Many people assume that Belgium is completely flat, but the Semois Valley is full of rolling hills, forests, and charming villages and towns. A great area for hiking, kayaking, cycling and eating (like most places in Belgium), the Ardennes have something for everyone who just needs to get away from the daily hustle and bustle of life. Here are a few of my favourite places and the top things to do in the Semois Valley:
Best Places to Visit in the Semois Valley:
Hike the infamous Ladder Walk in Rochehaut (La Promenade des Échelles in French). Locally known as walk 84, it is not for the faint-hearted and includes a series of ladders which you have to climb up or go down, but it’s worth it as you get some wonderful views of the Semois Valley and river below. It’s 5 kms long and takes around 3 hours to complete.
Feeling adventurous? Why not rent a kayak in Alle and go down the Semois River! It’s one of the best things I’ve done in the Ardennes. It’s fun, safe, and you get to see the beautiful scenery around you from a different perspective. You can choose whether you want to go 7 kms, 10 kms, or 17 kms down the river. The best tour operator in the area we found was Kayaks La Vanne, as they are friendly, efficient and always let you know the water level of the river on their website, so make sure you check that out before going.
If you want to walk a bit but also enjoy the nature around you, go to Vresse-Sur-Semois. Have a walk through the village and then over the old wicker bridge (Pont de Claies in French), the last of its kind in the valley.
Have a drink in:
Point de Vue in Rochehaut, for one of the best views over the Semois River.
Where to eat in Semois Valley:
Le Clos de la Palette in Alle for a delicious meal. Prices are medium to high, but the atmosphere and food are worth it – especially in the winter months, as they have an open fire in the front of the restaurant and the owner personally prepares some of the dishes. Famous for their grilled meat, any of these dishes are sure to satisfy you.
Tania’s tip: try “Les Scampis à l’Orval” for a local speciality which translates to scampi cooked in a cheese sauce with Orval beer.
Au Roy de la Bière in Alle also serves very good, down-to-earth Belgian food and local specialities from the Ardennes. In addition, they have a very impressive beer selection, win-win!
Where to Stay in the Semois Valley:
Hotel Le Charme de la Semois, in Alle, is a good base for doing things in the area. It’s right on the river, has its own restaurant, and a swimming pool, which one can enjoy in the summer months. It gets very busy in the spring and summer, so make sure to book well in advance.
Hotel Auberge d’Alle in Alle is also a charming hotel with a restaurant, cozy bar, garden and comfortable rooms. Various art works are also exhibited throughout the hotel, adding to its sense of charm.