2017 Destination The Valley Country by Fédération du Tourisme de la Province de Namur asbl

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY 2017

RIVERS

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY

ARDENNES

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES •

Condroz-Famenne Tourist Information Centre Place Monseu, 23 – 5590 Ciney 086 40 19 22 www.valleesdessaveurs.be

•

Sambre-Orneau Tourist Information Centre Rue Sigebert, 3 – 5030 Gembloux 081 62 69 66 www.sambre-orneau.be

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Merger of the Pays de Namur Tourist Information Centre with the Dinant and Haute-Meuse Tourist Information Centre (Andenne, Anhée, Assesse, Dinant, Eghezée, Fernelmont, Fosses-la-Ville, Hastière, La Bruyère, Mettet, Namur, Onhaye, Profondeville and Yvoir)*

Place de la Station – 5000 Namur 081 24 64 49 www.paysdenamur.be

Avenue Colonel Cadoux, 8 – 5500 Dinant 082 22 28 70 www.dinant-tourisme.com

* The new names still have to be established during 2017

•

Merger of the Val de Lesse Tourist Information Centre (Beauraing, Houyet, Rochefort) with the municipalities of Durbuy, Hotton, Marche-en-Famenne and Nassogne (Belgian province of Luxembourg)* Rue de Behogne, 5 – 5580 Rochefort 084 34 51 72 – www.valdelesse.be

Merger of the Ardennes Namuroise Tourist Information Centre (Bièvre, Gedinne, Vresse-sur-Semois) with the municipalities of Bertrix, Bouillon, Daverdisse, Herbeumont and Paliseul (Belgian province of Luxembourg)* 061 29 28 27 www.ardenne-namuroise.be

•

Merger of the Vallées des Eaux Vives Tourist Information Centre (Cerfontaine, Couvin, Doische, Florennes, Philippeville, Viroinval, Walcourt) with the municipalities of Anderlues, Beaumont, Chimay, Erquelines, Fontaine-L’Evêque, Froidchapelle, Ham‑sur‑Heure/ Nalinnes, Lobbes, Merbes‑le‑Château, Momignies, Sivry-Rance and Thuin (Province of Hainaut)* Route de la Plate Taille, 99 6440 Boussu-lez-Walcourt 071 23 95 97 – www.valleesdeseauxvives.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

EDITORIAL

Destination 2017 is a publication by the Namur Provincial Tourism Federation (FTPN) Avenue Reine Astrid 22 Bte2 B-5000 Namur +32 (0)81 77 67 57 tourisme@ftpn.be www.paysdesvallees.be www.visitardenne.com www.namurcongres.be

Official publisher Francis Malacord, Director FTPN

French version written by Patrick Bartholomé

Lay-out and page make-up Cible Parc artisanal de Blegny 11 B-4671 Barchon +32 (0)4 220 96 50 www.cible.be Cover © DOC ftpn

When it comes to quality of life, and, in particular, the quality of its food, Wallonia’s reputation could not be better. Our European neighbours are not wrong: many of them appreciate our traditional or gourmet cuisine, our local products and our restaurants which, whether they are simple or well-known, always provide good food and a warm welcome. For some of them, it is their main reason for visiting us. They then discover the wonderful sights and opportunities for keeping fit and enriching their experiences in contact with nature and history. It is an accepted fact that the pleasures of food and drink form part of our heritage, just like our landscapes and old buildings. They are a sign of a happy, relaxed way of life. And, deep down, is that not what all holidaymakers and tourists are looking for? Taking a short break from their everyday lives; discovering “something different”; doing something pleasant, interesting or relaxing with no pressure? In this respect, the Valley Country offers infinite opportunities, starting with the original “RAVeL des barbecues”. This offers 11 dates for gourmet cycle rides on the Independent Slow Route Network (RAVeL), visiting quality restaurants at reasonable prices. Picnic walks for ramblers and their families offer routes through superb landscapes that include rendezvous points with food trucks or places to have a snack. High-level sportspeople will also be able to express their talent on the now famous Saint-Jacques Trail, a sporting and commemorative event. During the race, food is a technical consideration but afterwards no comfort is off limits. This year we absolutely accept, or rather proudly promote, the reputation we have earned with visitors as people who know how to live well. This year’s theme is “Gourmet Wallonia”, a slogan in the form of a promise which we are sure will leave no-one disappointed. Because, above all, behind the reputation are the thousands of professionals, artisans, gourmets and producers who have built it. These are people who love their job and who serve you, whether you are visiting for a day, a week or longer… Whenever visitors come to take part in one of the countless leisure activities offered in this brochure, they are also sure to enjoy themselves when it is time to eat. That leaves only one problem: making a choice… Françis Malacord, Director and Jean-Marc Van Espen, Provincial Deputy and Chairman

Printer Imprimerie Provinciale de Namur

Photographic credit FTPN, Laëtis, Guy Focant SPW, WBT

3 3

2017

If you tour or stay in the province of Namur you are bound to come up against the landscape – all the landscapes created by the interaction of water, stone, forests and man. It also means going back in time through the traces left in an area that has always been inhabited and transformed; a place of human memory where the land has been shaped, carved and cut. There are surprises everywhere you go. Its character and atmosphere changes and it speaks to our sensitivity in other languages.

Three main areas group territories with common characteristics, although the boundaries are sometimes suggested rather than being precisely marked: • The RIVERS area, with the Meuse running through the middle of it. Its strengths are heritage, culture, cuisine, river tourism and beautiful landscapes... • The LAKES area: this magnificent region centred on the Bambois and Eau d’Heure lakes offers major attractions based on relaxation, nature, open-air sports and recreation. • The ARDENNES is part of a much larger region, going beyond the country’s borders. This region with its vast, deep landscapes offers an authentic experience: wild, sometimes mysterious areas for re-engaging with solitude.

Towns on a human scale fit

Namur

Andenne

Gembloux

Couvin

WHERE THE WATERS MEET

A CERAMICS CENTRE

into all these landscapes and have acquired very different characters over the course of a long history Dinant

NESTLED UNDER ITS ROCK

Philippeville

FOUNDED BY ROYAL WILL

ON THE PROSPEROUS PLAIN

Walcourt

LOVED BY VERLAINE

THE GREEN TOWN, ON ITS LIMESTONE ROCKS

Rochefort

THE LAUGHING TOWN

destinationâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;THE VALLEY COUNTRY

CONTENTS EDITORIAL 3 OUR TOWNS

CONTENTS 5 GOURMET WALLONIA

RIVERS

Architectural and natural heritage

Museums and tourist sites

Landscapes and villages

Gardens and animal parks

Sporting activities

Local products and cuisine

Accommodation

Events 20 LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY

Architectural and natural heritage

Museums and tourist sites

Landscapes and villages

Gardens and animal parks

Sporting activities

Local products and cuisine

Accommodation

Events 32 ARDENNES 34

Architectural and natural heritage

Museums and tourist sites

Landscapes and villages

Gardens and animal parks

Sporting activities

Local products and cuisine

Accommodation

Events 44

2017

THEME YEAR

“GOURMET WALLONIA”

THE VALLEY COUNTRY FOCUSES ON THE PLEASURES OF THE TABLE IN ITS 2017 PROGRAMME… “Routes and good food in the Valley Country” Discover the 21 best routes in the province, brought together in a single brochure: 10 cycle tours, one for mountain bikes, 10 walks and 2 multi-day packages on the roads to Santiago de Compostela.

New season for the “RAVeL des Barbecues” Throughout the summer of 2016, 11 “RAVeL des BBQ” events have been organised in the province of Namur. These gourmet cycling tours offer stops at different restaurants which welcome cyclists and help them discover local products cooked on the barbecue. Look out for information from the Namur Provincial Tourism Federation because the “RAVeL des BBQ” has been revamped in 2017, with lots of new dates between June and September. There is also a new feature: the possibility of accommodation.

www.ravelbbq.be

Picnic gourmet tours: a NEW FEATURE! From June to September, picnics will be organised to liven up walks and even cycling and horseriding tours. After all that effort, a bit of comfort! Products made by well-known and skilled local producers, entertainment of all kinds, and warm, convivial times are in prospect. Keep your eyes open, The Tourism Federation will soon be offering you its “Picnic Diary”.

All the flavours of the Beer Route between France and Belgium Beer is the image of the land and the distinctive character of the Ardennes, somewhere between sweet and bitter. The art of brewing is all about precision and know-how. Craft breweries are perpetuating a tradition running deep in the rocks of the Ardennes for centuries. While this tradition has lasted in Belgium, in France, the legions of 19th-century breweries all but disappeared... They are now being revived in the 21st century after young brewers learned of the deeds of their ancestors in the towns and villages of the Ardennes, while, at the gateways to the region in Chimay, Rochefort and Orval, monks have been brewing their golden beverages since the dawn of time. These three Trappist beers offer a real heritage of taste found nowhere else in the world! www.visitardenne.com/all-access 6

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

The Province of Namur is generous with its gourmet products, making the reputation of the Walloon region in the art of cultivating the pleasures of life. There are tremendous numbers of quality producers. An entire epicurean lifetime would not be enough to discover all of them. Here we highlight only those offering the most famous products from the province. We will leave it to you to discover all the others…

www.paysdesvallees.be

Wépion strawberries

Ardennes label salted meat products

A traditional crop around Wépion since the beginning of the 20th C., the strawberry has become a real institution since the 1960s. Farming is organised around quality specifications. The fresh fruits are sold at an “against the clock” auction, a procedure unique in Wallonia. Products derived from them, such as liqueur, juice and jams, add to the attraction of a product as keenly awaited every year as Beaujolais nouveau…

Genuine Ardennes hams and sausages bear a quality label. Some also bear the European “Protected Geographical Indication” mark. Local SMEs and artisans make sure they keep up the local and family traditions using modern methods while avoiding gimmicks and respecting the art of salting and the taste inherited from their ancestors.

Pont d’Amour salted meat products

Rue de la 1re Armée Américaine, 165 5100 Wépion +32 81 46 11 28 www.crieeauxfraises.be

Rue Pont d'Amour 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 48 92 www.salaisonsdupontdamour.be

Antoine-Muller butchers

Snails

Méan cheeses

The peaceful slowness of the shell-dwelling animal has become the symbol of the inhabitants of the Belle Province. “Namurois, as slow as the Meuse where the lazy barges pass…” sings the Walloon poet Julos Beaucarne. At Warnant, Bierwart and Beuzet, producers work hard to tame the horned beast and bring it quietly on to our plates...

The Fermière de Méan cooperative began in 1986, keen to develop quality farm products. It makes about 15 farm cheeses with raw cow’s and goat’s milk and sells organic agricultural products. A “Cheese Route” organised every year in September at Maffe allows you to discover these producers. www.routedufromage.be.

Warnant Snail Farm +32 86 61 23 52 www.escargotiere.be

Route de Durbuy, 14 5374 Maffe +32 86 32 23 43 www.valleesdessaveurs.be/fr/fermierede-mean-fromagerie-artisanale-a-maffehavelange.html?IDC=1744&IDD=754975707

Rue de l'Église, 44 5550 Bohan-sur-Semois +32 61 50 05 55 www.boucherie-antoine.be

Dinant couques

Snails from the Vieux Tilleul farm

Several producers continue to manufacture this biscuit made of honey and flour and shaped in different wooden moulds: animals, characters, floral motifs, etc. Cooking caramelises the honey, which makes the biscuits very hard and means they can be kept almost indefinitely. This recipe probably comes from an old kind of biscuit created by barge captains for use on board.

+32 81 83 35 73 www.escargots.info

www.dinant.be/patrimoine/specialites/lacouque-de-dinant

L’Ourchet Snails +32 81 56 99 54 www.accueilchampetre.be/fr/content/fr/ escargot-de-lourchet-7557

2017

RIVERS [architectural and natural heritage]

FIRM FAVOURITES

NOT TO BE MISSED

Namur Citadel

Pont d'Arcole Caves in Hastière

While striding along its open-air circuits and kilometres of underground galleries, you really gain an understanding of the strategic role Namur fortress has played throughout history. Today it is an emblematic site in the province of Namur. Initially the stronghold of four dynasties of counts, it was then besieged several times by Don Juan of Austria, the Belgian revolutionaries and even Louis XIV. Route Merveilleuse, 64 5000 Namur +32 81 65 45 00 www.citadelle.namur.be

These caves, discovered in 1924, can be visited all year round and, unusually for caves, they are partly accessible to people with reduced mobility. These natural cavities contain magnificent geological formations created by the waters of the Féron. Their name refers to a wooden bridge which became famous during Napoleon Bonaparte’s Italian campaign.

