Furfooz Park, between nature and history

The Lesse is a creative river… It has playfully dug caves, cavities and pits over time. Its many creations include the Furfooz site. This heritage is both geological and archaeological because humankind has made its home there for millennia.

Although the location was very popular among people from 14,000 BCE, it’s above all the thermal baths dating from the Roman era that attract the curiosity of history buffs. Rebuilt in the 1950s, these thermal baths are a perfect example of the ‘hypocaust’ system that can be considered as a central heating system before its time. The hot air came from a wood fire, and was sent under the building through a multitude of brick conduits. This resulted in hot water baths for a real moment of relaxation. Note that although these thermal baths still work perfectly, their water supply is reserved for certain events. This doesn’t prevent visiting for a fascinating moment of learning.

On the trail of the secret Lesse

Beyond the thermal baths and ruins of the Roman fortress, the walk flits between rocks, limestone and caves - Trou du Frontal or ‘Smoking Hole’... which smokes on very cold days - lawns, the banks of the Lesse, before it disappears underground for a stretch: the Trou des Nutons. Or the Puits des Vaux, where the Lesse hides in the depths and an underground lake at least 40 metres deep lies far from the daylight. You’ve guessed it: in Furfooz Park, the terrain rises and falls, giving you splendid views, like the one from the Trou du Grand Duc. Perhaps you'll admire the flight of the peregrine falcon. And if you feel like quenching your thirst, at ‘La Flobette’ you can taste the region’s craft beers.

Copyright pictures: Ardennes-étape / Visit Wallonia