Unveiling the Enchanting South of Belgium: Exploring the Ardennes
1 night in Namur, 2 nights in St Hubert
“Discover the Ardennes: A Haven for Sports, Nature, History, and Tranquility”
Discover the picturesque beauty and rich heritage of Belgium’s southern region on this 4-day tour through Namur, Dinant, St. Hubert, and Orval. Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Namur, exploring its old districts, cathedral, and Citadel offering panoramic views. Enjoy a typical lunch at Chateau de Bioul before venturing to the scenic village of Dinant, known for its riverside splendor and iconic Collegiate church.
Continue your journey south to St. Hubert, where nature and tranquility abound. Indulge in a unique gourmet experience on a horse-drawn cart, savoring fondue amid Ardennes landscapes. Discover the fascinating Bouillon Castle and learn about raptors at an educational exhibition. Conclude your day in St. Hubert, ready for a light hike in the lush Ardennes forest.
Visit the charming Abbey of Orval, experiencing the Trappist brewery’s renowned beer and cheese. Explore the Gothic Abbey amidst serene gardens and ponds, and discover the historic ruins that hold tales of centuries past. Throughout the tour, be enchanted by the beauty of the Ardennes, its rich history, and its culinary delights. With its perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience in the heart of Belgium’s southern region.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 Monday Namur, Chateau de Bioul & Dinant
Meet your driver in Brussels and move to Namur and Dinant
Namur, the capital city of Wallonia has a rich heritage. Your private guide will take you to historical heart to visit the old districts of the city as the maze of pedestrian streets, the squares, the churches, the quays of the Sambre river, and some architectural gems as the Cathedral of Saint-Aubain, the theatre, the Belfry.
After the stroll through alleyways full of charm, you will go by cable car to the icity’s highest point, the Citadel. From the top of this spur, sheltered by one of the largest fortresses in Europe, the view of the essential places of your visit is incomparable.
From Namur, your driver and guide will take you to Chateau de Bioul for a typical lunch
Later, reach the small village of Dinant, on the river Meuse.
The journey of only half an hour, between Chateau de Bioul and Dinant is amazing. You will enjoy the magnificent landscapes of the Upper Meuse Valley scattered with fortresses and castles. Dinant, is a true picture-postcard town, providing a stunning spectacle, especially when you look across the Meuse and lift your gaze towards the Citadel and the onion-domed tower of the Collegiate church, all highlighted by the ribbon of houses and shops running alongside the river. Once arrived there, go to the Citadel, hanging on to a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Dinant. The Citadel was converted into a museum of weapons and history over a century ago. After the visit, the cable car will take you back to the city centre. Enjoy a stroll along the banks of the river Meuse and admire the statues of the saxophones that pay homage to Adolphe Sax, their ingenious inventor. Overnight in Namur.
Day 2 Tuesday Porcheresse /Bouillon / St Hubert
Meet your driver and guide and move further south, near the French boarder
Our first stop will be for lunch at the Chariot a fondue – Ardenne Trait Gourmande
This original concept, a gourmet ride of 2.30 hours on a horse cart, combines taste buds and Ardennes landscapes …. You can choose between a meat fondue, a cheese fondue, or a combo. All ingredients are from local producers or homemade! The principle is simple : you are your own chef, prepare your fondue, and enjoy it during the ride. An original way to combine the pleasure of a meal with the joy of eating in the open air and at the rhythm of the horses’ pace. On your way, you will find forests, rivers, meadows and beautiful villages.
After lunch, your driver will take you to Bouillon, situated on the banks of the Semois. The small city will delight traveler who love history and nature.
During 2 hours, your private guide will introduce you to the rich past of the fortified castle standing on three rocky peaks overlooking the Semois and the city. With the maze of its corridors and its immense vaulted rooms, it can be considered the oldest vestige of feudalism in Belgium and one of the most remarkable fortresses in Europe.
Besides the visit of the castle, there is an educational exhibition on hunting with raptors, you can enjoy at specific times an interactive show with these birds of prey. The falconer will introduce you to the life and habits of owls, eagles, hawks, vultures and, of course, falcons.
Transfer back to your hotel. Dinner and overnight in St Hubert.
Day 3 Wednesday St Hubert Light Hiking & Orval, Trappist Brewery
A visit to St. Hubert, Belgium, takes you to a charming and picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Ardennes region. Known for its deep-rooted connection to nature and rich history, St. Hubert offers a delightful escape for travelers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ardennes.
St. Hubert is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and a perfect path for a light hiking in the forest, where lush greenery and wildlife abound.
A short drive from St. Hubert will lead you to the charming Abbey of Orval, an extraordinary place with a fascinating history. Founded in the 12th century, the Orval Abbey has endured centuries of turbulent times and has been rebuilt multiple times. Today, the Abbey stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, surrounded by serene gardens and reflecting ponds.
Orval is renowned for its world-famous Trappist beer and cheese, produced by the monks within the Abbey’s walls. A visit to the brewery offers an insight into the traditional brewing methods, and you can indulge in the rich flavors of the authentic Orval beer.
While at Orval, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque ruins of the old Orval Abbey, a poignant reminder of the past. Overnight in St Hubert.
Day 4 Departure
After breakfast transfer to Brussels or Luxembourg.
End of our services.