Portal of the Treasures of the Ardennes

The ultimate guide to remarkable places to discover in the Belgian Ardennes

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The Belgian Ardennes: A Jewel of Nature and History

Between deep valleys, dense forests, and picturesque villages, the Belgian Ardennes offers an exceptional variety of landscapes and historical sites. Whether you're a fan of medieval castles, passionate about hiking, or seeking spectacular viewpoints, this region is full of treasures waiting to be discovered.

Our complete guide presents the must-sees of the Ardennes, from the most famous sites to hidden gems.

Bouillon Castle

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Bouillon, Bouillon Castle is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of feudal architecture in Europe. Its origins date back to the 8th century, making it an exceptional witness to European medieval history.

Panoramic view of Bouillon Castle above the Semois

Interior of the medieval fortress of Bouillon Castle

Its history is closely linked to that of Godfrey of Bouillon, the famous leader of the First Crusade, who left an indelible mark on the site before departing for the Holy Land.

Practical information:

Open all year round
Daily falconry show
Guided tours available
On-site restaurant with panoramic view
Partially accessible for people with reduced mobility

View all practical information about Bouillon Castle

Jambon de la Semois Viewpoint

The Jambon de la Semois Viewpoint is one of the most iconic panoramas of the Semois Valley, located between the villages of Membre and Bohan. This spectacular site gets its name from the distinctive shape of the river’s meander, which resembles a ham.

Aerial view of the ham-shaped meander of the Semois

Observation platform at the Jambon de la Semois viewpoint

The view spans a 2 km loop of the Semois River, surrounded by wooded hills that create a striking contrast between the turquoise waters and lush vegetation.

Main features:

Altitude: 220 meters
Large 2 km meander
New observation platform
Accessible via trail #18
Parking nearby
Starting point for hikes

Practical info and activities at the Jambon de la Semois Viewpoint

Han Caves

The Han Caves are a true natural jewel located within the Han-sur-Lesse nature reserve. This exceptional underground network, carved by the Lesse River over millions of years, offers a stunning geological spectacle.

Spectacular interior of the Han Caves

Rock formations inside the Han Caves

The cave tour, lasting approximately 1.5 hours, takes you through immense chambers and impressive stalactite formations, enhanced by subtle lighting.

Don’t miss:

The Dome Room (129 meters high)
The Armory Room and its unique formations
The sound and light show
The adjacent Wildlife Park
The Underground World Museum

Practical info and complete documentation for the Han Caves

Orval Abbey

Notre-Dame d’Orval Abbey is a Cistercian jewel founded in 1070, famous for its brewing and cheese-making traditions. This historic site, classified as a Major Monument of Wallonia, offers an exceptional testimony to medieval monastic architecture.

Panoramic view of Orval Abbey with its medieval ruins

Architectural detail of Orval Abbey

The abbey visit, lasting about 2 hours, immerses you in the fascinating history of the Cistercian monks through its majestic ruins and preserved medicinal gardens.

Don’t miss:

Medieval abbey ruins (12th century)
The monastic brewery museum
The legendary spring of Matilda of Tuscany
The historic pharmacy and medicinal herb gardens
The monastic crafts shop

Practical information:

Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM (April to October)

Admission: Adults €7, Children €4

Guided tours: 11 AM and 3 PM (FR/NL/EN)

Practical info and complete documentation for Orval Abbey

La Roche-en-Ardenne

Nestled in a meander of the Ourthe River, La Roche-en-Ardenne is one of the most beautiful towns in the Belgian Ardennes. Dominated by the ruins of its medieval castle, this picturesque town is a popular tourist destination.

Panoramic view of La Roche-en-Ardenne and its castle

Historic center of La Roche-en-Ardenne

The town offers many activities: miniature train rides, adventure park, museums, and local Ardennes specialties in its many restaurants.

Points of interest:

Feudal castle (11th century)
Battle of the Bulge Museum
Game Park
Wednesday craft market
Aquatic center

Discover La Roche-en-Ardenne and its activities

Art Interpretation Center of Vresse-sur-Semois

The Art Interpretation Center in Vresse-sur-Semois is a unique cultural venue dedicated to regional artistic creation. It houses an exceptional collection of paintings by Ardennes artists, including the renowned Albert Raty, as well as an innovative artistic escape game.

Facade of the Art Interpretation Center in Vresse-sur-Semois

Exhibition room featuring works by Albert Raty

Housed in a restored historic building, the center offers an immersion into Ardennes art through permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as creative workshops for all ages.

