Are you itching for an adventure but don’t want to venture too far from home? Look no further than the breathtaking Ardennes region! Situated close to the North of France, this charming area offers a delightful road trip destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its stunning lakes, lush forests, and enchanting medieval villages, the Ardennes is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Eau d’Heure lakes
Our journey began at the picturesque Eau d’Heure lakes. Created by the Plate Taille dam, these artificial lakes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the lake, engage in exhilarating water sports, or try your hand at tree climbing. We stayed at the lake’s edge, where the view of the dam and the serene surroundings made for a memorable experience.
Bouillon
Next on our itinerary was the charming village of Bouillon. Nestled amidst the Semois river, Bouillon boasts a majestic castle that overlooks the town. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the village and its splendid forest trails. We found a peaceful camping spot near the castle, right by the edge of the Semois river. The restaurants along the riverbank offer a picturesque setting to enjoy a delightful meal.
Herbeumont
Herbeumont, a tiny village surrounded by the Semois river, captured our hearts with its castle ruins and breathtaking views. Climb up the steep hill to reach the castle and be rewarded with panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the viaduct, which gracefully spans the river. We spent the night at the motorhome area, a former train station platform, and savored the tranquility of this hidden gem.
Forest walk to discover edible wild plants
One of the highlights of our trip was a guided tour with Barbara from “Saveurs de la forêt”. As we delved into the forest, Barbara introduced us to the wonders of edible wild plants. This eye-opening experience made us reflect on our diet and lifestyle choices. We even contemplated adding nettles to our soup and edible flowers to our plates! Unfortunately, Barbara has since stopped her activities, but we encourage you to seek out similar experiences and let us know in the comments if you find any.
Orval Abbey visit
Our next stop was the remarkable Orval Abbey. Although some areas were closed due to ongoing renovations, we still enjoyed exploring this historic site. We even managed to bring home a pack of freshly brewed beer from the abbey brewery. The abbey’s tranquil ambiance and rich heritage left a lasting impression on us.
Saint-Hubert
In the town of Saint-Hubert, we found solace in the peaceful surroundings of the Fourneau Saint Michel area, nestled beside a gentle stream. This idyllic spot served as an excellent starting point for our forest walks and hikes. The tranquility of the area, despite its proximity to a busy road, offered a refreshing escape into nature.
Dinant
Our last day took us to the enchanting city of Dinant. Perched on the banks of the Meuse river, this picturesque town is dominated by its majestic citadel. Visiting Dinant with a motorhome can be a challenge, but parking near the citadel allows you to explore the city with ease. Take a cable car ride to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and visit the citadel. The city itself offers numerous attractions, including the stunning church, the magnificent La Merveilleuse cave, and the adventurous Lesse river for canoeing and kayaking.
Chooz, France
As our journey continued, we crossed back into France and arrived in Chooz, located in the French Ardennes. Before heading back home, we indulged ourselves in some delicious Belgian fries at chez Fernande. We found a lovely spot by the river to spend the night in Chooz, where a cycling and walking path along the Meuse river provided the perfect opportunity for exploration. Take note, though, that the view is slightly marred by the presence of a nuclear power station.
Val Joly, France
Our final destination was Val Joly, a leisure center nestled around an artificial lake. Apart from offering a free motorhome area, Val Joly provides a plethora of activities such as swimming, water sports, horse riding, and tree climbing. The motorhome area, although slightly sloped, offers a stunning view of the lake. As we gazed out across the water, we were delighted to spot horses and ponies grazing peacefully in nearby pastures.
Conclusion
Our road trip through the Ardennes was a rejuvenating experience, allowing us to reconnect with the joy of traveling in a van. From the magnificent natural landscapes to the fascinating historical sites, the Ardennes will captivate your heart and stir your wanderlust. For more exciting road trip adventures, don’t miss out on our articles about Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, and our epic journey through Scotland. Bon voyage!
