Three very different geographic areas, all within the same national park – that’s the best way to describe the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park.

Firstly, the park includes the high moorland area of the Fens, with its wet soil and numerous marshes. Next, we have the Calestienne, a relatively dry limestone massif with remarkable southern flora and fauna. The third region is also the best known: the Ardennes forest region.

The three areas form one special ensemble, wherein nature enthusiasts can enjoy a wide variety of fauna and flora.

As the name suggests, the valleys located between the Sambre and the Meuse form the backbone of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park. Its territory covers 22,129 hectares, with the main municipalities being Couvin, Viroinval, Chimay, Momignies, and Froidchapelle.

The beautiful Eau d’Heure lakes are a major tourist attraction for the national park. It’s the ideal place to participate in all kinds of water sports, cycling, hiking, and simply enjoying the lush green nature. An ideal way to discover the limestone massif is to descend into the Neptune Caves. They’ll transport you several billion years back in time!

In short, this national park is the ideal destination for nature and geology enthusiasts, with its many outdoor leisure activities suitable for the whole family.

©photos :Visit Wallonia, Ardennes-étape

As its name suggests, the Semois Valley National Park covers the forests, prairies, and valleys along the Semois River in the southern Ardennes.

Covering an area of 28,904 hectares, the Semois Valley National Park comprises the municipalities of Vresse sur Semois, Bouillon, Paliseul, Bertrix, Florenville, Herbeumont, Chiny, and Tintigny. Its territory is made up of 86% forest and boasts no less than 690 km of waterways.

Of course, nature is the main attraction in this magnificent region, packed full of unforgettable walks and bike rides. The unique view of the Giant’s Tomb, around which the Semois River majestically winds, is a prime destination. Equally legendary is the view over Frahan, accessible via a beautiful walk from the picturesque village of Rochehaut.

Be sure to visit some of valley’s historical heritage sites, including the impressive castles of Herbeumont and Bouillon. Make sure you visit some of the most beautiful villages in all of the Ardennes, such as Chassepierre, where nature, theatre, and magic are wonderfully intertwined along the Semois River.

The Semois Valley National Park offers wonderful opportunities to discover both nature and heritage sites, along with a host of sporting activities for the whole family to enjoy. A natural paradise that will leave you wanting more!

©pictures :Visit Wallonia, Ardennes-étape

60 ha in the Ardennes Valley has been totally preserved in the heart of the village of Amblève, in the Liège Province. It’s a true natural refuge for meadow birds, and above all a space where unparalleled biodiversity develops.

The public is little aware that the Emmels reserve is, however, an incredible site of crucial importance in terms of preserving fauna and flora. Its terrain forms a natural sponge that slows rising water and absorbs overflows. This feature is very useful to prevent floods upstream. The Netherlands have got it right by financially supporting the reserve to prevent rising water levels in their country. This is the importance of the site and its features. And that’s not all, because these vast open spaces abound with typical flora at threat which has found a refuge here.

Exceptional biodiversity

In spring, carpets of flowers even turn the valley pink. Arnica, bistort or cowslip have found fertile ground in these meadows to blossom abundantly… Just like the meadow birds, who take advantage to nest on the ground, well hidden in the grass. And of course, you can’t miss them: highland cows take advantage of the flourishing vegetation to graze peacefully. This incredible biodiversity is the wealth of this preserved location, delighting nature lovers. To enjoy it without disturbing its inhabitants, follow the hiking and cycling trails that extend along both sides of the cycling trail. As a bonus, information boards tell you about the fauna and flora.

Copyright pictures: Natagora

Do you feel like escaping to the fresh air of the countryside? Head towards Mirwart, near Saint-Hubert: its provincial domain is a haven of nature and discovery with 35 ponds, a superb forest, 2 rivers, a beehive and a host of guided walks.

Mirwart is one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia. The location is a great destination where you can explore the Domain nestled there and see phenomenal fauna and flora. The domain extends over 1,350 ha and is a real gem if you love unspoilt nature. Walking through this incredible green setting, which has no entrance fee, you’ll doubtless come across a few vestiges of the past that bear witness to its historical heritage (old bridges, 16th-century blast furnace, 19th-century ice house now the refuge of hibernating bats, etc.).

Luscious nature and vestiges of the past

What can you see and do here? A whole host of things! Walking, of course. Your footsteps will take you along a trail of game, rare tree species and many ponds hidden at the heart of the magnificent forest. They are all home to farms of brown trout, a species intended to stock local rivers. An educational beehive also enables you to discover the world of bees (you can also buy the honey it produces). Looking for more? Enjoy the events, educational activities or themed guided walks (booking only). And then, what’s better than to enjoy a countryside picnic in one of the many picnic areas provided? This relaxing day will delight both kids and grown-ups!

Copyright pictures: Visit Wallonia / Visit Ardenne

Imagine: a beautiful beach along the River Ourthe where you can enjoy the sunshine with friends or family... Welcome to Maboge beach, a perfect place to relax and enjoy yourself for free, close to La Roche-en-Ardenne.

Are you looking for a place to have fun with children? There’s nowhere quite like the beach! Head for the beach at Maboge, a grassy bank on the River Ourthe. In this area young and old alike can play in the shallow water in complete safety. Smart tip: before you take the plunge, check the interactive map of bathing areas in Wallonia to make sure you can swim that day. Alternatively, a kayaking trip is always a good idea and you can set off down the river from just a stone's throw away. Enough to tempt you?

Amenities on offer

Everything has been thought through to help you have a good time. Have a bite to eat in the cafeteria or sit outside on one of the benches or picnic tables. Space to enjoy lunch or a snack together. In high season, toilets and showers are also available for maximum comfort. A perfect day out just a few minutes from the famous town of La Roche-en-Ardenne.

Copyright pictures: Visit Wallonia