Main features:

Permanent Albert Raty collection (30 works)
Escape game "The Mystery of the Stolen Painting"
Weekly creative workshops
Quarterly temporary exhibitions
Thematic guided tours
Local art shop

Practical information:

Address: Rue des Artistes 12, 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois

Opening hours: Tue–Fri 10 AM–5 PM, Sat–Sun 10 AM–6 PM

Admission: €8 adult, €5 child, €20 family

Discover the Art Interpretation Center and its complete documentation

The Tobacco Route in the Ardennes

The Tobacco Route is a 45 km journey through the Ardennes’ tobacco heritage, including the Tobacco Museum, the artisanal Couvert tobacco factory in Corbion, and former plantations and drying barns.

Tobacco Museum in a former drying barn

Workshop at the Couvert tobacco factory

This route immerses you in the little-known history of tobacco cultivation, which shaped the local economy and landscape between 1850 and 1960.

Main stops:

Tobacco Museum (former drying barn)
Artisanal Couvert factory in Corbion
Plantation and drying barn circuit
Panoramic viewpoints
Historical information panels
Hiking and cycling trails

Practical information:

Suggested starting point: Tobacco Museum in Vresse-sur-Semois

Guided tours: Couvert factory at 2 PM (reservation required)

Free access: Plantation circuit and viewpoints

Route map and complete information ardenne-belge/Route-du-Tabac

Frahan Viewpoint

Classified among Wallonia’s major heritage sites, the Frahan Viewpoint offers an exceptional panorama over the Semois loop and the village of Frahan—a true postcard of the Ardennes.

Spectacular view of the Frahan loop

Observation platform at the Frahan viewpoint

This well-maintained site is perfect for a contemplative break after a kayak descent or a hike. The viewpoint is especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

Features:

Major heritage site of Wallonia
Parking available nearby
On-site refreshments (cafeteria)
Viewpoint accessible to all
Starting point for hiking trails

Complete guide: Frahan viewpoint and kayak descents

Activities around the Ardennes

Kayaking on the Semois

Kayak Descent

Discover the Ardennes rivers from the water with routes suitable for all skill levels.

View routes and prices

Electric mountain biking in the Ardennes

Electric MTB

Explore forest trails with an electric mountain bike to enjoy the landscapes effortlessly.

Rent an electric MTB

Riverside camping

Nature Camping

Stay at one of the riverside campsites for a full immersion in nature.

The Semois Valley, a jewel of the Belgian Ardennes, offers a variety of accommodations for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for:

A comfortable hotel with full services
A cozy guesthouse for a family holiday
A nature campsite by the water
A friendly hostel for budget travelers

Our local selection guides you to the best addresses tested and approved by our team.

Our accommodation recommendations

The Semois Valley offers accommodations suited to every budget and preference.

Hotels and aparthotels

For a comfortable stay, choose one of these establishments:

Hôtel du Charme de la Semois – Romantic setting with spa
Le Fief de Liboichant – Rooms with river views
Hôtel-Restaurant Le Central – Renowned local cuisine

Tips: Book 3 months in advance for July–August weekends.

Guesthouses and B&Bs

For a friendly and economical stay:

La Truite à Mouzaive – Ideal for couples (2 people)
Les Castors vacation home – Sleeps 6, enclosed garden
Les Chalets de la Semois – 4-star with private terrace

Good to know: Many guesthouses accept pets upon request.

Youth hostels

The Bouillon Hostel offers a stunning view of the medieval castle.

Single, double, or dormitory rooms
Equipped shared kitchen
From €25/night in dorms

Our family-friendly ★★★ campsite

For a natural riverside stay, discover our Ami Pierre campsite:

50 shaded pitches (tents, caravans, motorhomes)
200m from village shops
Modern sanitary facilities with hot water
Tavern with panoramic terrace
Direct river access for swimming

Plus: Kayak and bike rentals on site.

Partner ardenneresidences - Character cottages in Vresse-sur-Semois

Browse all our cottages around Vresse-sur-Semois:

Activities in the area

Enjoy many activities during your stay:

Our activity suggestions

Kayak descent – 4 routes from 7 to 17 km
Electric MTB hiking – Daily rentals
Fishing – Trout and pike (permit required)
20 marked hiking trails
Visit the castles of Sedan and Bouillon
Taste local craft beers
Ardenneresidences An obvious choice for your holidays!
The Bulletin: discover kayaking and other water activities in the Belgian Ardennes

Discover this magnificent region of Wallonia!

Our ★★★ campsite

per night for 2 people

19 EUR

Book by message

Supplements:
Electricity €3.50
Car €3
Shower €1.50

Contact

Rue de Liboichant 11, 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois
Contact form!
Open all year

Services

Our ★★★ campsite

From

19 €

per night for 2 people

Book by message

Supplements:
Electricity €3.50
Car €3
Shower €1.50