Dinant Citadel and cable car Now a museum of weapons and history, Dinant fortress, accessible by cable car or by climbing 408 steps, offers an amazing view of the town and the river running around it. Inside the building, where you can still visit the kitchens and dungeons, you can relive the past of Dinant, from the sack of the town by Charles the Bold to the massacre of 674 civilians in 1914, including the town fortifications built by Vauban.

Route d’Inzemont, 2

5540 Hastière +32 82 22 47 85 www.dinant-tourisme.com

Feudal castle of Corroy-le-Château

Place Reine Astrid, 35 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 36 70 www.citadellededinant.be

Maredsous Abbey and Saint-Joseph reception centre in Denée (Anhée) A place of tradition and spirituality, Maredsous Abbey opens its doors to interested visitors and gourmets throughout the year. After a walk in the Molignée valley or a guided tour of the abbey, you must go and discover the flavours of Maredsous’ beers and cheeses at the Saint-Joseph Reception centre.

A guided tour of this magnificent and perfectly preserved medieval fortress will delight lovers of castle life, with its NeoGothic great hall, the 13th-century Chapel of Notre-Dame and its rooms lined with paintings.

Rue de Maredsous, 11 5537 Denée +32 82 69 82 84 http://tourisme.maredsous.be

Rue du Château de Corroy, 4 5032 Corroy-le-Château +32 81 62 69 60 www.corroy-le-chateau.com

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

OTHER SIGHTS Collegiate church of Sainte-Begge in Andenne

ago (1217), its particular features include an altarpiece of the True Cross dating from the 16th C.

Collegiate church of Notre-Dame in Dinant

Place du Baillage, 5500 Bouvignes +32 82 22 33 25 www.paroissedebouvignes.be

Ruins of Crèvecoeur in Bouvignes (Dinant)

Finished in 1771, this Neo-Classical collegiate church was built with the stones of various churches in very poor condition that belonged to a monastery founded by Saint Begge. The works were directed by the famous architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez. This is one of the monuments that best represents the Gothic architecture of the 13th C. in the old Principality of Liège. It was built on the ruins of the previous church, destroyed by a rock fall. Worth seeing: the 11th C. baptismal fonts.

Place du Chapitre, 19 5300 Andenne +32 85 84 96 40 www.andenne.be

Church of Saint-Firmin in Bonneville (Andenne)

Place Reine Astrid, 1 5500 Dinant +32 082 22 28 70 www.dinant.be/patrimoine/sites/ collegiale

Built at the beginning of the 12th C. to protect Bouvignes, the old medieval fortress of Crèvecoeur was partially destroyed in a siege by Henry II of France in 1554. These remains continue to dominate the village from a rock covered with greenery.

Sanctuary of Foy-Notre-Dame (Dinant)

Ruins of Crèvecoeur Rue Cardinal Mercier 5500 Bouvignes +32 82 22 36 16 www.mpmm.be

Its patron saint is invoked to cure rheumatism and pins and needles. The church partly dates from the 11th C. Its squat tower had a defensive purpose and arrow slits can still be seen in its thick walls.

La Merveilleuse Cave in Dinant

Rue du Centre, 123 5300 Bonneville www.openchurches.be

The construction of this church was linked to the discovery by a woodcutter in 1609 of a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary in the hollow of a tree. The place became a pilgrimage site. Worth seeing: the remarkable coffered ceiling consisting of 145 painted panels.

Church of Saint-Lambert in Bouvignes (Dinant)

Rue des Claviats, 4 5504 Foy-Notre-Dame + 32 82 22 23 35 www.openchurches.be

Among the loveliest caves in Belgium, La Merveilleuse is full of fine stalactites and lives up to its name, which means The Wonderful. Its great hall features waterfalls of calcite resembling rivers of white wax. A Romanesque church flanked by an imposing square tower, whose great size (55 m) demonstrates the former prosperity of Bouvignes. Consecrated exactly 800 years

Route de Philippeville, 142 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 22 10 www.dinant-tourisme.com

2017

RIVERS [architectural and natural heritage]

Ruins of Montaigle in Falaën (Onhaye)

The ruins of Montaigle Castle, perched on a mighty rock surrounded by greenery, evoke a legendary Middle Ages. At the end of the 13th C. the castle was granted to Guy de Namur, who led the revolt of the Battle of the Golden Spurs against the French king Philip the Fair. Rue du Marteau, 10 • 5522 Falaën +32 82 69 95 85 • www.montaigle.be

Maredret Convent in Denée (Anhée)

Museum area in Scladina Cave in Sclayn (Andenne)

In this Neo-Gothic convent founded in 1893, the community of Benedictine nuns invites you to visit the convent church and offers access to two permanent exhibitions. You can also discover their skill at various crafts, particularly illuminated manuscripts and fruit products. Rue des Laidsmonts, 9 • 5537 Denée +32 82 21 31 80 • http://abbaye-maredret.be

Church of Saint-Loup in Namur

Romanesque abbey in Hastière

Every first Sunday of the month, visitors who love prehistory are invited to watch archaeologists at work on this still active excavation site, ask the diggers questions and see finds brought to light. Rue Fond des Vaux, 339d • 5300 Sclayn +32 81 58 29 58 • www.scladina.be

Spy Man cave in Jemeppe-sur-Sambre

Built in about 1035 by Irish monks, the abbey church of Hastière and its massive tower stand in beautiful surroundings along the Meuse. Worth seeing: the very old stalls and wall paintings (13th C.) and the crypt decorated with 12th C. graffiti. Rue Marcel Lespagne, 70 5541 Hastière-par-delà +32 82 64 46 22 www.patrimoinehastiere.be

Completed in 1654, this church was first consecrated to Saint Ignatius. It was built in the Baroque style by the Jesuit architect Pieter Huyssens and expresses the principles of the 16th C. Catholic CounterReformation begun at the Council of Trent. Rue du Collège, 17 5000 Namur +32 81 24 64 44 www.eglise-saint-loup.be

Medieval ruins of Poilvache in Yvoir

Freÿr Castle in Hastière

This cave on the banks of the Orneau is famous above all because here, in 1886, amid animal bone remains and napped flint, two Belgian researchers discovered two skeletons confirming the existence of Neanderthal man. Rue du Pajot • 5190 Jemeppe-sur-Sambre +32 81 74 53 28 • www.hommedespy.be

Once the summer residence of the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin, this imposing Renaissancestyle house on the banks of the Meuse is decorated with splendid paintings and fine period furniture. It bears the traces of stays by royal guests, such as Louis XIV.

Amid the ruins of the walls and towers of Poilvache there is an unbeatable view over the valley. Inside, a huge cathedral formed by great Austrian pines stands where the medieval town used to be. Peace and quiet are guaranteed.

Freyr 12, • 5540 Hastière +32 82 22 22 00 • www.freyr.be

Chemin de Poilvache, 69 • 5530 Houx +32 82 61 36 82 • http://poilvache.com 10

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[museums and tourist sites]

NOT TO BE MISSED Queen Fabiola Amusement Park in Namur

This park opens its doors to children aged between two-and-a-half and 12 between October and April. It is a place for having fun in play areas intended for youngsters aged under five and between 6 and 12. Swings and slides and seesaws as well as mini-golf, bouncy castles, trampolines, table tennis, electric cars and a climbing circuit: ideal for birthday parties! Rond-Point Michel Thonar, 1 • 5000 Namur +32 81 73 84 13 • www.parf.be

FIRM FAVOURITES

OTHER SIGHTS

Strawberry Museum in Wépion (Namur)

Ceramics Museum in Andenne

A charming museum in the old gardener’s house of a Meuse villa tells the story of the town and its folklore and describes the main stages of its strawberry-growing tradition. Wépion’s strawberries are famous and keenly awaited every year, which means you cannot possibly leave without tasting them in the form of jam, liqueur or even beer!

For a long time, Andenne was associated with the work of the ceramics industry and this museum allows you to discover its styles and techniques, from medieval baked clay to industrial ceramics. You can also discover the particular features of its clay, known as derle.

Chaussée de Dinant, 1037 • 5100 Wépion +32 81 46 20 07 • www.museedelafraise.eu

NEW! The Cheese Museum, Maredsous Abbey in Denée (Anhée)

Rue Charles Lapierre, 29 • 5300 Andenne +32 85 84 41 81 • www.ceramandenne.be

Treasury and museum of the collegiate church of Sainte‑Begge in Andenne

Molignée railbikes in Falaën (Onhaye)

In the annexes to this Neo-Classical collegiate church, built in the 17th C., the Treasury and Museum display items including the Renaissance shrine of Saint Begge, religious porcelain from Andenne, pieces in gold and silver, textiles and manuscripts. Place du Chapitre, 19 • 5300 Andenne +32 85 84 96 40 • www.andenne.be

Furfooz Park and Nature Reserve (Dinant)

On your own or with your family, try out a railbike and pedal at your own pace as you slide along a railway through the picturesque Molignée valley. A relaxed ride on a 6 km, 8 km or 14 km route starting from Warnant or Falaën and passing through Maredsous. Rue de la Gare, 82 5522 Falaën +32 82 69 90 79 www.draisine.be

Maredsous is one of the rare places where cheese is still matured in the Abbey cellars, where a specific bacterium grows, giving the product its flavour. In the new small museum we learn where the curd comes from to form the basis for cheesemaking, and how it is transformed. Rue de Maredsous, 11 • 5537 Denée +32 82 69 82 84 http://tourisme.maredsous.be

Go for a 4-km family walk in the Lesse valley to discover the region’s flora and fauna and also its archaeological and geological heritage: Roman baths, a hilltop fort, caves and caverns. A date with nature. Rue du Camp Romain • 5500 Furfooz +32 82 22 34 77 • www.parcdefurfooz.be

2017

RIVERS [museums and tourist sites]

Mosan Medieval Heritage Centre in Bouvignes (Dinant)

Leffe Centre in Dinant

Petit-Leez Castle in Grand-Leez

In the Spanish House at Bouvignes, find out about the natural and historical heritage of the Meuse valley: the old medieval city with its turbulent history, dinanderie (copperwork), the castle and the river.

In the magnificent chapel of a former convent, the Leffe Centre and its “zythologues” or beer experts lift the veil on eight centuries of know-how so you can discover nine varieties of Leffe through interactive experiences and tasting.

The life of this 17th C. fortified farmhouse is punctuated by the art events in its galleries and park: exhibitions of contemporary art, European sculpture, stone sculpture from Zimbabwe, painting and photography.

Place du Baillage, 16 • 5500 Bouvignes +32 82 22 36 16 • www.mpmm.be

Charreau des Capucins, 23 • 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 91 91 • www.leffe.com

Rue de Petit-Leez, 129 • 5031 Grand-Leez +32 81 64 08 66 • www.chateaupetitleez.com

Pataphonie Centre in Dinant

Cruises on the Meuse (Dinant)

May 1940 Remembrance Museum in Haut-le-Wastia (Anhée)

Surprise yourself by discovering your own musical talents in this place devoted to sonic exploration. Astonish your ears with the unexpected resonances of water flutes, the jantophone, the lithophone and crazy stringed instruments invented by Max Vandervorst. Genuinely for all ages to enjoy together.

Seeing the Meuse and its valley from the deck of a boat really is a different experience... On the quay in the centre of Dinant, two boat companies offer to welcome you on board for their regular trips, themed cruises and excursions combined with walks. A trip from Namur to Dinant is possible.

This place of remembrance is dedicated to the defence of the Meuse in May 1940 and the resistance of the Namur forts. Films and evidence, objects from the trenches, lifesize reconstructions, period documents and other rarer pieces are displayed here.

Rue En Rhée, 51 • 5500 Dinant +32 82 21 39 39 • www.pataphonie.be

Monsieur Sax’s house in Dinant

Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, originally came from Dinant. Today, in the house where he was born in 1814, an interpretation centre is devoted to him, opening eyes and ears to his amazing inventions, his genius and his eventful life. Rue Adolphe Sax, 37 • 5500 Dinant +32 82 21 39 39 • sax.dinant.be

At Dinant: +32 82 22 36 70 www.croisieremosane.be +32 82 22 43 97 www.dinant-evasion.be

At Namur: Rue du Pont, 21 5000 Namur +32 82 22 23 15

Boat rental without permit in Dinant

Place des Français • 5537 Haut-le-Wastia +32 82 61 41 41 www.museedusouvenirmai40.be

Haute Meuse Miniature Train Museum in Heer-Agimont (Hastière)

Quiet and environmentally friendly, these self-drive electric boats can carry up to seven people in absolute safety. They are easy to steer – a single lever controls the direction and speed – and you are sure to enjoy it.

The goodwill of lovers of model and miniature trains helps this museum bring the glorious past of the region’s railway traffic to life, particularly the Dinant-Heer-Agimont line in 1926.

