The best walks and hikes around Belgium

Belgium offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from the rolling hills and dense forests of the Ardennes to the unique heathlands and river valleys. You can explore untouched wilderness in the High Fens, follow winding rivers like the Semois, or discover the distinct landscapes of the Hoge Kempen National Park with its heathlands and former mining hills. The country's varied terrain ensures there's something for every preference.

While komoot currently lists several easy routes, Belgium's diverse landscape, particularly in the Ardennes, offers more challenging options. For instance, the 16-kilometer hike around Nisramont Lake in the National Park Les Deux Ourthes features steep hills. The Rochehaut Ladders Trail is also known as a challenging 5 km loop with metal ladders and stunning views over the Semois Valley.

Yes, Belgium has many trails suitable for families. The Ninglinspo Trail, often described as Belgium's only mountain river, offers a picturesque hike with waterfalls and rocky paths that can be an exciting adventure for children. Many regions, including parts of the Ardennes and Hoge Kempen National Park, also feature well-maintained paths perfect for a family outing.

Absolutely. For those seeking longer adventures, Belgium offers several notable long-distance routes. The GR16 trail follows the scenic Semois River, and the Escapardenne Eislek Trail is a 106 km 'best quality trail' that crosses diverse countryside between Belgium and Luxembourg. Hoge Kempen National Park also features a scenic 100-kilometer long-distance route.

Belgium's varied topography provides numerous stunning viewpoints. In the Semois Valley, don't miss 'Tombeau du Géant' (Giant's Tomb) and 'Le Jambon de la Semois' for panoramic views of the river's meanders. Terhills within Hoge Kempen National Park offers 'mountains and lakes' scenery with expansive vistas. The Napoleon's Nose Walk in the Warche Valley also provides great views of Reinhardstein Castle.

Beyond the general landscapes, Belgium boasts unique natural attractions. The Ninglinspo Valley is famous for its cascades and being Belgium's only mountain river. You can also explore 'Le Fondry des Chiens,' a 20-meter-deep sinkhole in the Viroin-Hermeton nature park, or the distinctive bogs and moors of the High Fens, often traversed on wooden boardwalks.

Spring and autumn are generally considered ideal for hiking in Belgium, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, especially in the Ardennes. Winter hiking is also possible, particularly in areas like the High Fens, which transform into a unique snowy landscape.

Yes, many regions in Belgium offer excellent circular hiking routes. Hoge Kempen National Park alone features 88 loop-shaped walks, and the Bouillon region is known for its '14 panorama route of Bouillon,' which is a circular trail. These loops allow you to start and end your hike in the same location, often passing through diverse landscapes.

Yes, several Belgian hikes combine natural beauty with historical interest. A notable example is a hike around Château de Veves, which passes through charming villages and the beautiful rock formations of Parc de Furfooz. The Bouillon Castle area also features a hiking trail that offers views of the fortress and the Semois River.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Belgium, with an average score of 5.0 stars based on available feedback. Hikers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from serene forests and winding rivers to unique moorlands, as well as the well-maintained trail networks that cater to various skill levels.