1Ninglinspo Valley
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6 km
Time: 2-3 hours
“The Ninglinspo is probably the most known one, features a nice path following a little stream up a river past a ton of natural pools and very small waterfalls.”
tabiji verdict: The most popular and enchanting walk in the Ardennes. It's a magical trail that follows the Ninglinspo mountain river, requiring you to cross charming wooden bridges and scramble over rocks. It's famous for a reason, so it can get busy, especially on weekends. Go early to enjoy the peace.
2Hautes Fagnes (High Fens)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Varies (multiple trails)
Time: 1-5 hours
“High fens natural reserve is pretty nice to visit but beware there might be a lot of people.”
tabiji verdict: A unique, otherworldly landscape of high moorlands, peat bogs, and misty forests. The wooden boardwalks make it accessible and protect the fragile ecosystem. The area around Signal de Botrange, Belgium's highest point, offers stunning panoramic views. A must-do for its distinctive atmosphere.
3Vallée de la Hoëgne
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8 km
Time: 3-4 hours
“Hoëgne has another quite known walk, also following a stream with a bunch of bridges and stuff, quite nice!”
tabiji verdict: Similar to Ninglinspo but often considered its wilder, less-crowded cousin. The trail follows the Hoëgne river, a torrent that has carved a deep valley into the rock. Expect beautiful waterfalls, cascades, and a series of picturesque bridges. A truly classic Ardennes hike.
4Rochehaut and the Semois Valley
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 4 km (Les Echelles hike)
Time: 2-3 hours
“This one is not too challenging and takes you passed the best panorama in Belgium (Panorama de Frahan) The hike itself is just one of many hills in the Ardennes but Rochehaut offers such a stunning, green view.”
tabiji verdict: Home to what's often called the most beautiful viewpoint in Belgium, looking down on the village of Frahan nestled in a meander of the Semois river. For the adventurous, the "Ladder Walk" (Promenade des Echelles) is a thrilling trail involving actual ladders to navigate the steep cliffs.
5Bouillon Castle Trails
Difficulty: Varies
Distance: Varies
Time: 1-4 hours
“There's also Bouillon and La-Roche-en-Ardenne which both have great hikes around there in very nice Ardennes scenery.”
tabiji verdict: The area around the magnificent medieval castle of Bouillon is crisscrossed with hiking trails. You can hike up to the "Tombeau du Géant" (Giant's Tomb), another stunning viewpoint over the Semois, or explore the dense forests surrounding the historic town.