Boulevard Léon Sasserath • 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 43 97 • www.dinant-evasion.be

Rue de France, 122b • 5544 Agimont +32 82 21 98 28 • tmhm02.skyrock.com

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

Namur Mini Goolfy in Jambes (Namur)

Craft Museum in Maredret (Anhée)

Computer Museum NAM-IP in Namur

A mini-golf course is fine, but how about a blacklight mini-golf course? The concept is being increasingly emulated in Europe. A day out with family or friends you will never forget. Goolfy at Namur also organises birthday packages.

In the little village of Maredret in the heart of the Molignée valley, a permanent exhibition highlights the creations of local craftspeople: ceramics, weaving, leatherwork, sculpture, patchwork and copperwork.

This museum presents the Belgian roots of the history of information technology and highlights a small collection of tangible heritage including all kinds of calculating machines and the Bull model of the first Bancontact device installed in Belgium.

Acinapolis complex, Rue de la Gare Fleurie, 16 5100 Jambes +32 81 30 94 00 • www.goolfy.com

Rue des Artisans, 12b • 5537 Maredret +32 82 69 98 90 • www.maredretartisanat.be

Rue Henri Blès, 192A • 5000 Namur +32 81 34 64 99 • www.nam-ip.be

Pirouette play centre in Jambes (Namur)

Guy Delforge Perfume Workshop in Namur

Bowling & Squash plus Laser Game in Namur

This 1,200 m2 area covered, heated area is intended for children aged between one and 12. Places for limitless adventures suitable for their age ranging from the ball pool and soft play obstacles to hanging tunnels and rope bridges.

In the former officers’ mess at the Counts’ Castle in Namur, an underground route allows you to discover the stages of creating perfumes, from the raw materials to the maceration galleries, including the composition “organ”.

Why not try one of the 16 bowling alleys on this leisure site, unless you prefer a fast game of squash. How about raising your adrenalin levels with a laser game in a huge blacklight maze?

Chaussée de Liège, 159 • 5100 Jambes +32 81 30 13 01 • www.pirouette.be

Route Merveilleuse, 60 • 5000 Namur +32 81 22 12 19 • www.delforge.com

Museum of the Battle of Ligny, 16 June 1815, in Ligny (Sombreffe)

Namur Citadel visitor centre

African Museum in Namur

An essential visit before entering the fortress and walking round the town it dominates, this Centre, in the old Terra Nova barracks, retraces 2,000 years of urban and military history through the saga of this fortified site and the town of Namur.

With a collection of objects and documents linked to the Belgian colonial past, this museum shows Central Africa, and particularly the Congo, as it appeared to the 19th-century explorers. It also has a rich library, with 20,000 books and periodicals.

Route Merveilleuse, 64 • 5000 Namur +32 81 65 45 00 www.citadelle.namur.be

Rue du 1er Lancier, 1 • 5000 Namur +32 81 23 13 83 • www.museeafricainnamur.be

Devoted to the bloody battle that took place in June 1815, this museum and its 35 display cases full of uniforms, weapons, letters, models and copperwork, bring to life one of the episodes marking the Hundred Days. It was Napoleon’s last victory, just before Waterloo. Rue Pont Piraux, 23 • 5140 Ligny +32 71 81 83 13 www.tourisme-ligny-sombreffe.be

Chaussée de Perwez, 251 • 5002 Saint-Servais +32 81 73 10 11 • www.bowlingsquashnamur.be

2017

RIVERS [museums and tourist sites]

Archaeological Museum in Namur

Félicien Rops Provincial Museum in Namur

Waulsort ferry (Hastière)

This museum area is devoted to the famous Namur illustrator, draughtsman, engraver and painter from the end of the 19th century, who notably illustrated publications by famous writers such as Stéphane Mallarmé, Théophile Gauthier and Alfred de Musset.

There is no bridge over the Meuse at Waulsort. So, from April to the beginning of November, come rain or shine, the last Meuse ferry will take you across the great river, as it has done since 1871, on a five-minute trip on board a boat secured by a cable.

Rue Fumal, 12 5000 Namur +32 81 77 67 55 www.museerops.be

The museum’s international renown comes from its great wealth of late Roman (4th‑5th C.) and Merovingian (6th-7th C.) items. The architectural appeal of the building – the former “Halle al’Chair” (Meat Market) – is worth the visit alone.

Namur Citadel tourist train

Rue de Meuse, 38a 5540 Waulsort +32 82 64 44 34

www.hastiere-tourisme.be

Yvoir island in Yvoir

Rue du Pont, 21 5000 Namur +32 81 23 16 31 www.lasan.be/les-musees/ musee-archeologique-de-namur

Provincial Museum of Old Namurois Arts and Crafts – Oignies Treasury in Namur This 25-minute ride, with commentary, on board a small tourist train takes you along the ramparts of the fortress. An excellent introduction to its eventful past while you enjoy unique views of the valley, the town and its churches. Route Merveilleuse, 64 5000 Namur +32 81 65 45 00 www.citadelle.namur.be

Spy Man centre in Jemeppe-sur-Sambre

Part of this island, set in the waters of the Meuse, is a nature reserve where swans and geese can cruise. The other part is given over to leisure for children and adults with a play area, paddling pool, watersports and a café-restaurant. Rue de la Gare 5530 Yvoir +32 82 61 18 67 www.iledyvoir.com

The town house of Gaiffier d’Hestroy, an 18th-C. building, hosts the “TreM.a”, a museum presenting the master craftsmen of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, particularly the Meuse gold and silver work of the monk Hugo d’Oignies, sculptures by the Master of Waha and the Virgin of Marche-les-Dames. Rue de Fer, 24 5000 Namur +32 81 77 67 54 www.museedesartsanciens.be

This Interpretation Centre devoted to Spy Man and his Neanderthal counterparts offers a dramatised route dealing with the discovery of Spy Man in 1886, the importance of the site and the everyday life of a Neanderthal man 30,000 years ago. Route d’Éghezée, 301-303 •5190 Onoz +32 81 74 53 28 • www.hommedespy.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[landscapes and villages]

NOT TO BE MISSED THE PRETTIEST VILLAGES IN WALLONIA www.beauxvillages.be Crupet

Buildings from the 16th to the 19th centuries nestle in the bottom of a narrow valley. Everything is beautiful and genuine: facades, gables and outbuildings, courtyard entrances, small gardens and exterior fittings. A medieval keep rises in the middle of a lake and, higher up in the village, you can visit the church of Saint-Martin, its presbytery and its very unusual artificial grotto where the decoration retraces the life of Saint Anthony of Padua. It has been attracting thousands of visitors for more than 100 years.

Falaën

Sosoye

Yvoir quarries viewpoint 50.3298472, 4.902506

Spontin viewpoint 50.19187, 5.00333

Sept Meuse viewpoint at Profondeville

50.353925, 4.858224 Accessible to the public by skirting the 7 Meuse establishment. Set amid the wild, picturesque meanders of the Molignée valley, the limestone houses of this little Condroz village stretch all along its main street. Certain buildings standing on a small hill attract the eye: the magnificently restored 18th C. church, the presbytery and the 17th C. tithe barn. The Baudart brewery is also worth a detour. The site is crossed by the old TaminesDinant railway line transformed into a RAVeL.

Namur Citadel viewpoint

50.459735, 4.864290 Merveilleuse 60 route opposite the Delforge perfume workshop.

Carondelet Keep viewpoint (Assesse) 50.348840, 4.961441 Rue Haute car park at Crupet.

Calvaire viewpoint (Andenne) 50.489248, 5.104513

A gentle valley landscape topped by the ruins of Montaigle castle contains the beauty and diversity of this village’s heritage of monuments, industry, landscape and culture. The bell-tower of the church emerges above the limestone houses, together with the three tall towers of the fortified farmhouse. The centre of the village is crisscrossed by streets and alleys with very different atmospheres. In summer, simple but harmonious flower displays enhance the beauty and peace.

FIRM FAVOURITES

Noue de Moignelée viewpoint (Sambreville) 50.438434, 4.583519

Freÿr viewpoint

50.220539, 4.895008 This viewpoint is reached along a little path.

Crève-Cœur viewpoint

50.2733611, 4.8959917 Going down Rue Cardinal Mercier, take the pedestrian path going up to the right just after the church.

Croix d’Al Fau viewpoint (Godinne) 50.3386972, 4.869325

Champalle viewpoint (Yvoir) 50.3154111, 4.885939

Balâtre fortified farmhouse viewpoint (Jemeppe-s-Sambre) 50.499894, 4.636199

Grand-Leez Wood viewpoint (Gembloux) 50.594509, 4.788514

Soye Lake viewpoint (Floreffe) 50.448837, 4.735056

2017

RIVERS [gardens and animal parks]

OTHER SIGHTS

NOT TO BE MISSED Annevoie gardens in Annevoie-Rouillon (Anhée)

The themed gardens at Namur Citadel

The Sclaigneaux nature reserve (sometimes called Seilles) in Andenne

The reserve covers more than 50 ha and forms a paradoxical site with a dry chalky grassland landscape, home to many orchids and very rare plants capable of growing in soils full of heavy metals. These 18th C. water gardens blending the French, English and Italian styles offer a picturesque walk in a setting of majestic greenery populated by ancient trees, clipped arbours, fountains and waterfalls. From the romantic Walk of Sighs to the spouting Fountain of Love and the Flower Walk, including the Grand Canal and the playground sculpted in wood, these magnificent gardens are among Wallonia’s most important heritage. Rue des Jardins d’Annevoie, 37A • 5537 Annevoie +32 82 67 97 97 • www.annevoie.be

FIRM FAVOURITES

These gardens form part of a group of four gardens that can be visited in different parts of the town. Two are in the fortress: the medieval-inspired Deux-Tours Garden (Route Merveilleuse, near the Joyeuse Tower) is based on period documents showing the designs of long ago, while the Senteurs garden, of Mediterranean inspiration, releases fragrances that never fail to make an impression. It lies within the castle walls in Champeau Park, in the high part of the fortress (Avenue de l’Ermitage).

Rue Saint-Joseph • 5300 Andenne +32 81 58 26 64 • www.andenne.be/entity/ reserve-naturelle-de-sclaigneaux

Pont d’Amour Ostrich Farm in Sorinnes (Dinant)

Route Merveilleuse, 64 • 5000 Namur +32 81 24 64 44 www.nature-namur.be/page/des-jardins-athemes.html

Jean Chalon Garden Louise-Marie Park in Namur A visit to this farm specialising in flightless birds – ostriches, emus, rheas and cassowaries – offers surprises. There are some unusual products to take away, for eating (packs of fresh and cured meat) and decoration (leather, feathers, eggs).

The orange trees of Freÿr Castle in Waulsort (Hastière)

Rue de la Sablonnière, 2 • 5503 Sorinnes +32 82 22 28 99 • www.autrucherie-pontdamour.be

The Berry Garden in Wépion (Namur)

In the Le Nôtre-style terraced gardens of the former summer residence of the Dukes of Beaufort-Spontin there is a collection of orange trees, many of which are almost four hundred years old. When the trees are in flower, in July and August, the pleasant perfume of the orange blossom fills the garden. With the first cold weather, the trees are taken back inside the two orangeries at the end of the garden to spend the winter under cover. The garden also has eight pretty hedge mazes, where getting lost becomes a delight.

This themed garden in the town centre is a tribute to a famous 19th C. botanist from Namur. It evokes the symbolic links between human beings and plants going back thousands of years: sacred vegetables, alchemists’ plants and herbs linked to our traditions and beliefs. There are 300 species collected here. Boulevard Frère Orban • 5000 Namur +32 80 09 35 62 • www.nature-namur.be

Opened in May 2011, this garden offers to help you discover many berry bushes that can be grown here. Apart from the local star of the show (the Wépion strawberry), 200 other varieties of fruits are offered to gourmets and potential growers. Chaussée de Dinant, 1092 • 5100 Wépion +32 81 46 20 07 • www.nature-namur.be

Freÿr/Meuse castle and gardens Freyr, 12 • 5540 Waulsort +32 82 22 22 00 • www.freyr.be 16

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[sporting activities]

FIRM FAVOURITES Andenne Arena in Andenne

This sports centre in the town centre is a unique site in Wallonia devoted to sport and leisure. Easy to get to, with free parking and an electric vehicle recharging station, it is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility. It has a 25 m swimming pool and a small pool, a 200 m2 central café and many sports halls, courts, pitches, rooms and equipment. Rue Docteur Melin, 14 • 5300 Andenne +32 85 84 95 20 • www.andenne.be

Golf Club in Andenne

With a magnificent location on the slopes of the valley, this club offers a nine-hole course. From the Club House, in an old farmhouse with a rustic atmosphere, you will appreciate the view of the undulating design of the course and the panoramic view of the Meuse valley. Rue de Stud, 52 • 5300 Andenne +32 85 84 34 04 • www.golfclubandenne.be

The Saint-Jacques Trail (Namur)

Adventure activities and descent of the Lesse – Kayaks Libert/ Lesse Kayaks/Dinant Aventures in Anseremme (Dinant)

A 45-km route, climbing and falling 1,300 m, leads from Namur fortress to Dinant fortress. The participants follow the water and the forests like thousands of pilgrims before them travelling the Monastic Route to Santiago de Compostela. The Annevoie Gardens are opened specially for the trail, which also passes the Montaigle fortress. The 1st event in 2016 brought together 1,200 runners and walkers. In 2017, this sporting get-together to commemorate the Saint James pilgrimages runs for a whole weekend, on 23 and 24 September. An Ultra Trail will extend the experience into the Namur Ardennes…

A relaxed day following the course of the Lesse in a picturesque natural landscape punctuated by castles, cliffs, forests and pebble beaches is guaranteed to help you get away from it all. With a short (12 km) or long (21 km) descent, this leisure activity is available to everyone. You can choose between single- and two-seater boats. For those who enjoy more excitement, the Dinant Adventure park is not far away. It is a route including rope bridges, a laser game, mountain biking, a cable car, death ride, zipline and more. This 18 ha park overlooking the Meuse is set in an old sandstone quarry.

