Belgian Ardennes road trips

Careful planning is essential for a road trip through the Belgian Ardennes, creating a balance between driving pleasure, nature and culture. The region offers a high density of winding roads, historic sites and rustic villages, which can be explored effectively with the right preparation. This text explains how to put routes together and which sights are worth visiting.

A week in the Ardennes: a suggested route

A one-week road trip gives you enough time to explore different parts of the Ardennes without rushing. A good starting point is Liège, a city with a history dating back to the Middle Ages that gives direct access to the northern valleys. From Liège you can make a logical loop that passes well-known locations in the region.

A possible seven-day route could look like this:

• Day 1–2: High Fens and the East Cantons. The journey can start near Spa, with an exploration of the High Fens–Eifel nature park. The roads here are relatively quiet and lead through a raised bog area characterised by open landscapes and peat pools. It is possible to take a walk along the wooden boardwalks, and you can stay overnight near Malmedy or Stavelot, where the Spa-Francorchamps circuit can also be visited.
• Day 3–4: The Ourthe valley. The route heads south towards La Roche-en-Ardenne, a small town with many cafés and shops along the River Ourthe. You can visit the feudal castle ruins and the wildlife park here. The road along the Ourthe heading south offers views of the river and leads to Durbuy, known as the smallest town in the world. In this area there are campsites and opportunities for kayaking.
• Day 5–6: The Semois valley and Bouillon. The route continues westwards and follows the course of the Semois. This river winds its way through a forested landscape with high viewpoints. The town of Bouillon, with its large castle that once belonged to Godfrey of Bouillon, is a recommended stop. The routes here are considered highly scenic.
• Day 7: Along the Meuse via Dinant and Namur. The road trip can be rounded off with a drive along the Meuse. The town of Dinant is wedged between the river and steep rock faces, with a citadel that can be visited. The route then continues north towards Namur, where the cable car to the citadel runs and offers an overview of the region, after which the trip can be concluded.

Popular driving routes with winding sections

For those who enjoy winding roads, the Ardennes offer many options. Well-known sections with hairpin bends are mainly found on the N-roads that follow the river valleys, not on the main roads. The roads are often narrow and twist along with the landscape, making the driving experience intense. Routes along the Ourthe, the Semois and the Lesse are known for their abundance of bends.

Specific sections that are mentioned for their bends and views include the roads around La Roche-en-Ardenne and the descents to the banks of the Semois near Bouillon. For a detailed route, GPX tracks are available via tourist information services. These routes often combine winding roads with cultural stops and panoramic viewpoints, such as the Schieferstraße, which leads further into the countryside.

Key stops and sights

A road trip is about more than just driving. The Ardennes have various locations that are worth a visit. It is advisable to plan enough time each day for one or two stops. Examples include:

• Nature and geology: The Caves of Han-sur-Lesse offer a look underground, including a trip on a historic tram. An alternative is the Caves of Remouchamps, where part of the tour is by boat.
• Historic towns and villages: In addition to larger towns such as Dinant and Namur, it is mainly the small villages that define the atmosphere of the Ardennes. Durbuy has medieval streets and La Roche-en-Ardenne has terraces by the water.
• Castles and abbeys: Bouillon Castle is a well-preserved fortress and offers views over the valley. For a culinary stop, Orval Abbey is an excellent option. The well-known Trappist beer is brewed here, and cheese is produced that can be bought on site.

Practical planning: overnight stays and preparation

Good preparation contributes to a relaxed trip. A suitable period to visit the Ardennes is from May through to October, when the weather is generally more stable and nature is in bloom. The roads are generally of good quality, but it is wise to take into account narrow sections and blind bends.

There is a wide range of accommodation options. Around popular destinations such as La Roche and Bouillon there is a high density of campsites, ranging from basic sites to larger family campsites. There are also hotels, B&Bs and holiday homes available. It is advisable, especially in high season, to book your accommodation in advance.

A daily driving distance of 200 to 300 kilometres is recommended. This allows enough time to drive at a relaxed pace, stop for photos, go for a walk or visit a sight. The emphasis is on the experience, not the number of kilometres covered.

The Belgian Ardennes offer many possibilities for independent travellers. On the Traveler Tips website you will find extensive guides on planning road trips, choosing the right equipment and inspiration for other destinations in Europe. More information and planning support for your next trip is available there.

Frequently asked questions