Things to do in Durbuy: your complete activity guide to the Ardennes' most charming town

Durbuy is considered the smallest town in the world, yet when it comes to things to do, it is every bit as good as much larger destinations. Situated right on the banks of the Ourthe and surrounded by the wooded hills of the Ardennes, the town combines a compact medieval old town with a surprisingly wide range of experiences. With its cobbled streets, kayaking tours, hiking trails and outdoor parks, it makes for a versatile destination for a day trip. In this guide, you’ll discover the main sights of Durbuy, practical tips and specific activities for your stay.

The title ‘smallest town in the world’ dates back to a charter granted in 1331, which remains in force to this day. In fact, the historic centre comprises just a few streets with a few hundred residents, yet it is precisely this compactness that gives it its special charm.

Durbuy lies in a bend of the River Ourthe and is surrounded by dense forests and striking rock formations. The Falize rock behind the centre is over 300 million years old and has a distinct impact on the landscape. Despite its small size, visitors will find an unusually high concentration of activities, restaurants and nature experiences here.

From many holiday homes in the Ardennes, you can reach Durbuy in around 30 to 45 minutes, making the town an ideal destination for spontaneous day trips. Those seeking greater comfort can also find a luxury holiday home in the Ardennes as a peaceful base for several days.

Kayaking on the Ourthe

One of the most popular activities around Durbuy is a kayaking trip on the Ourthe. The classic route runs from Barvaux to Durbuy and covers around 10 kilometres. Depending on your pace, the trip takes between two and three hours.

The route is also suitable for beginners, as the river is generally calm. Children can usually take part from around the age of six, often in sturdy multi-person boats. The combination of experiencing nature and physical activity is particularly enjoyable: you paddle through wooded valleys and reach Durbuy directly from the water.

In high season, it’s worth booking a day in advance, as demand is high in July and August. The best time is between May and September, depending on the water level.

Adventure Valley Durbuy

Just above the town lies Adventure Valley, one of the region’s largest outdoor parks. The focus here is not on a single activity, but on a whole day full of possibilities.

The activities on offer include climbing parks with various levels of difficulty, zip lines, via ferrata routes and underground cave explorations. There is also mountain bike and e-bike hire, as well as organised kayaking tours.

Of particular interest to families is the fact that there are dedicated children’s courses, whilst adults can find more demanding challenges. Anyone wishing to combine several activities should allow at least half a day, or better still a full day.

Hiking around Durbuy

The area around Durbuy is ideal for hikes of all lengths. Several marked trails lead straight from the town centre into the surrounding woods.

A particularly popular circular route is the Sentier des Crêtes, a panoramic trail along the ridges with views of the Ourthe Valley. For shorter walks, there are easy one- to two-hour strolls, such as to the Falize Rock.

Those with more time can hike towards Wéris, home to one of Belgium’s most significant megalithic sites. This combination of nature and history makes the region particularly diverse.

You can find further inspiration in the article on Hiking in the Ardennes around Dinant, which presents additional routes and landscapes.

Exploring the historic old town

The old town of Durbuy is the heart of the town and one of its main attractions. Narrow streets, 17th-century stone houses and small squares create an almost fairy-tale atmosphere.

A highlight is the Parc des Topiaires, featuring over 250 artistically trimmed boxwood figures. The park is one of the largest of its kind and is particularly popular with families.

Although the Château de Durbuy is not open to the public, it significantly shapes the town’s skyline. The experience is complemented by small boutiques, arts and crafts, and local specialities such as handmade jams.

Those wishing to learn more about the cultural side of things can also use the blog Cultural Weekend in Durbuy as a more in-depth guide.

Other activities and excursions

In addition to the main attractions, there are numerous other places to visit around Durbuy.

The Durbuy Maze in Barvaux is a huge maize maze covering around 11 hectares and is open mainly between July and October. It is one of the region’s most popular destinations for families.

Just about 15 minutes away lie the impressive Hotton Caves. The article on Caves in Belgium provides an overview of similar destinations.

The megaliths of Wéris are also well worth a visit. Dolmens and menhirs from the Stone Age make this site one of the most historically fascinating destinations in the Ardennes.

The range of activities is complemented by mountain bike trails, cycle paths along the Ourthe and even an 18-hole golf course in the immediate vicinity of the town centre.

Despite its small size, Durbuy offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining options. The choice ranges from simple bistros to upmarket restaurants.

Typical of the region are Ardennes specialities such as air-dried ham, game dishes and hearty pâtés. Venison and wild boar feature on many menus, particularly in autumn.

Beer also plays an important role. The well-known La Chouffe brand originates from the region and is brewed just 20 minutes away.

At the weekend, it is advisable to book early, as many visitors come to Durbuy specifically for the restaurants. Those wishing to delve deeper into the culinary side of things will find further inspiration in the article on Gourmet Experiences in the Ardennes.

Durbuy is ideal for families. The town is compact, largely car-free and offers plenty of activities for all age groups.

Kayaking is suitable for children aged six and above and is often offered in sturdy family boats. Adventure Valley has dedicated areas for younger visitors, so children can take part safely.

The Parc des Topiaires provides entertainment with its topiary figures, whilst the Durbuy maze is a particular highlight in summer.

For a successful day out, we recommend a combination of activity and relaxation, such as a morning at Adventure Valley followed by an afternoon stroll through the old town. Further ideas can be found in the guide to Family weekends in the Ardennes.

Durbuy is centrally located in the Ardennes and can be reached from many holiday homes in around 30 to 60 minutes.

From Germany, you can reach the town from Aachen in around 1.5 hours and from Cologne in about 2.5 hours. The journey is usually via the motorways towards Liège and then along well-maintained country roads.

In the centre itself, traffic is heavily restricted. Visitors are best advised to use the car parks outside the old town and walk or take a shuttle. In high season, it’s worth arriving early.

Half a day is enough for the main sights, whilst a full day is necessary if you also want to go kayaking or visit the Adventure Park.

Many activities, such as hiking or visiting the old town, are free. For kayaking or Adventure Valley, you should expect to pay around 20 to 35 euros per person.

Durbuy combines medieval charm with active experiences all within a compact area. With its cobbled streets, river scenery and woodlands, it makes for a day trip that perfectly blends nature, exercise and enjoyment.

If you’d like to explore the region at your own pace, it’s well worth finding accommodation nearby.