Avenue Reine Astrid, 22 5000 Namur +32 81 77 67 57 www.trailsaintjacquesnamur.com

Place Baudouin Ier, 2 5500 Anseremme • +32 82 22 43 97

Quai de Meuse, 1 • 5500 Anseremme +32 82 22 61 86 • www.kayaks-libert.com

Kayaks: www.dinant-evasion.be/fr/lesse-kayaks. html?IDC=37 Adventures: www.dinant-evasion.be/fr/dinantaventure.html?IDC=38

OTHER SIGHTS Paintball at Agimont Castle (Hastière)

Legendary Adventures in Dinant and the Upper Meuse area

Rougement Golf Course in Profondeville

A sporting challenge because of its slopes and a technical one because of the accuracy required, this 18-hole golf course dominates the Meuse valley between Namur and Dinant. It reveals an exceptional view of hills and forests. The Club House and “Le Fairway” restaurant in a renovated 19th-century chateau complete the facilities with brasserie and restaurant menus. Chemin du Beau Vallon, 45 • 5100 Profondeville +32 81 41 21 31 • www.golfderougemont.be

A place where you can experience adventures around the medieval castle of Agimont in the cowboy village and 12 other areas, including paintball, airsoft, junior paintball and laser paintball zones. Adventure course in the trees in 100 ha of Ardennes forest. Rue du Manoir, 1 • 5544 Agimont +32 472 69 92 86 • www.agimont.be

Armed with an adventure game bag, participants in this leisure walk are propelled into the world of the “Oath of the Seven Stones”, a route full of challenges running through five villages in the region. The adventure is completed with free mobile apps. Avenue Colonel Cadoux, 8 • 5500 Dinant +32 82 22 28 70 • www.aventureslegendaires.be

2017

RIVERS [sporting activities]

John Martin’s Karting track in Franière (Floreffe)

La Capitainerie in Jambes (Namur)

Indoor (Warnant) and outdoor (Sorinnes) paintball

Try out the pleasures of speed in complete safety on two indoor 850-m circuits under the attentive eyes of the track marshals and improve your performances over the 15-minute sessions. Suits, helmets and balaclavas can be borrowed.

The Capitainerie marina offers you a chance to try out paddle surfing as well as trying the Blob Jump, a giant catapult cushion, or even renting Catamosans, boats not requiring a permit, with four, eight or 12 places.

A 17,500 m2 wooded site at Sorinne, adapted with forts, a bridge and a sand quarry bunker, offers a wonderful playing area. The indoor course at Warnant has many adaptations, also offering an 80 m2 heated building for those accompanying the players.

Rue de la Glacerie, 6 5150 Franière +32 81 44 44 44 www.jmkarting.com

Boulevard de la Meuse, 38 5100 Jambes +32 81 31 39 46 www.lacapitainerie.be

Rue de la Sablonnière 5503 Sorinnes +32 477 60 34 22 www.paintballexperience.be

[local products and cuisine]

THE RESTAURANTS NOT TO BE MISSED L’Essentiel 1 Michelin star

Rue Roger Clément 32, 5020 Namur Telephone: 081 56 86 16 www.lessentiel.be

L’Eau vive

2 Michelin stars

Route de Floreffe, 37 5170 Rivière (Profondeville) +32 81 41 11 51 www.eau-vive.be

Chai gourmand 1 Michelin star

Chaussée de Charleroi, 74 5030 Gembloux +32 81 60 09 88 www.chaigourmand.be

Hostellerie Gilain

La Bergerie de Lives-sur-Meuse 1 Michelin star

Rue de Mosanville, 100 5101 Lives-sur-Meuse +32 81 58 06 13 www.bergerielives.be

L’air du temps

2 Michelin stars In 2016, its chef Sang Hoon Degeimbre received the “Foreign Restaurateur of the Year” award from his peers in Venice, presented by the Grandes Tables du Monde association. His creativity and fine dishes, full of character, have made him an excellent worldwide ambassador for Belgian cuisine. Rue de la Croix Monet, 2 5310 Éghezée +32 81 81 30 48 http://airdutemps.be

1 Michelin star

The Pays de Namur wine route Cycle along quiet roads to discover the wines of the Pays de Namur: an 159-km tourist route winding among 12 vineyards. Meet the passionate people developing our land, from small producers to professionals. The products include red, white and sparkling wines as well as fruit and nut wines... A new 33-km loop entitled “Wine for a day, wine for always” starts at the tourist centre, allowing you to discover the vineyards of La Bruyère.

Liroux, 1 5503 Dinant +32 83 21 57 42 www.hostelleriegilain.com

Pays de Namur Tourist Centre Place de la Station 5000 Namur +32 81 24 64 49 www.paysdenamur.be/fr/news/route-du-vin-enpays-de-namur

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[accommodation]

UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATION

MS Elisabeth barge – B&B

Ange-Gabriel barge – B&B

You can sleep peacefully, rocked by the slight movement of the water, in the town of Namur in the four guest rooms full of character inside the MS Elisabeth barge. Three of them have portholes overlooking the water. Mini-cruise possible on request.

Another form of river accommodation, this boat, ideal for small groups, offers four double cabins and a large room allowing communal activities. The boat is designed and equipped to offer full independence for several days sailing with ten people on board. Evenings and quayside stays are also offered.

Do you need a hideaway in the wilds? A love nest? A huge holiday home for your tribe? A base camp for your sports teams and adventures? Somewhere charming or luxurious to say? Absolute independence, or service with all the trimmings? All options are possible. All you need to do is go through the huge range of accommodation offered by these online directories. Hotels, holiday villages, social tourism, campsites: www.paysdesvallees.be/fr/hebergement www.accueilchampetre.be www.gitesdewallonie.be www.ardennes-etapes.be

Félicien Rops youth hostel in Namur

At Namur quay, below the fortress. + 32 495 43 18 61 www.mselisabeth.be

The Namur Youth Hostel is ideally located in a protected Meuse-style villa with a huge internal courtyard and open spaces beside the river and near the fortress. Unusually for Namur, it offers free parking.

At Namur quay and anywhere else in Belgium on request. +32 487 88 56 87 www.ange-gabriel.be

Download our “campsites” pack www.paysdesvallees.be

Avenue Félicien Rops, 8 5000 Namur + 32 81 22 36 88 www.lesaubergesdejeunesse.be/website/action/ hotel?id=8

Andenne Golf Gîte

This converted former farm cottage is ideal for good golfing times with your family and friends. Charming accommodation with a heated swimming pool nearby (4 km) in the centre of Andenne and, of course, with direct access to the 9-hole course. Rue de Stud, 58 5300 Andenne +32 477 18 62 61 www.gitesdewallonie.be/hebergement/ logement/andenne/gite-du-golf-dandenne

2017

RIVERS [events]

NOT TO BE MISSED The Walloon Festival in Namur

OTHER EVENTS In the Province of Namur, festivals form part of the way of life throughout the year. About 40 major events and many local ones punctuate its social life: traditional festivals going back centuries; seasonal festivities; historical reconstructions; culinary or garden events; festivals of music, dance or foreign art; sports meetings or unusual activities, etc. The crowning glory is the Walloon Festival, a huge celebration that shakes up the Walloon capital Namur for several days in September.

The biggest festival of the year in Wallonia focuses on the capital of the region and the province. It is an event everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. Celebrations take over the whole town at the end of September with a very important programme of concerts, events, tastings, traditional parades, markets, dances and official events. Chaos is not far from the spirit of normally wise and studious Namur. This national festival also remains open to Flemish friends and guests and people from neighbouring countries, in a good European and regional spirit. Rue des Brasseurs, 148 5000 Namur +32 81 222 999 www.fetesdewallonie.be

FIRM FAVOURITES Jardi-Nature in Maredsous 20-21 May 2017 This garden show organised in the wellknown Maredsous Abbey Park, attracts about 100 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors interested in the art of gardening. The size and reputation of this original show just keep on growing. Rue de Maredsous, 11 5537 Denée +32 71 70 36 17 www.jardi-nature.be

Dinant bath tub regatta 15 August 2017 This wild, traditional contest, full of imagination, pits clever but inexperienced freshwater sailors against one another for laughs on board the craziest boats. An unforgettable day to experience with your family. Rue des Orfèvres, 13 5500 Dinant +32 479 27 91 25 www.lesbaignoires.be

A full events diary is available at www. paysdesvallees.be. You can also get it from the various Tourist Offices.

The Bouge Bonfire 5 March 2017 Every year on “Firebrand Sunday”, the inhabitants of Bouge light a giant beacon on the heights that can be seen all along the valley. This pagan tradition, going back thousands of years and often practised in Wallonia, symbolically salutes the death of winter and the return of the light. Here, the “sacrifice” takes on memorable and very festive proportions. +32 81 73 33 33 +32 476 39 04 03 www.grandfeudebouge.be

The Mosan Summer Festival in July, August and September Throughout the Province of Namur, this essentially classical music festival (although also focusing on jazz, traditional folk music and musical theatre) takes place at historic sites all over the province. The quality musicians who perform at the Mosan Summer Festival make the whole region ring with their art. +32 82 22 59 24 www.etemosan.be

The Esperanzah! Festival in Floreffe – 4,5,6 August 2017 This festival of world music, activists, nomads and pluralists invites you to discover other original rhythms and sounds from far-off places. The international programme offers about 20 concerts in the magical setting of Floreffe Abbey. For four days, it is transformed into a great, colourful souk full of ethnic restaurants with unusual aromas and a colourful world market. Mobilising many NGOs and associations, Esperanzah! is also a festival that is committed to creating another world and bringing people together. +32 83 66 83 47 www.esperanzah.be

The Passion Play in Ligny on the six Sundays before Easter

Namur Nautical Jousts – the weekend before 15 August

This tradition goes back to 1925: every Sunday of Lent, 150 actors and extras, mainly from the village, throw themselves into the mystical atmosphere of the Passion Play. They create a living fresco dramatising the episodes from the Passion of Christ and issues from the modern world. Real popular theatre with links to medieval mystery plays.

Strapping lads from two rival clans – the inhabitants of the two banks of the Meuse – dressed in period costume have confronted one another on the water since the 16th century. On one side the Plantois and on the other the Jambois. Inspired by the horseback tournaments of the period, the jousts were organised by the corporation of boatmen. In 1954, the tradition was restored by the Namurois Folklore Committee in accordance with the ancient customs.

+32 71 88 54 47 www.passionligny.be

Two unforgettable second-hand markets Floreffe Pentecôte – 3 and 4 June 2017 and Temploux 19 and 20 August 2017 The traditional Whitsun second-hand market attracts almost 20,000 people to Floreffe, and even more go to Temploux, where a human tide presses around the 2,000 exhibitors. Two exceptional atmospheres, where some are there to do business and others are simply curious. +32 81 44 71 19 www.otfloreffe.be +32 81 56 73 17 www.temploux.be/~brocante

+32 81 24 64 49

More events at www.paysdesvallees.be under the “Activities” heading

destinationâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;THE VALLEY COUNTRY

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [architectural and natural heritage]

NOT TO BE MISSED

OTHER SIGHTS

The Eau d’Heure Lakes on the border between the provinces of Namur and Hainaut

Brûly-de-Pesche 1940 (Couvin)

On 6 June 1940, Hitler arrived at Brûly-dePesche with his General Staff to direct the French campaign from his bunker. Today, the site still contains vestiges of his stay. In two pavilions, exhibitions present material from the time, models and photos.

Five lakes form the largest artificial body of water in the country. This 1,800-ha site consists of equal areas of forests, meadows and lakes. There are great opportunities for walking or cycling or Segway tours. Amid very jagged contours, the woodland landscapes reveal bodies of water where many sports and leisure activities are offered. Visiting the installations of the biggest dam in Belgium is just one of very many attractions here.

