This feudal castle remains proudly overlooking the Ourthe valley, planted firmly on its rocky spur. A symbol of the region, it whisks visitors off to follow in the footsteps of knights. Mount your horses!

Although only ruins remain today, the castle has lost none of its splendour and, most importantly, still has all the main features that can give you a taste of its medieval history. The towers, loopholes and dungeons, as well as the different rooms you can explore, some built into the rock itself, will take you on a journey back in time. Standing on a site first settled in the Neolithic era, this 9th century castle also gives you a magnificent view of the city and its surroundings. Why not come and look around for a glimpse back in time?

Echoes of the Era of Lords and Ladies

Do you dream of being transported for a day to the fascinating medieval world of fortune tellers, lords, master falconers and jubilant crowds? Well, then you’re in luck! The castle now hosts a multitude of activities and shows on special days or weekends: falconry shows, archery, medieval crafts, sound and light shows, Halloween events, fireworks and more. There’s something to delight every visitor, young or old! There are even whispers that on certain evenings, as night falls, the ghost of Countess Berthe de La Roche can be seen roaming the castle ruins in the exact place where she died... You’ve been warned!

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An impressive monument, not to be missed. Honouring the Battle of the Bulge, which took place in Bastogne, this unmissable memorial also offers incredible panoramic views.

A moving and awe-inspiring place. The site has a poignant significance. The Mardasson Memorial honours the memory of the 76,000 American soldiers who fell on Belgian soil during the Battle of the Bulge, a major offensive in the Second World War. Inaugurated in 1950, the monument takes the shape of a five-pointed star, each point measuring 31 metres long. You can read the story of the battle engraved in gold letters on the walls of the open gallery. Under the memorial is a crypt with mosaic walls created by Fernand Léger. One of the world’s unique works of art that represents the Jewish,Catholic and Protestant faiths.

Between heaven and earth

The Mardasson Memorial is situated on a hill just 2 km from the centre of Bastogne. A staircase leads up to the covered walkway. From there you can take in the breathtakingpanoramic views of the surrounding area.

Are you fascinated by history? Why not complement your visit to the Mardasson Memorial with a visit to the beautiful and moving War Museum next door, which brings the Second World War to life in an interactive way.

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One of the most impressive basilicas in Europe is right here in the Ardennes! A remarkable symbol of Wallonia’s cultural heritage, the majestic Saint Hubert Basilica is a famous pilgrimage site for animal lovers.

Its imposing silhouette stands out against the wooded Ardennes landscape, a proud symbol steeped in history. Built in the 16th century, the basilica is a pilgrimage site in honour of Saint Hubert, the patron saint of the Ardennes, hunters, foresters and butchers. It is impossible not to be impressed by the magnificent architecture, which mixes the abundant Gothic style with Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

Tradition and a love for animals

The Baroque facade welcomes you and guides you inside the basilica where you will find the nave, the choir and the attic (which is accessible by prior arrangement - enjoy the experience of walking under the roof!) as well as the paintings of Saint Hubert and his mysterious stag. Animals have a special place here; many pilgrims bring their faithful companions with them, seeking the protection of Saint Hubert. Three times a year, dogs, cats and other animals are blessed by the Dean during Mass. A tradition that combines folklore, beliefs and history and attracts large crowds, making it an unmissable event in the region!

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With its Renaissance style and Latin cross shape, it’s an essential part of the town’s architectural heritage and a location with an exceptional history.

Malmedy Cathedral was built between 1776 and 1784 in Waimes sandstone (regional stone). Initially, it fulfilled the role of a Benedictine abbey, then became a parish church after the French Revolution before eventually being elevated to the rank of a cathedral under the ephemeral Eupen-Malmedy diocese from 1921 to 1925. It’s a surprising title (because its architecture and size are still comparable to those of other religious buildings) that it only owes to the town’s specific political situation between the wars, but has retained pursuant to the Code of Canonical Law.

What can you see there?

