Things to Do in Spa

Spa might be Belgium's most famous wellness destination, but this elegant town in the Ardennes actually offers much more than its thermal springs would suggest. The name 'spa' itself comes from this very place, where European aristocracy once flocked to take the waters and try their luck at the casino. Today, you'll find a surprisingly sophisticated town that balances its wellness heritage with outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. The surrounding Ardennes forests provide excellent hiking and cycling, while the town center retains that refined atmosphere that made it popular with the well-heeled crowd centuries ago. Interestingly, Spa manages to feel both historic and refreshingly modern - the thermal baths have been updated with contemporary facilities, yet the grand Belle Époque architecture remains largely intact.

Spa's dining scene reflects its upscale heritage, with several restaurants serving refined Belgian and French cuisine. The area around the casino and thermal baths offers the most options, ranging from casual brasseries to more formal establishments. Local specialties include Ardennes ham, regional cheeses, and game dishes that make good use of the surrounding forests. You'll find decent cafés for lighter meals, though options become limited outside the main tourist areas. The brewery restaurant serves hearty fare alongside their beverages, while hotel restaurants tend to offer reliable if unremarkable international cuisine.

Late spring through early autumn provides the most pleasant weather for both outdoor activities and thermal bathing. Summer brings the warmest temperatures and longest days, ideal for hiking and enjoying Lake Warfaaz, though this is also peak tourist season. Autumn offers beautiful forest colors and fewer crowds, making it particularly appealing for nature lovers. Winter can be quite cold and wet, but the thermal baths feel especially luxurious when it's chilly outside. The Formula 1 race in late August creates a completely different atmosphere, with the town becoming much busier and more expensive for that weekend.