Place Saint-Méen 5660 Brûly-de-Pesche +32 60 34 01 40 www.bdp1940.be

Neptune Caves in Petigny (Couvin)

Route de la Plate Taille, 99 6640 Boussu-lez-Walcourt +32 71 50 92 92 www.lacsdeleaudheure.be

FIRM FAVOURITE Fondry des Chiens in Nismes (Viroinval) This amazing looking natural site, formed by spectacular collapses due to the erosion of the limestone rock, includes a cavern, caves and a very steep gorge. It offers circular walks where you can discover rare plants and exceptional views. It has rare flora, particularly orchids and globularias, due to its chalk grassland soil, which dries and warms up quickly. 5670 Nismes +32 60 31 16 35

Having reached the foot of a limestone cliff, you enter the coolness of the caves to discover the impressive beauty of their underground decoration, first on foot and then by boat. A music and light show enhances the charm of these natural formations. Route de l’Adujoir, 24 5660 Petigny +32 60 31 19 54 www.grottesdeneptune.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

Collegiate church of SaintFeuillen in Fosses-la-Ville

Abbey of Saint-Gérard in Saint-Gérard (Mettet)

Romanesque baptismal fonts decorated with four heads inspired by West Asian art. Rue Sainte-Colombe 5680 Soulme +32 82 67 88 32 www.openchurches.be

Bruyères Gallo-Roman villa in Treignes (Viroinval)

Only the abbey buildings, two large 18th-century farm buildings and the 13th-century crypt remain of this Benedictine monastery founded in 919. Now a cultural centre and hotel with charm, it welcomes guided tours for groups of at least 20 people. Place de Brogne, 3 5640 Saint-Gérard +32 71 79 70 70 www.brogne.eu

On the site of an old Irish monastery, this building, transformed into a chapter of canons by the Bishop of Liège in the 10th C., still shows a Romanesque tower, an imposing choir decorated with sculpted panels and a crypt.

Underground Philippeville 300 m from the centre of the modern village, between the 1st to the 4th century there was a villa surrounded by outbuildings. The foundations have been restored, allowing visitors to see various rooms, the large bath-house, the cellar and the drainage system.

Place du Chapître, 2-20 5070 Fosses-la-Ville www.fosses-la-ville.be/spip.php?article18

Church of Saint-Pierre in Mettet

Rue de Bruyères 5670 Treignes +32 60 39 02 43 www.museedumalgretout.be

10 km of underground galleries built in the 17th C. under the Philippeville stronghold to link the main site to its outposts. They extend for about 500 metres and are now accessible to the public throughout the year.

Basilica of Saint-Materne in Walcourt

Rue des Religieuses, 2 5600 Philippeville +32 71 66 23 00 www.tourismephilippeville.be

Church of Sainte-Colombe in Soulme (Doische)

An 11th C. Romanesque church turned into a Gothic church, this church includes a remarkable white stone rood screen as well as the statue of Our Lady of Walcourt, famous after it miraculously escaped the fire that ravaged the church in 1228.

The oldest parts of this often remodelled church date back to the 11th century. It is decorated in the Baroque style with a stuccoed ceiling dating from 1750. It contains notable furniture, particularly the 18th-century high altar and pulpit. Place de Brogne, 1 5640 Mettet (Saint-Gérard) +32 478 31 01 80 www.openchurches.be

This little 11th C. Romanesque church in the village of Soulme, surrounded by an old walled cemetery, contains an altar dedicated to Saint Columba the virgin martyr and

Rue de la Basilique, 12 5650 Walcourt +32 71 61 13 66 www.openchurches.be

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [museums and tourist sites]

NOT TO BE MISSED CFV3V steam museum in Treignes (Viroinval)

On the site of the old station, the collections include various steam, diesel and electric locomotives, carriages and railway documents. Ideally, the visit is completed with a trip on the Trois Vallées railway line. Take a trip back in time, travelling through the countryside on board a genuine oldstyle train pulled by a steam locomotive or in a railcar. The railway also offers nighttime and themed trips (Saint Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Christmas) as well as customised group trips.

FIRM FAVOURITES ReGare in Fosses-la-Ville

Today, this renovated former railway station houses a tourist display of historical heritage, folklore and nature from the Fosses-la-Ville area. There, visitors can get an idea of the places worth visiting: Bambois Lake, the traditional procession in honour of Saint Feuillen and the collegiate church that bears his name, the famous Chinels of Fosses carnival, the region’s Roman past, etc. Place de la Gare, 7 • 5070 Fosses-la-Ville +32 71 77 25 80 • www.regare.be

Treignes, village of museums (Viroinval)

Six museums within a short distance of one another offer you: the restored GalloRoman villa of Bruyères (bath house and drainage system) and the Malgré-Tout Museum (overview of the archaeology of the region); the Viroin Ecomuseum (ancient regional trades with their tools and agricultural machinery); the Arthur Masson Space (a route and show based on the writer’s work) and the steam railway museum. And we should add the Small Format Museum at Nismes (a newcomer!). www.treignes.info

Plateau de la Gare, 1 • 5670 Treignes +32 60 39 09 48 • www.cfv3v.eu

OTHER SIGHTS Skywalk in Boussu-lez-Walcourt Let the amazing view from the top of the two glazed towers 107 m above street level take your breath away! Easy access by lift with an unbeatable view over the Plate Taille, Eau d’Heure and Falemprise lakes. Route de la Plate Taille, 99 6440 Boussu-lez-Walcourt • +32 71 50 92 92 www.lecrocodilerouge.be www.lacsdeleaudheure.be

Red Crocodile amphibus in Boussu-lez-Walcourt

Eau d’Heure Lakes Laser Game in Boussu-lez-Walcourt

Croco Express in Boussu-lez-Walcourt

The Red Crocodile, an amphibious bus running on the road and sailing the Eau d’Heure lakes, takes its visitors, equipped with headphones, on a wild treasure hunt. The only attraction of its kind in Europe, for the whole family.

The mist, the sound of the trees, the water, the storm, the lightning... you are off at the start of a game of many twists and turns. The concept: alone or in teams, the players hunt and fight Krokodil-Rex. The aim is to score as many points as possible.

This tourist train offers a tour of the beautiful Eau d’Heure lake region in complete peace and quiet. The ticket allows you to hop on and off all day at seven different stops.

Route de la Plate Taille, 99 • 6440 Boussu-lez-Walcourt +32 71 30 21 13 • www.lecrocodilerouge.be

Route de la Plate Taille, 99 • 6440 Boussu-lez-Walcourt +32 71 30 21 13 • www.lepaysdeslacs.be 24

Route de la Plate Taille, 99 • 6440 Boussu-lez-Walcourt +32 71 30 21 13 • www.lecrocodilerouge.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

House of Curiosities – rural museum in Cul-des-Sarts (Couvin)

Le Petit Chapitre Museum in Fosses-la-Ville

Small Format Museum in Nismes (Viroinval)

An unexpected concept for this contemporary art museum, which presents a collection of 3,500 works. They are all on paper in A4 format. Engravings, pencil and ink drawings, paintings, photographs and infographics all from artists from all over the world. Rue Bassidaine, 6 • 5670 Nismes +32 60 31 01 63 • www.museedupetitformat.be

Relais de Falemprise in Silenrieux (Cerfontaine) The painstaking reconstructions at this museum allow your family to discover country life as it once was: a clog-maker’s workshop with all his tools, a surgery where the doctor prepared his remedies, etc. With shows for children.

A delightful gallery of 650 dolls patiently made by Lilette Arnould since 1978. They are dressed in the most beautiful traditional costumes from Flanders and Wallonia: Gilles de Binche, Blancs Moussîs, Chinels and many others.

Rue de Rocroi, 3 • 5660 Cul-des-Sarts +32 60 37 87 72 • www.museevieruralecds.be

Place du Chapitre, 10 • 5070 Fosses-la-Ville +32 71 71 46 24 www.fosses-la-ville.be/spip.php?article65

Doische Climbing Centre

Le Pachy Leisure Centre in Fosses-la-Ville

A series of beach activities for a family break at the Eau d’Heure lakes: refreshments, leisure activities, open-air sports, play area, swimming area with lifeguard, etc. Everything you need for a happy, relaxing time is here. Route de Falemprise, 1 • 5630 Cerfontaine +32 60 39 04 04 • www.falemprise.be

Malgré-Tout Museum in Treignes (Viroinval)

A thousand square metres of climbs up to 15 metres high await you, with routes for all levels. With a café and a gîte for six to eight people open to everyone, the centre welcomes you every day from 10am to 10pm. Rue de l’Emprunt 6a • 5680 Doische, +32 82 66 61 82 • www.doische-escalade.be

This family-run leisure centre is near Bambois Lake and its warm welcome has beguiled tourists of all nationalities. The campsite is equipped with an open-air Olympic swimming pool and various sports facilities offering tennis, beach volleyball, futsal, etc. Rue du Grand Étang, 11 • 5070 Fosses-la-Ville +32 71 71 20 38 • www.campinglepachy.be

The collections inside are devoted to regional archaeological discoveries ranging from Neanderthal Man to the end of the Gallo-Roman period. Outside, you will find reconstructions and workshops on prehistoric techniques. Rue de la Gare, 28 • 5670 Treignes +32 60 39 02 43 • www.museedumalgretout.be

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [landscapes and villages]

NOT TO BE MISSED THE PRETTIEST VILLAGES IN WALLONIA www.beauxvillages.be Fagnolle

Soulme

Vierves

Half way up a slope in an environment of remarkable biological and landscape interest, Fagnolle can be glimpsed through a screen of rare hedges and remarkable trees. At the bottom, in the damp depths, surrounded by a ring of trees marking the site of old walls, now disappeared, the ruins of Fagnolle castle emerge. The village has listed sites such as the 16th-C. church of Saint-Martin, the presbytery and the wash house. The Mayor’s house is also worth seeing. The alleys lead to Fagnolle’s main square, which has a pond.

Perched on top of a hill dominating the Hermeton valley, the little village of Soulme stands out from a distance because of the huge tower of its church. The village has only about 50 houses, from the 18th and 19th C., grouped around the church. In limestone or covered with traditional whitewash and topped with slates, the harmonious group they form still includes farms where the seasons mark the pace of life. Leaving the centre of the village, pleasant field or forest paths lead to the foot to the hill beside the Hermeton and its tributary the Omeri.

From the heights of Olloy-sur-Viroin, your gaze is drawn down to the village and the superb castle of Vierves-sur-Viroin, on the border with the Ardennes. The steep little alleys between buildings cut into the contours of the land exude an almost Mediterranean atmosphere. The village is surrounded by quite an unusual landscape of chalk grassland, a refuge for rare and endemic plants and animals. Old sheep pastures that became scrub at the beginning of the 20th century are undergoing restoration projects.

Viewpoint from Fondry des Chiens to Nismes (Viroinval) 50.069117, 4.555967

Soulme viewpoint 50.187250, 4.738850

FIRM FAVOURITES Viewpoint from Crique des Cabiniers to Cerfontaine 50.175433, 4.384467 Viewpoint from Ry de Rome dam to Couvin 50.022633, 4.534367

Dourbes viewpoint 50.085750, 4.564717 Rue de la Roche à Lomme

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[gardens and animal parks]

FIRM FAVOURITES Bambois Lake themed gardens in Fosses-la-Ville

Twelve themed natural or semi-natural gardens offer a variety of ambiances for all tastes: English and French gardens, gardens with animals and water, a scented garden, vegetable garden, philosophical garden, dream garden and more. Around Bambois Lake they offer the chance to explore the different natural environments of our regions and to observe animals and fish. With two beaches along the lake and a play area. Rue du Grand Étang 5070 Fosses-la-Ville +32 71 71 43 89 www.lacdebambois.be

Ô Gardens in Nismes (Viroinval)

Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park and the Marie Victorin Centre in Vierves-sur-Viroin (Viroinval)

Two new municipalities have been added to this park in 2016 and it now covers more than 12,000 ha. It has exceptional landscapes, including the eight charming villages of Viroinval, three geological regions (slaty Fagne, Calestienne, the Ardennes foothills), three valleys (Eau Noire, Eau Blanche, Viroin), a well-preserved natural islet and a treasury of natural heritage. The Marie Victorin Centre can be found at Vierves-sur-Viroin in the centre of the park. Associated with the Gembloux University Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, it is devoted to study, research and education for nature conservation. Rue des Écoles, 21 5670 Vierves-sur-Viroin +32 60 39 98 78 www.cercles-naturalistes.be

OTHER SIGHTS Educational eco-path: the trees talk to you in Cerfontaine

River, lakes, waterfalls and interlinked canals offer a romantic natural setting for a ride on an electric boat around Licot Castle. A water-themed play area will delight children. Anyone who enjoys a stroll will love the many discovery paths and waymarked walks. Rue Vieille-Église, 5 5670 Nismes +32 60 31 16 35 www.viroinval.be

This circuit, interspersed with panels presenting the essential facts about the indigenous woodland, help you understand the forest and its ecosystem. It is also a chance to discover the virtues of certain trees and the legends told about them. (Through woodland) 5630 Cerfontaine +32 71 64 36 15 www.sicerfontaine.be

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [sporting activities]

NOT TO BE MISSED Water activities at the Eau d’Heure Lakes in Boussu-lez-Walcourt

Fagnes Karting Track in Mariembourg (Couvin)

More than 25 sporting, recreational and spa activities are available on these bodies of water, some via clubs and others during an ordinary day’s visit. Discover “The Spin”, for example, the only cable skiing facility in the country. Put your windsurfing board in the water or try out water-skiing, kayaking, dinghy sailing or jet skiing. Sail your boat or discover watersports with day hire. You can enjoy pedalos, beach volleyball, swimming and, when the sun fails to shine, the heated pleasures of the Aquacentre.