Straight away, the majesty of this location with its pure, stripped contours is evident. Two tall square towers welcome you inside to vast spaces bathed in light. In here, your glance will be drawn by the Holy Virgin’s altar, which is original, as well as its four sculpted wood confessionals and pulpit. Although the stained glass windows are not original (they were destroyed in the December 1944 bombings), the bells are; built in 1786, there are 35 authentic bells, which are the work of Martin Legros, an inhabitant of Malmedy.

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Situated in Malmedy, the Malmundarium is an old monastery that has become a fascinating place of memory, art, history and culture. A must-see tourist destination at the heart of the High Fens.

It’s a building with an incredible history. Heritage from the past, whose origins date back to… 648! At that time, the region was a wilderness where a few monks inaugurated the beginnings of a monastery, then later, an abbey principality that lasted for centuries.  The French Revolution sounded the death knell for the principality and the monastery, which lost its religious function at the same time. It then had multiple purposes depending on its users who refurbished each time: first, the French regime, then the Prussian regime in 1815 and the German regime in 1870.  In 1985, the town of Malmedy decided to acquire this extraordinary location. The objective? To make it a major cultural and tourist centre. Yes, that’s right!

The historical and tourist heart of Malmedy

Today, the illustrious monastery has been renamed the Malmundarium and has become a top tourist attraction.  You’ll be dazzled by the beauty of the premises which have been magnificently restored and bring together several spaces. It spans two levels and no less than 3,000 m², taking you to discover Malmedy and its region’s history along a fun and interactive trail. When you get there, you’ll discover a host of fascinating activities like the Historium which traces back over 14 centuries of history, the leather and carnival workshop, the paper workshop, the cathedral’s treasure, exhibitions, events… Come and plunge into Malmedy’s vibrant history!

Copyright pictures: malmundarium.be

This is a magnificent castle with a history unlike any other. Situated in Waimes, at the heart of the High Fens, it overlooks the Warche Valley from the top of its rocky outcrop with a cascading waterfall, and takes you on a trip back in time…

Accessing Reinhardstein Castle takes a little effort: you can only get there on foot (cars must stay in the car parks 550 metres away). You’ll be plunged straight into the atmosphere! Built in 1354, the castle passed through the hands of several powerful families before being left to ruin in the middle of the 19th century. It was only in 1965 that a happy accident brought it back to life after 150 years of deterioration over time: a Brussels teacher and history buff named Jean Overloop discovered the ruined castle on a walk. It was love at first sight! For 18 months, with the help of other enthusiasts and using the know-how of local tradespeople, he set to work renovating the location and rebuilding it with the original materials. This restored the cachet of this incredible location!

Plenty of activities to thrill you

Completely refurnished after its reconstruction, the castle has come back to life and regained its full splendour today! You’re sure to be moved by this fantastic vestige of the past that takes you back on an impressive journey through time on the guided tours on offer: here, you visit the main building, imagine yourself as a knight in the dungeon, walk among armour, paintings, chests and tapestries… And that’s not all because many activities are organised to enhance the visitor’s experience: an annual mediaeval banquet, themed weekends, music concerts, tastings, night walks, historical or contemporary exhibitions (with outstanding collections or well-known artists)… in a nutshell, there’s something for young people and old!

Copyright pictures: Visit Wallonia / Visit Ardenne

In addition to being a magnificent historic building, Stavelot Abbey is an exceptional cultural centre, classified as ‘Outstanding Heritage of Wallonia’. A perfect spot for a day out with the family.

Stavelot Abbey has been magnificently restored and is a site of both culture and heritage. Inside, you will discover a contemporary art gallery and three permanent museums complete with video screens: the Historical Museum of the Principality of Stavelot-Malmedy, the Museum of the poet Guillaume Apollinaire and the Spa-Francorchamps Racetrack Museum.

All kinds of activities

Throughout the year there is a wide variety of temporary exhibitions and events, including concerts and theatre performances. Lots of lovely entertainment for people of all ages in an exceptional location!

Outside, the monastery garden is particularly pleasant for a peaceful stroll. Did you know that this ancient Benedictine monastery was founded in the 7th century by Saint Remacle and most of the current buildings date back to the 18th century.

