Things to Do in Ardennes

Ardennes has Belgium's highest point at just 694 meters. This southeastern region stretches across rolling hills, dense forests, and medieval castles that look plucked from fairy tales. Belgium's wild heart beats here. You can hike ancient woodlands in the morning, kayak the Semois River after lunch, then sleep in an actual castle. The landscape feels genuinely untamed compared to the rest of Belgium—deep valleys carved by meandering rivers, hilltops crowned with fortress ruins that have witnessed centuries of European history. Outdoor adventure meets cultural richness well here. Towns like Dinant and Durbuy maintain their medieval charm while offering modern amenities, and the region's food reflects both its forest setting and sophisticated traditions. Think wild boar and local trout. You'll find locals still hunt and fish, seasonal rhythms matter, and life slows down enough to appreciate both natural beauty and historical weight.

Ardennes food celebrates forests and rivers. Wild boar appears on most menus, often slow-cooked with local beer or juniper berries, while fresh trout from mountain streams anchors another specialty—the famous Ardennes ham pairs beautifully with local breads and cheeses. Many restaurants occupy historic buildings with stone walls and wooden beams. Don't skip the local beers. Several small breweries produce distinctive ales that reflect the terroir, and restaurant quality varies significantly. The best places often hide in smaller towns where chefs focus on traditional preparations using local ingredients.

Late spring through early fall works best. May through September brings particularly pleasant weather for hiking and kayaking, though summer also brings the largest crowds when Belgian families take vacations in July and August. Fall can be spectacular with dense forests turning brilliant colors in October. Winter has its own appeal here. The landscape takes on stark beauty, and cozy restaurants become even more inviting—but many attractions have limited hours and weather can make driving challenging.