At 1,388 m, this circuit is one of the longest in Europe. Except for championships and special events, the track is divided into two parts and can be hired. Its infrastructures include a cafeteria, panoramic restaurant and stand with an unbeatable view of the circuit.

Plate Taille Reception Centre • Route de la Plate Taille, 99 6440 Boussu-Lez-Walcourt • +32 71 50 92 92 http://www.lacsdeleaudheure.be/leh-fr/menu-centre/que-faire/index.html

Natura Park in Boussu-lez-Walcourt

This site includes many open-air activities: routes in the trees (tree climbing), kayaking, zip line, sailing, an educational challenge and the Tower Jump, a daring leap from a tower more than 20 metres high amid land art! Route de la Plate Taille, 99 • 6440 Boussu-Lez-Walcourt +32 71 20 22 52 • www.naturaparc.be

Parc Industriel Rue du Karting, 13 b • 5660 Mariembourg +32 60 31 26 70 • www.kartingdesfagnes.com

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[local products and cuisine]

TWO TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS NOT TO BE MISSED Foie gras from La Sauvenière farm in Hemptinne (Florennes) This farm offers all food products derived from duck, including, of course, the star product: foie gras. Its founders began their activities 20 years ago, at first discreetly, but later developing duck rearing professionally while maintaining the artisan character of their highly prized products. Tours possible for groups of at least 15 people. Chemin de Philippeville, 9 • 5620 Hemptinne-lez-Florennes +32 71 66 86 08 • www.foie-gras-de-la-sauveniere.be

Vanlieff’s chocolate factory in Chastrès (Walcourt) The origin of this chocolate shop in 1989 was an original creation based on a regional speciality: Eau de Villée. This fruit and lemon liqueur inspired a first praline... quickly followed by other chocolate delights. Biscuits and confectionery have been added to create an irresistible range. Allée J. F. Kennedy, 2 • 5650, Chastrès +32 71 63 46 30 • www.chocolaterie-vanlieffs.com

RESTAURANTS NOT TO BE MISSED

Le Castel

Hostellerie Dispa

La Côte d’Or

Gault et Millau 15/20 Rue du Jardinet, 7 5650 Walcourt

Nulle Part Ailleurs Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue de la Gare, 10 5660 Couvin

Le Metin

Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue Albert Ier, 123b 5640 Mettet

Au Sanglier des Ardennes

Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue J.-B. Périquet, 4 5670 Oignies-en-Thiérache

Matthias and Sea Gault et Millau 13/20 Route de Philippeville, 34 5651 Tarcienne

Recommended by Gault et Millau Rue du Chapitre, 10 5070 Fosses-la-Ville

Recommended by Gault et Millau Rue de la Gendarmerie, 1 5600 Philippeville

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [accommodation]

UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATION

The Boathouse in Cul-des-Sarts (Couvin)

The Priory of Saint-Lambert in Surice (Philippeville)

Getting away from it all in a cabin love nest? It is an old dream that can come true in this former boathouse transformed into simple, intimate accommodation for rediscovering yourselves as a couple in contact with nature amid 10 ha of private property beside a lake.

This former presbytery standing in a small village is no longer an austere spiritual retreat and now accommodates up to 15 people with all comforts. Some of the lounge, dining room and bedroom furniture has been custom-made by craftsmen. It offers a large park and terrace and the chance to watch the owners milk the cows on request.

Download our “campsites” pack www.paysdesvallees.be

Rue de Rocroi, 16 5660 Cul-Des-Sarts +32 479 40 57 83 www.lacabanesurleau.be

Rue de la Fontaine St-Lambert, 57 5600 Surice +32 82 67 78 65 www.valleesdeseauxvives.be/fr/prieure-saintlambert.html?IDC=25814&IDD=503336917

destinationâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;THE VALLEY COUNTRY

2017

LAKES IN THE VALLEY COUNTRY [events]

NOT TO BE MISSED Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse parades recognised by UNESCO as intangible heritage. Traditional military parades are a major elements of cultural identity for the region between the Sambre and the Meuse. These are processions escorted by companies organised on an old-style military model (usually from the time of the Napoleonic empire). Each of them includes dozens or even hundreds of marchers. These parades play a key role as a factor for integration and social cohesion. For tourists, they provide a gripping spectacle, full of excitement and fun. www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be

The Saint-Feuillen Parade in Fosses-la-Ville Every seven years (next one in 2017), on the last Sunday in September. www.saintfeuillen2012.be

Trinity in Walcourt Trinity Sunday (the one after Pentecost). www.latrinite.be

The Saint-Pierre Parade in Biesmerée

The Sainte-Anne Parade in Silenrieux

The Sunday after 29 June.

The weekend nearest to 26 July.

www.mettet.be/loisirs/traditions-et-folklores/ marches-folkloriques-1/biesmeree

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-marchesainte-anne-a-silenrieux

The Saints-Pierre-et-Paul Parade in Florennes

The Saint-Fiacre Parade in Tarcienne

On 29 June (if a Sunday) or the following Sunday.

The first Sunday in May.

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-saintspierre-et-paul-a-483

The Saint-Éloi Parade in Laneffe

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-marchesaint-fiacre-a-tarcienne

The Saint-Pierre Parade in Villers-deux-Églises

The fourth Sunday in June.

On 29 June (if a Sunday) or the following Sunday.

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-marchesaint-eloi-a-laneffe

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-marchesaint-pierre-a-villers

The Saint-Pierre Parade in Morialmé

The Saints-Pierre-et-Paul Parade in Thy-le-Château

The Sunday after 29 June.

On 29 June (if a Sunday) or the following Sunday.

www.entre-sambre-et-meuse.be/la-marchesaint-pierre-a-morialme

www.marchedethy.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

FIRM FAVOURITES The Jules Tacheny circuit in Mettet

OTHER EVENTS In this part of the province of Namur, the most important festivities are the traditional Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse Parades. These traditions, which are known to go back several centuries, are classed by UNESCO as world heritage and attract considerable crowds. But a lot of other more local and convivial festivals take place in the region: culinary and garden events, music festivals, sports meetings and unusual activities, etc. A full events diary is available at www. paysdesvallees.be. You can also get it from the various Tourist Offices.

Vierves-sur-Viroin Carnival 28 February

Opened in 2010, this 2,280 m circuit is used by motorbikes and cars. It was built on a dedicated 14-ha site with a 13-metre height variation. The natural stands give a panoramic view over the whole circuit. Apart from competitions, training, initiations and courses are organised all year round. www.circuit-mettet.be

More events at www.paysdesvallees.be under the “Activities” heading

In February, on Shrove Tuesday at Viervessur-Viroin, a crazy masked troupe commemorates the tragic destiny of Johan Simon, who has become the human symbol of winter. Perched on a cart and booed through the streets on the Sunday, he is finally burned on the Tuesday evening in the village square. In the neighbouring village of Olloy-sur-Viroin, “Chebette” meets the same fate: she is burned and then thrown in the river. At Treignes, carnival also ends with a big bonfire. These traditional customs are now enjoyed by children but their disturbing roots go back to obscure medieval practices. +32 60 39 91 56 www.viroinval.be/fr/le-village-de-vierves-surviroin.html?IDC=24780&IDD=35683

The Eau d’Heure Green Fair in Cerfontaine 5 and 6 August Old crafts and local products can be seen in August during the three days of the fair and bric-a-brac market. Themed talks and

various activities associated with boating, hunting and fishing, concerts and shows attract 25,000 visitors and about 100 exhibitors. +32 71 64 46 67 www.la-foire-verte.be

Mariembourg Steam Festival 23 and 24 September Make the journey between Mariembourg and Treignes as it used to be done years ago on coaches pulled by steam engines puffing, blowing and smoking their way along the 15-kilometre route of line 132, including 26 bridges. On arrival at Treignes, the Railway Museum offers you more to discover. +32 60 31 24 40 http://site.cfv3v.eu/site

The Toine Culot Festival in Treignes 23 and 24 September Toine Culot is a famous character in the Toinade, a cycle of five of the 30 novels written by Arthur Masson (1896-1970). At the time of the Walloon Festival, festivities are organised in Treignes (which is, in fact, the novels’ imaginary village of Trignolles, of which Toine was the mayor). Here you will find reconstructions of an old school, the regional cuisine of the time and in Toine’s style, theatre in Walloon, historical parades in old-style costumes, games from the belle époque, an old book exchange, etc. Nostalgia is guaranteed. +32 60 39 15 00 www.espacemasson.be

2017

ARDENNES [architectural and natural heritage]

NOT TO BE MISSED

The Grottes de Han-sur-Lesse Estate (Rochefort)

Malagne, Rochefort Archéoparc

Here, archaeological excavations have uncovered a large Gallo-Roman farm. In a magnificent natural setting amid animal quarters and vegetable gardens designed in the Gallo-Roman manner, you can find out how our Gallo-Roman ancestors lived. Specially designed activities are offered throughout the year depending on the visitor: independent visits with audioguide, guided tours, workshops, events, courses, birthdays, team building, etc.

Open to the public since 1856, these caves are a major tourist attraction for the Belgians and foreigners (40% of its visitors) making up the half million people who go there every year. Among the many activities offered on the estate, particularly the animal park expanded with new species, we should mention the recent opening of the new attraction the Père Noël Cave, discovered 50 years ago. Kept in its wild state, it is accessible to small groups led by a potholer following the original, authentic route. New and unusual accommodation has been opened and a treetop route is planned. In 2016, the Grottes de Han Estate received the Alfers Grand Prix, rewarding entrepreneurs who have distinguished themselves during the year.

Rue du Coirbois, 85 5580 Rochefort +32 84 22 21 03 www.malagne.be

Vencimont Mill (Gedinne)

Rue J. Lamotte, 2 5580 Han-sur-Lesse +32 84 37 72 13 www.grotte-de-han.be

FIRM FAVOURITES

Goyet Caves (Gesves) In one of the major archaeological sites in Belgium and Europe, Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon man lived successively. One of the oldest dog skulls in the world was discovered here, together with a flute made from bird bone. Visitors are guided by archaeologists from the Prehistory Museum. At the end of the visit, you can taste local products using a flint knife. Rue de Strouvia, 3 5340 Goyet +32 81 58 85 45 www.grottesgoyet.be

The mill, drawing its power from the waters of the Houille, fell silent in 1970 but was revived in 2016, and the miller’s accommodation was turned into a gîte to welcome guests. The gîte appears in the “accommodation” pages so don’t mention it here. The spelt flour produced here supplies the craft bakery also established in the mill, promising unforgettable breakfasts. Rue Grande, 95 5575 Vencimont +32 471 02 32 22 www.moulindevencimont.be

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

OTHER SIGHTS

Vêves Castle in Celles (Houyet)

Lavaux-Sainte-Anne Castle (Rochefort)

Ardois’alle in Alle (Vresse-sur-Semois)

A magnificent castle flanked by six round towers remains of this 9th-C. medieval fortress rebuilt into a more powerful stronghold in the 13th C. Themed and night-time tours are held here, introducing children life in medieval times. Route de Furfooz, 3 • 5561 Celles +32 82 66 63 95 • www.chateau-de-veves.be

The Semois valley and its slate rocks allowed the development of an industry which has now disappeared. Descend into the heart of this lost world – slate mining – for a fascinating tour of the underground galleries and halls.

Greek Orthodox church and monastery in Chevetogne (Ciney)

Rue du Château, 8 5580 Lavaux-Sainte-Anne +32 84 38 83 62 www.chateau-lavaux.com

Rue de Reposseau, 12 5550 Alle +32 497 45 43 74 www.ardoisalle.be

The Beauraing Sanctuaries

This superb building, begun in 1450 and then strengthened over the centuries, has been uninhabited for 180 years, but every room remains furnished and every floor has its own theme: the Museum of the Life of the Renaissance Lords, the Nature and Hunting Museum, and the World of Rural Life in the cellars. More than 30 rooms to see, from the cellars to the keep.