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Sister Anne, can you see anything coming? It’s difficult not to take in the surrounding countryside when you’re climbing up to the Château Fort de Logne. Immerse yourself in this fortress which was home to famous warlords, known as the "Wild Boars of the Ardennes".

Nestled on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking the Ourthe valley, you’ll need to put on your walking shoes to reach this castle. It’s easy to see why this place has been a refuge for local people and passing visitors for centuries. With a breathtaking view over the valley, you can see why this exceptional location was chosen as the site for a fort. A fort that was eventually destroyed by order of Charles V in 1521 and whose ruins you can explore today. Ready to discover this piece of history in Vieuxville-Ferrières? Unearth the mysteries of Fort de Logne with your audio guide or by joining a guided tour...

Ready for a treasure hunt?

Before storming the castle, take the opportunity to visit its museum, housed in a 16th-century farmhouse, to discover what castle life was like in the Middle Ages. What next? You can’t have a castle without treasure! At the heart of the Château Fort de Logne lies the Golden Goat, a legendary animal rumoured to be guarding the castle’s magnificent treasure. How can we find him? By solving 6 riddles with the help of your team, of course! Keep your eyes peeled, the clues are not hidden far away... Still got some energy left? Time for the falconry display! In summer, a falconry show featuring around thirty birds of prey will have you gazing at the sky in wonder as you admire their majestic flight. Eagles, hawks, owls and buzzards soar along the ruins, leaving you on a high at the end of your visit.

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Did you know that 2,000 years ago, one of the largest farms in northern Gaul was between Rochefort and Jemelle? That’s right, in Belgium! This was Malagne, a Gallo-Roman villa that you can see at the Rochefort Archaeopark.

Our land definitely still has lots of surprises in store! You too can set off on a journey to discover these ancient times through listed archaeological heritage! When you visit Malagne, you’ll admire the reconstructed buildings and farming tools from the time, see cereal crops and ancient breeds of horse, cow and sheep, and discover the occupations of the era’s inhabitants or see a Gallo-Roman towed harvester. Not to mention the bakery, brewery or forge. We told you there was a little archaeological gem hidden here!

Agriculture of yore

In total, there are 14 hectares of discovery and fascinating things to learn. You can even watch the archaeological experiments still in progress. And above all, you can walk through the Gallo-Roman flower and vegetable gardens which marked the history of the Roman era. And being one of the largest farms in northern Gaul is no mean feat! No fewer than 350 types of plants were grown here at the time. That’s better than your local supermarket, isn’t it? It’s an opportunity to discover forgotten vegetables and get a few ideas for recipes on a journey through culinary time! Plan your trip: come to the Rochefort Archaeopark!

Copyright photos : www.malagne.be

You’ve probably spotted it from the E411 motorway. The Castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne, with its large stone towers and imposing dungeon, is an eye-catcher. It’s no surprise that it has been listed as an outstanding cultural heritage site in Wallonia. And what an exceptional place it is, as beautiful outside as it is inside.

When it comes to must-see sites, the Castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne is easily at the top of the list. Construction began in the 15th century and has evolved over time and as a result of the battles that have taken place around it. Don't worry, today you’ll find it surrounded by peace and quiet. The fortress consists of a diamond-shaped inner courtyard, with no fewer than 32 decorated and furnished rooms, surrounded by a moat and an impressive keep. During your visit, wander from room to room and discover what life was like for the Lords of Lavaux in the 17th century. Then the cellars will take you back to rural life in Famenne at the end of the 19th century with the help of the everyday objects, customs and celebrations of the period.

Nature and hunting in the Famenne

Hunting was one of the most popular activities of the lords of the time. This is undoubtedly why the Castle of Lavaux also houses a museum dedicated to nature and hunting, which brings together a fine collection of stuffed animals found in the surrounding countryside. Would you like to go for a walk around the ponds? A wetland, consisting of a pond, a marsh and a meadow, has been reconstructed in order to recreate a typical Famennois ecosystem of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. An orchard is home to 52 tall trees and a collection of beehives, protecting the precious bees from pesticides.

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