, the classic route is around 7 to 8 kilometres long and takes about two hours. It is well organised, scenic and suitable for beginners. That is precisely why it is so popular. You can find out more in our guide to kayaking near Dinant in the Ardennes.

The Ourthe around La Roche-en-Ardenne feels more challenging. The valley is narrower, the river landscape more dynamic, and the route feels a little wilder. For anyone looking for a bit more variety after their first day of kayaking, this is a good choice.

Things are calmer and often more relaxed on the Semois near Bouillon. This area is particularly beautiful if you’re looking for nature, calm waters and an almost meditative atmosphere. Especially when combined with a stay near Bouillon, this makes for a great half-day or full-day trip.

In summer, there are additional water activities: stand-up paddleboarding on calmer stretches, swimming in natural spots or canoe trips for smaller groups. Three simple rules are important here: set off early, take a change of clothes with you and always check the water level during rainy periods.

The Ardennes aren’t your typical flat-country destination, and that’s precisely what makes them so appealing to cyclists. Anyone who enjoys climbing, tackling technical sections or simply doesn’t want to stick to wide riverside paths will find ideal conditions here.

For mountain biking, many regions offer signposted networks with varying levels of difficulty. Sometimes the trails take you over forest floors and roots, sometimes over gravel, and sometimes over steeper sections. Our article on Mountain biking in the Ardennes offers an overview of particularly rewarding regions and routes.

The so-called RAVeL routes work quite differently. These run along former railway lines, are mostly wide, quiet and pleasant to cycle on. They are suitable for families, beginners and anyone who prefers a relaxed cycle to a competitive ride.

Road cyclists also appreciate the region. The hills and rolling landscape are one reason why the area is associated with races such as Liège–Bastogne–Liège. Even if you’re not on a classic road cycling route, you’ll soon realise: here, you don’t just ride; here, you work your way through the landscape.

Conveniently, e-bikes can be hired in many places. This makes the Ardennes much more accessible, especially if you’re out and about for several days or want to tackle longer tours even if you’re not particularly fit.

Many accommodation providers also offer secure parking spaces or storage rooms for bikes.

Among the most popular attractions in the Ardennes are the caves of the region, and for good reason. They are spectacular, weather-proof and exciting for children and adults alike.

The best known are the Caves of Han-sur-Lesse. The site is far more than just a cave: it forms part of the Domain of the Caves of Han, which includes a wildlife park, and the cave itself is one of Belgium’s major natural attractions. Official guided tours last around 1 hour 15 minutes or 2 hours, depending on the format.

The Caves of Remouchamps are particularly famous for their underground boat trip. It is precisely this element that makes a visit so memorable: not just looking, but actually travelling underground.

Less well-known, but often a bit more intimate, are the Hotton Caves. There, visitors can expect an impressive underground system with guided tours lasting around 60 minutes. If you’d like to get away from the big names, this is the place for you.

If you’d like to get an overview, you’ll find further inspiration in the article on the most beautiful caves in Belgium. Caves are one of the best places to visit in the Ardennes, especially on rainy days, as they combine adventure, nature and learning.

As much as the Ardennes are synonymous with nature, their cultural side is often underestimated. Yet towns, castles, museums and historic sites are clearly an integral part of a successful holiday in the Ardennes.

Durbuy is the best-known example of this. The town has long promoted itself as the smallest town in the world, and regardless of how one views this title, it is an atmospheric place with a medieval centre, fine dining and plenty of charm. You can read more about this in our article on Culture and Durbuy in the Ardennes.

Bouillon has a particularly rich history. The castle high above the Semois is one of Belgium’s most famous fortresses and is closely linked to Godfrey of Bouillon and the First Crusade. During the season, the birds of prey show is also one of the site’s attractions.

La Roche-en-Ardenne combines castle ruins, the Ourthe Valley and tourist facilities in a particularly accessible way. Added to this are museums dedicated to the Ardennes Offensive, which are found in several locations across the region and shed light on an important part of recent history.

And then there is Spa: the town whose name has become synonymous with wellness worldwide. Culture, spa traditions and historical significance intertwine here, making Spa much more than just a spa town. Those staying in well-located accommodation can easily combine many of these cultural destinations as day trips.

Cuisine is no mere afterthought in the Ardennes, but a destination in its own right. Anyone who thinks the region consists solely of forests and hiking trails is missing out on one of the most beautiful parts of the journey.

Belgian beer culture is, of course, a major attraction. Trappist beers such as Orval, Chimay and Rochefort are among the best-known beers in Europe. In addition, smaller breweries, such as Achouffe, have given the region a modern, artisanal profile.

The region also has its own distinct culinary identity. Ardennes ham, game dishes, hearty stews, local cheeses and seasonal cuisine are a natural part of the menu in many places. Especially in autumn, the game season plays an important role in many restaurants.

It becomes particularly appealing where produce and place come together: at weekly markets, with small producers, in chocolate shops or at farms selling regional specialities. It is precisely this mix that makes the region interesting, because enjoyment here is not confined to restaurants.

If you’d like to explore further, you’ll find more recommendations in our guide to Gastronomy in the Ardennes – from rustic eateries to ambitious cuisine.

The Ardennes aren’t just for getting active. It is precisely the contrast between activity and tranquillity that is one of their greatest attractions.

The town of Spa is the heart of this part of the region. The Thermes de Spa combine a long tradition of thermal bathing with modern facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and relaxation areas. The complex is currently open all year round, with seasonal specialities and occasional closures for maintenance.

However, many travellers today are looking not just for classic thermal baths, but for private retreats. This is precisely why accommodation with a sauna or hot tub is in such high demand. Our article on holiday homes with saunas and hot tubs in the Ardennes shows what such a stay can be like.

There are also quieter forms of relaxation: forest bathing in the region’s vast woodlands, yoga weekends, digital breaks or simply the conscious act of doing nothing after an active day. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for, you’ll find further inspiration in the article on digital detox in the Ardennes.

Spring

In spring, the Ardennes look particularly fresh. Wildflowers, full waterfalls and the first long days of hiking make this the ideal time for experiencing nature. Those who enjoy observing wildlife will also find excellent conditions for wildlife and birdwatching.

Summer

Summer is the peak season for kayaking, swimming, markets and long evenings outdoors. The rivers are at their busiest, many events take place outdoors, and the days are long enough for extended excursions.

Autumn

Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season in the Ardennes. The forests change colour spectacularly, the air becomes clearer and the region becomes particularly interesting from a culinary perspective. Guided mushroom foraging, harvest festivals, game dishes and regional specialities create exactly the kind of atmosphere that many associate with a successful autumn holiday.

Winter

In winter, the Ardennes become quieter, but by no means boring. Christmas markets in Durbuy, Bouillon or La Roche-en-Ardenne create a festive atmosphere, and in the High Fens, provided there is enough snow, cross-country skiing and winter hiking are possible. You can find out more in the guide to cross-country skiing and winter hiking in the Ardennes.

The Ardennes are so appealing precisely because they can be experienced in so many different ways. A day might start with a hike, continue with a visit to a cave, and end in the evening with a meal of local cuisine or a soak in the hot tub. It is exactly this variety that makes the region so special.

A holiday home is the ideal base for this. You can start the day flexibly, combine various destinations in the Ardennes without any rush, and don’t have to commit to just one activity. Discover suitable holiday homes in the Ardennes and plan your next adventure. For families, our article on a family weekend in the Ardennes is also a great read.