Built in 1957, this church – perhaps not what you would expect to find in these parts – demonstrates the spiritual wealth of the Christian East. The sanctuary’s frescoes and Pantocrator are the work of Léon Raffin. The others in the church and crypt are by Rallis Kopsidis and Georges Chochlidakis.

Lorette Cave in Rochefort

Rue du Monastère, 65 • 5590 Chevetogne +32 83 21 17 63 • www.monasterechevetogne.com

Church of Saint-Hadelin in Celles (Houyet)

On this site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to five children during the winter of 1932-33, the Beauraing Sanctuaries welcome several thousand pilgrims every year. Guided tour of the Sanctuaries organised on request. Rue de l’Aubépine, 6 5570 Beauraing +32 82 71 12 18 www.sanctuairesdebeauraing.be,

This is one of the most beautiful early Romanesque churches in the country, listed among Wallonia’s most important heritage. Its impressive defence tower, whitewashed interior, and wooden ceiling typical of early Romanesque churches will impress any visitor. Place de l’Église 5561 Houyet (Celles) +32 497 30 73 34 www.openchurches.be/church_ detail.asp?churchID=300

You go down into this cave along a long, steep path leading to the great Sabbat Chamber: 60 m below ground, an allaround sound and light show is offered for visitors, while a small balloon is released to provide a better appreciation of the height of the chamber. Drève de Lorette 5580 Rochefort +3284212080 www.grotte-de-han.be

2017

ARDENNES [museums and tourist sites]

NOT TO BE MISSED Chevetogne Provincial Estate (Ciney)

Languiller House interpretation centre in Gedinne

The Chevetogne Natural History Museum (Ciney)

In its pleasant, modern setting, throughout the year this lively interpretation centre offers varied exhibitions on local life, regional curiosities, historical points of interest and the natural environment. The centre of the cultural life of Gedinne, it also hosts various artistic shows and exhibitions.

Since 2017, the mysterious attic of Chevetogne Castle has hosted a new facility – half museum, half adventure land. It is a magical place where children aged between six and 12 are guided by a team of educators to create and become their own heroes and develop their imagination. Splendid décor and unusual activities and experiences: something new to discover.

Place Languillier, 7 • 5575 Gedinne +32 61 58 74 84 • www.conseilculturelgedinne.be

A huge area open for walking, this 600 hectare park offers an extensive leisure infrastructure: multisports courts and pitches (nine tennis courts, a mini-golf course, three basketball courts, a futsal pitch, a football pitch and a ministadium), an open air swimming pool, a riding school and a motel-restaurant. There is a farm and – a particular feature of the estate – a number of themed playgrounds: Noah’s Ark, the Trojan Horse, the Goldmine, etc. An animal park and various gardens await nature lovers. The estate also offers a wide range of events throughout the tourist season.

Castle of the Chevetogne Provincial Estate Rue des Pîrchamps, 1 • 5590 Chevetogne +32 83 68 72 11 • www.domainedechevetogne.be

OTHER SIGHTS Nature Extraordinary Museum – NEM in Chevetogne (Ciney)

Heritage Museums: History of the Earth and Man, and Héritage 14-18 in Goesnes (Ohey)

Chevetogne Provincial Estate 5590 Chevetogne +32 83 68 72 11 • www.domainedechevetogne.be

FIRM FAVOURITES The Monopoli Museum in Barsy-Flostoy (Havelange) This unusual museum shows the curiosities of nature both real and imagined by men in the form of myths: a “cabinet of fear” with wolves and the Minotaur, mermaids from the south seas, a chamber of wonders, legends linked to nature, etc. Chevetogne Provincial Estate 5590 Chevetogne +32 83 68 72 46 • www.domainedechevetogne.be

This surprising museum offers a collection of mechanical and electrical automata. They were put in display cases to attract the attention of passers by or as curiosities: singing birds, animated dolls and others. In the first room, the horse-drawn carriage museum also includes some amazing pieces. Rue du Musée, 9 • 5370 Barsy-Flostoy +32 83 61 24 70 • www.musee-monopoli.be

Two museums on one site: “History of the Earth and Man” retraces the history of the region, with old fossils going back three billion years, prehistoric objects and then Gallo-Roman and Medieval ones: our ancestors’ tools. The “Héritage 14-18” museum presents memorabilia from the Great War. Chemin de Tahier, 72 • 5353 Goesnes +32 85 41 37 48 museeheritagedegoesnes.eklablog.com www.domainedechevetogne.be/fr/mhin

“Han 1900” in Han-sur-Lesse (Rochefort)

Values of the Ardennes Wellness Authenticity Imagination Sharing

This museum presents about sixty old crafts on a site covering more than 1,000 m2 along with an impressive collection of tools

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

and anvils from the last century. More than 100 mannequins in 1900 period dress trace the life of craftsmen, with sound effects.

“La Glycine” gallery in Vresse-sur-Semois

Rue des Grottes, 14 • 5580 Han-sur-Lesse +32 84 34 59 08 • www.maison-viepaysanne.be

Railway and Stone Centre in Jemelle (Rochefort)

To be discovered at

www.visitardenne.com/ all-access

Reconstructions providing dramatic settings for objects and tools recreate the atmosphere of the old railways. The second section of this centre presents the limestone quarrying and lime-making industry.

This art gallery offers exhibitions from April to December based on works by regional artists. Admission free.

Avenue de Ninove, 11 • 5580 Jemelle +32 84 22 36 01 • www.centredurailetdelapierre.be

Rue Albert Raty, 83 • 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois +32 61 29 28 27 www.vresse-sur-semois.be/loisirs/tourisme/ culture/la-galerie-la-glycine

Rochefort tourist train

The Locomotive in Vresse-sur-Semois

Cross-border routes • Legends • Rimbaud-Verlaine • Smugglers’ circuit • Kayaking and canoeing on the Semois • Fortifications • Abbeys • By boat, the Meuse and you

The Bocq railway in Ciney, Spontin and Purnode (Yvoir) This route offers a glimpse of the sites of interest in Rochefort, where Lorette cave, the Saint-Jean cross, Comtes Castle, the Rond du Roi view, the velodrome, the Malagne Archéoparc and the Roches Park.

Discover the superb life-size reconstruction, entirely in wood, of the famous steam locomotive “Le Belge”, which was the first built in Belgium and in continental Europe. Admission free.

Rue de Behogne, 5 • 5580 Rochefort +32 84 21 25 37 www.rochefort.be/loisirs-et-tourisme/visiter-etdecouvrir/TrainTouristique

Rue Albert Raty • 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois +32 61 29 28 27 www.vresse-sur-semois.be/loisirs/tourisme/ culture/locobelge

Vresse-sur-Semois School art interpretation centre

La Besace Ecomuseum in Wanlin (Houyet)

This tourist train offers a picturesque trip with the old-fashioned charm of a steam train or railcar (depending on timetable). You can hop on and off as you like. Chaussée de Dinant, 1 (Gare de Spontin) 5530 Spontin • +32 83 48 01 01 www.cfbocq.be

This museum brings together 300 works, largely paintings, by local and regional artists of the “Vresse school”. Audioguides and audiovisual screens complete the visit. Accessible to people with reduced mobility. Rue Albert Raty, 112a • 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois +32 61 58 92 99 • www.fondation-chaidron.com

This museum shows the life of local people and craftsmen at Wanlin in 1900 through workshops on the forest and the land: agriculture, the bakery, the water mill, the workshops of the clog-maker and the wheelwright, old-fashioned games and even a hairdresser’s salon. Rue du Château, 36 • 5564 Wanlin +32 82 66 69 65 • www.labesace.net 37

2017

ARDENNES [landscapes and villages]

NOT TO BE MISSED Gros-Fays

FIRM FAVOURITES Chardeneux

Envol area viewpoint: 50.113021, 5.010111 Rue d’Esclaye, 5573 Martouzin Froidfontaine viewpoint: 50.061281, 5.006214 Rue des Aulnais, 5570 Beauraing Belvédère viewpoint: 50.134917, 5.197167 Rue du Point de vue, 5580 Rochefort

The village consists of traditional slate houses. Here you can admire its 17th-C. fortified farmhouse, the church, the old brewery, the mill and its wealth of small pieces of heritage. Perched on the slope of a hill, it offers excellent views over the Semois valley.

The octagonal spire flanked by four pinnacles of the Romanesque church draws visitors to the small square from where charming little streets full of flowers radiate outwards. The 18th and 19th century Condroz buildings provide remarkable harmony, dominated by the grey and black shades of the limestone and slate.

Laforêt

Mozet

Griffaloux viewpoint: 50.123533, 5.210467 Also accessible using the free app “Explore Val de Lesse” – Wavreille circuit – landscapes and villages roadbook. Houyet viewpoint: 50.195, 5.006 It is on one of the circuits included on the walks map. Millénaire tower viewpoint: 49.951000, 4.845583 Gedinne Jambon de la Semois viewpoint: 49.882361, 4.901361 Membre Naglémont viewpoint: 49.857833, 4.965028 Mouzaive La Croix viewpoint: 49.862750, 4.879667 Bohan Saint-Jean Wood viewpoint: 49.870583, 4.990194 Gros-Fays

Standing amid fields where tobacco used to be grown, Laforêt has small slate farm buildings grouped alongside two parallel roads around the church. It is characterised by wide roofs of faisiaux (misshapen pieces of waste slate fixed on a bed clay laid over planks of split oak), lucky hearts on the barns and bulls-eye windows in the slate roofs.

Perched on a summit, the church dedicated to Saint Lambert is at the heart of this village with its medieval allure, nestling deep in the hills of Condroz. The old centre is characterised by pretty limestone houses topped with slate. Two imposing farmhouses with closed courtyards (one with a Romanesque tower) used to be centres of agricultural activity.

Gesves viewpoint: 50.421513, 5.033954

Celles

Thon-Samson

Chardeneux viewpoint: 50.369379, 5.362573

Champs du Bois viewpoint: 50.306435, 5.239663 Hamois Havelange viewpoint: 50.391656, 5.223956 Barsy viewpoint: 50.377098, 5.146708 Schaltin

THE PRETTIEST VILLAGES IN WALLONIA www.beauxvillages.be

Surrounded by four hills, the origins of Celles go back to ancient times. On the hill dominating the collegiate church, a masterpiece of Romanesque art, stands the chapel of Saint-Hadelin. Little squares around the church and traditional limestone houses with flowers and trees bring charm and conviviality.

The villages of Thon and Samson each show their own urban features and heritage. The old centre of Thon is strung out along the road linking it with Samson and the plateaux overlooked by the church and the fortified farmhouse. Samson is dominated by the ruins of the old castle, listed since 1944, near the Samson Rocks.

a land of

authenticity Belgium France Luxembourg

In the depth of nature, in the heart of wildlife Info :

www.grotte-de-han.be

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ARDENNES [gardens and animal parks]

NOT TO BE MISSED

OTHER SIGHTS

Animal park in Han-sur-Lesse (Rochefort)

The Doneu ostrich farm in Buissonville (Rochefort)

La Chiquetterie wild plant garden in Nafraiture (Vresse-sur-Semois)

This animal park, chosen as the “best in Belgium” in 2015, offers 250 acres of nature presenting various species from our area in their natural surroundings. Hides, observatories and safari vehicles give visitors the chance to observe the animals close up in conditions of semi-freedom. The most important include wolves, brown bears, lynxes, European bison and wolverines. There are also eagle owls, red deer, snowy owls, white storks, griffon vultures, ibex, reindeer and more.

This ostrich farm, with more than 100 of the giant birds, shows the life and natural environment of these creatures and their life in captivity. The shop offers fresh and cured ostrich meat, eggs, feathers, skins and leather.

After visiting the wild and medicinal plant garden, enthusiasts can taste the traditionally made products in the tea room of the family business or buy them in the shop. They include syrups, liqueurs, teas, plants, goat’s cheese, shampoos and creams.

Rue du Doneu, 5 5580 Rochefort +32 83 68 85 96 www.autrucheriedudoneu.be

Rue d’Houdremont, 38 5550 Nafraiture +32 61 50 11 33 www.lachiquetterie.be

Rue Joseph Lamotte, 2 5580 Han-sur-Lesse +32 84 37 72 13 www.grotte-de-han.be

Hiboux Garden in Graide (Bièvre)

Bison Ranch in Orchimont (Vresse-sur-Semois)

The team presents birds of prey and their hunting techniques with flight and feeding demonstrations. Activities including falconry workshops, walks with birds of prey, a night-time show and a photography workshop can be booked in advance.

