1. Nature

Think of the Ardennes and you think of nature. Forests, hills, and rivers alternate, offering ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, motorcycling, and, with sufficient snow, cross-country skiing and downhill skiing. The High Fens – Hautes Fagnes – is the largest nature park in the region, with heathland, forests, and peat bogs home to rare plant and animal species. Hiking is only permitted on designated trails or with a guide. The Signal de Botrange is the highest point, at 694m.

2. Kayaking

Discover the Ardennes from the water. Rent a kayak or canoe and take an adventurous trip on the Ourthe, Lesse, Ambleve, or Semois rivers. You can rent a canoe or kayak from various departure points and paddle through the beautiful countryside. The Semois flows south, parallel to the French border, passing Bouillon and other villages. You can canoe on the Ourthe near La Roche-en-Ardenne and Durbuy. If you visit the Remouchamps caves, you can combine this with a canoe trip on the Lesse. You can paddle on the Ambleve near Malmedy, Stavelot, and Trois Ponts. 

3. Castles and forts

The Ardennes boasts many castles. Some have been restored, such as the Château de Moldave near Durbuy. Built in the 13th century as a defensive fortress high on a rocky promontory, it was rebuilt in the 17th century in French style. There are approximately 20 period rooms to admire. The Château de Bouillon is a military fortress, built on a rocky outcrop in a bend in the river. No stately rooms, but secret passages and dining rooms, a prison, a powder magazine, and towers. During the summer months, there's a bird of prey show, and you can participate in a thrilling torchlight procession through the castle. Check opening hours in advance, as the castles are not open year-round.

4. Cross-country skiing and downhill skiing

When snow falls in the Ardennes, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and downhill skiing in various locations. Don't expect ski resorts like those in Austria or France; each resort has one or a few ski lifts, and ski passes range in price from €10-15 per day. Popular areas include Baraque Fraiture near Vielsalm, Val de Wanne near Trois Ponts, Ferme Libert near Malmedy, and Ovifat near Robertville. There are surprisingly beautiful cross-country ski trails in places like Spa, Xhoffraix, Manderfeld, Bertrix, Stavelot, and St. Hubert. With their snow-capped treetops, it's a magical setting. The Ardennes aren't guaranteed snow, but as soon as snow falls, the slopes are bustling.

5. Caves

Several caves in the Ardennes are open to the public. The Remouchamps Caves are the most famous. Some of them were already inhabited in prehistoric times. Led by a guide, you'll discover stalagmites and stalactites, and arrive at the Cathedral, where you can return by boat on the underground river. The Han Caves are considered among the most beautiful. You can also visit a wildlife park here, where you can encounter the European Big 5: lynx, brown bear, European bison, wolf, and wolverine.

6. Namur

Namur is the capital of Wallonia and has a historic center with charming shops and cafes. Visit the Citadel, the highest point of the city and former residence of the counts. It offers a beautiful view of the city. The old center has a unique atmosphere; the alleys are pedestrianized, and you'll see architectural treasures such as the belfry (clock tower) and the Saint-Aubain Cathedral. The Annevoie Gardens lie between Namur and Dinant. Experts consider them among the most beautiful in Europe. You'll find dozens of waterfalls and fountains, pools, ponds, and stately trees in beautiful symmetrical rows, set in French, English, or Italianate landscapes.