Close to Gileppe Dam, the small village of Limbourg is a very special place, like an open-air museum. Time seems to have stopped in the 18th century, fixing the pretty place and its Vesdre cobble stones in a unique atmosphere, making it well worth a visit if you're in a self-catering holiday cottage in the area!
The village of Limbourg
This village, one of the most beautiful in Wallonia, has retained all its charm of yesteryear. Most of the houses have been restored and are prettily decorated with flowers in the summer. Among them, the old Town Hall accommodates a history room and a model of Limbourg in 1632, as well as a superb art exhibition. The old fortified St George's Square is ranked as a major part of Wallonia's heritage. There are two pretty stone pumps in the square. You will stroll through picturesque little streets and find a 300 year old lime tree planted in 1713. It is said to be the witness to numerous hangings!
St George's church, which is on the hillside, is in the 15th century Gothic style. Restored recently, visitors can admire the furniture, statues and paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. The crypt is worth a visit.
Along the wall, a remarkable viewpoint overlooks the Vesdre Valley, Herve plateau and the neighbouring villages. Two 9km walks are signposted around the village of Limbourg. A map with photos is available from the Pays de la Vesdre tourist office, costing €1 (+32.87307926).
On the village square, the "Cheval Gourmand" offers hot leek and onion tarts, bacon fricassee, pancakes, ice-creams, rice and cheese tarts, bread, etc.
Copyright pictures: MTPV et Vincent Botta