This organic farm rears 200 bison. The guided tours on a trailer take visitors into a Western-style site where they will find not only the bison but also an Native American village, a gold mine and geysers. Group visits and special shows can be booked in advance.

Vôye du Sclassin, 47 5555 Graide +32 486 51 88 36 www.jardindeshiboux.be

Rue d’Angleterre, 56 5550 Orchimont +32 475 38 22 52 www.bisonranchorchimont.com

FIRM FAVOURITES Lavaux-Sainte-Anne Castle wetland (Rochefort)

This biotope has been reconstructed to recreate a typical ecosystem of the Famenne countryside as it was at the end of the 19th C. Three distinct parts – the lake, the marsh and the meadow – are important havens for plants, insects, birds, including threatened species. This green reserve can be discovered in the course of a 20-minute walk. Rue du Château, 8 5580 Lavaux-Ste-Anne (Rochefort) +32 84 38 83 62 www.chateau-lavaux.com

WELLNESS

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

[sporting activities]

NOT TO BE MISSED Récréalle – Semois kayaking in Alle-sur-Semois, Bohan, Membre (Vresse-sur-Semois)

OTHER SIGHTS La Vanne kayaks in Alle-sur-Semois (Vresse-sur-Semois)

delight the whole family. An ideal activity with children aged between six and 12. Place Monseu, 23 5590 Ciney +32 86 40 19 22 www.mesaventures.be

Farm Golf at the Ferme de la Bourgade in Heure-enFamenne (Somme-Leuze)

Tempted by a relaxed family day in the open air? Récréalle offers you a descent of the Semois in single- and two-seater kayaks or family canoes. Four routes (of 7, 12, 22 and 27 kilometres) are offered by an enthusiastic team. To vary the fun, combine kayaking with other activities (orienteering, bowling, mountain biking, Segways) and various types of refreshments (dish of the day or stone griddle). Rue Léon Henrard, 16 5550 Alle-sur-Semois +32 61 50 03 81 www.recrealle.com

Discover the beauty of the Ardennes landscapes along the Semois with your family. Four routes are offered, from 7 to 20 km, in single- and two-seater kayaks. Booking recommended. Rue Léon Henrard, 10 5550 Alle +32 61 50 13 87 www.kayakslavanne.be

L’Ami Pierre kayaks in Alle-sur-Semois (Vresse-sur-Semois)

A ten-hole course over distances between 100 m and 300 m on rather irregular terrain where cows sometimes graze. Along with a heavier club and a larger ball, these are the features of “farm golf”. You play on a working farm where you can also taste fresh products. Booking essential.

FIRM FAVOURITES

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

When there is snow around, the following cross-country skiing courses await you:

Croix-Scaille courses in Louette-Saint-Pierre (Gedinne) Altitude 420-500 m 2.4 – 6.5 – 12 – 16 km +32 472 09 05 27 (ski chalet) +32 61 58 74 84 (Tourist Office) officedutourisme.gedinne@skynet.be www.actutourisme-gedinne.be

Snowpark Course in Oignies-en-Thiérache (Viroinval)

Four routes are offered for a relaxed day on the Semois amid the region’s wonderful landscapes in comfortable kayaks provided with information packs. With free twoway shuttle. Rue de Liboichant, 11 5550 Alle +32 61 50 03 67 www.amipierre.be

Cap Semois in Vresse-sur-Semois

“My enchanter adventures”: six game walks (Ciney, Hamois, Miécret, Nettinne, Gesves and Goesnes)

Altitude 400 m Three routes +32 60 39 0316

Amid superb natural landscape, Cap Semois offers various opportunities to get out and have fun: in kayaks (single- or two-seater, on three routes), in canoes, on rafts and on mountain bikes. Free shuttle. School and groups: book in advance.

Conrad Courses in Membre-sur-Semois (Vresse) Altitude 400 m 3 – 6 – 8 km +32 61 50 17 87

Full list at www.catpw.be/FR/ski.htm

Moressée, 10 5377 Heure-en-Famenne +32 86 21 13 60 www.golffermier.be

Rue du Perré, 79-80 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois +32 477 58 20 62 www.capsemois.be

Come and help the enchanter Olibrius against the sorcerer Condruza. These six walks full of traps, quizzes and games will 41

2017

ARDENNES [accommodation]

NOT TO BE MISSED

Vencimont Mill (Gedinne)

UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATION

Rue J. Lamotte, 2 5580 Han-sur-Lesse +32 84 37 72 13 www.grotte-de-han.be/fr/trappeur-infos-etreservations

Éprave Vieux Moulin Estate (Rochefort)

tage of all the other activities on the estate. It is essential to book at least two weeks before your stay.

Sleeping in a gipsy caravan in Membre-sur-Semois (Vresse-sur-Semois) The mill, drawing its power from the waters of the Houille, fell silent in 1970 but was revived in 2016. The spelt flour produced here supplies the craft bakery also established in the mill, promising unforgettable breakfasts. Rue Grande, 95 5575 Vencimont +32 471 02 32 22 www.moulindevencimont.be

Trapper Nights at the Grottes de Han Estate (Rochefort)

A few metres from the peaceful waters of the Semois, find refuge in a warm little romantic paradise provided by an old gipsy caravan. Authentically restored with the addition of all modern comforts (even an Italian-style shower), this caravan, which has travelled so much, invites you to join it in its well-deserved rest. Rue du Coin, 17 5550 Membre-sur-Semois +32 61 50 00 01 www.les-alisiers.be/fr/dormir-dans-une-roulottegite.html?IDC=579

6 km from Rochefort, this 15th C. former mill, now thoroughly restored, offers eight bedrooms and a suite with understated luxury with modern adaptations. The renovation has respected the original volumes and materials. The mill restaurant offers refined French cuisine. Rue de l'Aujoule, 51 5580 Éprave +32 84 37 73 18 www.eprave.com

Sleeping with bears, although fortunately not actually in range of their claws, offers you the chance to celebrate a special event or a romantic night somewhere different. Rediscover the simplicity of the life of the pioneers in a cabin hidden in the middle of a 250 ha animal park. Alone in the closed park you hear the calls of animals as they rise during the evening and are woken by birdsong in the morning. A truly authentic experience to share in small groups of friends or as a family. Before or after your night, you have the chance to take advan-

ENCHANTMENT

Download our “campsites” pack www.paysdesvallees.be

destinationâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;THE VALLEY COUNTRY

2017

ARDENNES [events]

NOT TO BE MISSED Rochefort Festival of Laughter

FIRM FAVOURITES Méan Cheese Route Festival – 17 September For 17 years, a route combining gastronomy and music has been offering the chance to make a journey through the wealth of local agriculture and its products on the third Sunday in September. Conviviality, encounters, quality, culinary discoveries and rural values are the key words for this great festival. Visits to cheese makers, a market, tastings and musical shows await you in Maffe and the hamlet of Gros-Chêne. Condroz-Famenne Tourist Centre +32 86 40 19 22 • www.routedufromage.be

Since 1981, this international event has brought the greatest names in humour to the stage in the Raymond Devos Hall, but it also allows you to discover newcomers, some of whom go on to become stars. Dany Boon, Yolande Moreau, Michel Boujenah, Marc Herman, Virginie Hocq and many others have taken their first steps on the boards of the Roches Rochefort Cultural Centre. The festival always takes place around Ascension Day, and in 2017 will run from 11 to 28 May. For three weeks, the town’s life is marked by shows, street theatre, culinary events, the Comic Strip Forum, the Laughter Market, the craft market, etc. In autumn, a mini-festival is organised to honour Belgian artists. Avenue d’Alost, 5 • 5580 Rochefort +32 84 22 10 83

OTHER EVENTS The Ardennes region may have wilder, starker landscapes and more scattered settlements but its people know how to have fun! This is proved by the famous and internationally renowned Rochefort Laughter Festival, the region’s major event. It is not the only enjoyment to be had: culinary and garden events, historical reconstructions, music festivals and sports meetings enliven the life of the Ardennes offering fantastic opportunities for visitors to join in. A full events diary is available at www.paysdesvallees.be. You can also get it from the various Tourist Offices.

Namur Ardennes tourist rally 27 May

At Ciney Expo: 1st International Adventure and Board Sports Show 18 and 19 May

This fun, cross-country car rally roams the villages of Bièvre, Gedinne and Vressesour-Semois, taking place one Saturday in May. The participants set off after a breakfast included in the entry fee (along with lunch and a regional beer) and they spread out following the roadbook, with questions to solve along the 90-km route. Free for children aged under six. The winners receive prizes.

Life at Ciney Expo is marked by its specialist shows (wines, bric-a-brac, Truckshow, Décojardin, Rétromoteur, Militaria, etc.), but in 2017 there is a new date: an event devoted to “nature and adventure” activities practised by those not interested in competing or breaking records. All the opportunities for doing these sports in Belgium or abroad will be on offer. You will be able to find out about the right activity for you, how much it costs and what equipment is needed. It will also be a chance to discover new options involving specific vehicles. The information will be completed with various talks.

Regional information office Rue Albert Raty, 83 • 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois +32 61 29 28 27 • www.ardenne-namuroise.be

Ciney Expo • Rue du Marché couvert, 3 +32 80 40 05 99 • 5590 Ciney www.cineyexpo.be

More events at www.paysdesvallees.be under the “Activities” heading

The Malagne “Gallo-Roman Event” in the Rochefort Archéoparc 22 and 23 July On these dates, a series of shows and historical reconstructions will take place on this site, which contains traces of a huge Gallo-Roman farm. In the programme: craftspeople at work with old-fashioned techniques, the Roman legion on manoeuvres, demonstrations of horse-riding and shooting Roman weapons, and an activity village for children. The site also includes permanent reconstructions of animal rearing and vegetable gardens designed in the old-fashioned way and offers the chance to discover how our Gallo-Roman ancestors lived. Rue du Coirbois, 85 • 5580 Rochefort +32 84 22 21 03 • www.malagne.be

The “Féerie des Genêts” in Gedinne – 28 May Every year, the town of Gedinne celebrates a particular theme with a grand parade of floats decorated with broom. The “Fairy of the Day” is chosen two days before at a dinner and show where the prettiest girls in Wallonia dispute the coveted title of “Queen of the Broom”. Good humour is assured… +32 478 53 18 86

destinationâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;THE VALLEY COUNTRY

2017

ARDENNES [local products and cuisine]

RESTAURANTS NOT TO BE MISSED Le Fou est belge Gault et Millau 17/20 1 Michelin star

Route de Givet, 24 5377 Heure-en-Famenne

Lemonnier

Gault et Millau 17/20

Rue Baronne Lemonnier, 82 5580 Lavaux-Sainte-Anne

La Gare d’Hamois

Le Charme de la Semois Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue de Liboichant, 12 5550 Alle

Auberge des Pérées

Recommended by Gault et Millau Rue des Pairees, 37 5580 Rochefort

97 Rue Pervienne

Recommended by Gault et Millau Rue Piervenne, 97 5590 Ciney

Chaussée de Liège, 45 5360 Hamois

TWO TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS NOT TO BE MISSED

La Calèche

The Samson Cheese Factory in Goyet

Gault et Millau 14/20

Tobacco production in the Ardennes

Rue de Behogne, 46 – 5580 Rochefort 5580 Rochefort

Tobacco has been grown in the Ardennes since Louis XIV’s reign and the activity really developed between 1840 and 1952. At its peak there were about a thousand planters but today there are only three producers left. However, thanks to e-commerce, the particular quality of Belgian tobacco resulting from the climate of the Ardennes is attracting renewed international interest. www.ardenne-namuroise.be

Du Four à la Table Gault et Millau 14/20 Rue des Platanes, 16 5580 Villers-sur-Lesse

Lou Fèrri

Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue de la Station, 140A 5370 Havelange

L’Aubergesves Gault et Millau 13/20 Pourrain, 4 5340 Gesves

Le Comptoir du Goût Gault et Millau 13/20 Rue du Commerce, 121 5590 Ciney

The top cheesemaker in Belgium in 2014, Vincent Verleyen makes almost 40 homemade cheeses with raw milk. These cheeses are sold in the attached shop alongside an extensive range of other milk and pork products from all over Europe. The business, taken over by its current owner in 2011, received the Alfers Award for taken-over firms in 2016. The owner has concentrated on preserving the quality of the cheeses created by his predecessors, offering variants and regularly creating new cheeses. Chée de Gramptinne 37 5340 Gesves +32 81 58 36 66 www.fromageriedusamson.com

destination THE VALLEY COUNTRY

More than 30 activities to choose from and exceptional events “Cruises“ and “Adventures” to discover on www.dinant-evasion.be DINANT EVASION s.a. | Place Baudouin 1er, n°2 - 5500 Dinant | 082 22 43 97 | info@dinant-evasion.be

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