Take a deep breath of fresh air and immerse yourself in the heart of the Ardennes, a true paradise for hiking lovers.
Whether you are a fan of family outings, loop circuits ou roaming over several daysThis region promises you unforgettable moments. between nature, heritage and serenity.
Why hike in the Ardennes?
An exceptional natural setting:
Imagine yourself walking through a dense forest, alongside shimmering lakes and enjoying spectacular views of verdant valleys.
The Ardennes are an invitation to discovery and contemplation.
Routes for all skill levels:
Whether you are a novice or an experienced hiker, the marked trails adapt to your desires: from family walks to sporting routes.
A rich heritage:
Explore paths steeped in history, discover picturesque villages and be amazed by the treasures of the Ardennes' natural and cultural heritage.
Must-see routes for your hikes
For a multi-day hike on a long-distance hiking trail (GR)
The GR 654 or Way of St. James of Compostela, between Rocroi to the north and Asfeld to the south.
The GR 14, between Bouillon (Belgium) to the north and Chatel-Chéhéry to the south.
The GR 16 or GR of the Semoy/Semois, between Les Hautes-Rivières and Lac des Vieilles-Forges.
For a loop hiking trail lasting a few hours
These routes will take you back to your starting point. ideal for a peaceful day discovering the landscapes and heritage of the Ardennes and its inhabitants.
From 4 to 22 kmfor a few hours or for a full day, with different levels of difficultyHere you will find the hike that matches your expectations and your current motivation.
The benefits of hiking
- For the body : Move at your own pace and enjoy a gentle and revitalizing physical activity.
- For the mind: Disconnect from everyday life and let yourself be enveloped by the calm and beauty of the landscapes.
- For the environment: Adopt a sustainable tourism model that respects nature and its inhabitants.
The Ardennes, a land of trail running
With its vast forests, deep valleys and unspoiled landscapes, the Bulge are a paradise for lovers of trail runningFrom beginners to experienced runners, everyone can find what they're looking for among the different options. trail areas of the department.
The Ardennes offer varied career paths : technical singletrack, gradual changes in elevation, sections through undergrowth or along rivers and streams like the Meuse or the Semoy.
Throughout the year, many sport events (trail running, nature races, ultra-trails) bring the region to life, like theAymon Trail or Ardennes Mega Trail, two iconic events to discover the region in a different way.
F.A.Q
1. What are the best hiking trails in the Ardennes?
The best hiking route is the one that suits you best. Our site indicates the starting point that you can point to on the map of the Ardennes. It also informs you the number of kilometersWithin each itinerary, you will also find information on the elevation change and the theme. You will also be able to see a few photos. This will help you decide on the best choice for you.
2. Are hikes in the Ardennes suitable for families?
Not all hikes in the Ardennes are suitable for families with children. On average, it is estimated thatA child will be able to walk 5 to 6 kilometers during a hike. He will also It's important to look at the elevation gain and the level of difficulty. indicated. Some trails may be more interesting to children when there is something to observe, such as the birds around Lake Baironor to do, like recomposing a lost poem by Rimbaud in Chuffilly-Roche.
3. Where can I find information on hiking trails?
On our website, we offer you a selection of marked trails. This means that people regularly come to check their usability.
Your presence will not disturb the owners of the trails as they have accepted the passage of hikers on their land.
This information is very important and is not found on all websites.
You can also purchase guidebooks in bookstores or in the tourist offices if you wish to follow these trails independently, and with paper maps.
4. What equipment is needed for a successful hike?
On a hike, good shoes are necessary to prevent ankle sprains as much as possible and to cushion shocks to protect your joints.
It is also suitable to dress according to the weather, to take water et food depending on the length of your journey.
We advise staying on the trails and Wear appropriate clothing in the forest to avoid tick bites.
Walking sticks are sometimes used by hikers but are not essential for a successful outing.
It is also advisable to Download the .gpx track of the route to your mobile phone.
5. Are there any hikes for athletes in the Ardennes?
Experienced athletes will appreciate hikes that include a significant elevation change.
The sector of the Meuse and Semoy Valley for example is perfectly suitable.
6. What is the best time of year to hike in the Ardennes?
From April to September, The Ardennes are ideal for welcoming hikers.
During the hunting season, hiking is still possible but It is imperative to find out about hunting days of the sector concerned.
Furthermore, within the boundaries of the Ardennes Regional Natural Park, the "Quietude Attitude" program will inform you about protected sites which cannot always accommodate hikers, in order to protect fragile fauna and flora.
7. Are dogs allowed on hiking trails?
Throughout the year, You must keep your dogs under supervision during your walks in the forest; They must not be more than 100 meters away from you. Between April 15th and June 30th, the regulations are stricter: You must keep your dogs on a leash when you are outside of a forest path. Forest paths include roads, tracks, and forest trails (long-distance hiking trails or GR trails, walking paths, etc.).
This rule aims to prevent your dogs from attacking birds or other animal species and to promote the repopulation of this wildlife.
Thanks to their highly developed sense of smell, dogs can easily locate newborns in the forest as well as birds nesting on the ground in open areas. Their mere presence can disturb and stress forest animals that are particularly sensitive during this period characterized by the start of the mammal birthing season; dogs would then jeopardize the reproduction of some of this wildlife.
Urban artist within the perimeter of the Ardennes Regional Natural Park, the "Quietude Attitude" program will inform you about protected sites.
Sometimes it is mandatory to keep your dog on a leash all year round and sometimes it is not possible to enter a heavily protected area with your dog, even on a leash.
