Index - Belgium

NETHERLANDS
Brussels
Waterloo
Wavre
Index
Liège
GERMANY
Huy
Tournai
Spa
Brussels p.4
Walloon Brabant p.8
Liègep.10
Monsp.12
Tournaip.14
Namurp.16
Dinantp.18
Charleroi p.20
The Ardennes
p.22
Gastronomy
p.25
Map Wallonia
p.28
Pratical information p.30
Namur
Mons
Charleroi
Malmedy
Durbuy
Dinant
Rochefort
FRANCE
La Roche-enArdenne
Chimay
Saint-Hubert
Bastogne
LUXEMBOURG
Bouillon
Created by the Belgian Tourist Office
Brussels/Wallonia in New York
Editor in chief :
Michel Vankeerberghen, Managing Director
Coordinated by: Francoise Haffreingue
Text by: Meritxell Pucurull
Edited by : Madeline Kessler
Graphic Design: www.20something.be
Printed by AmericasPrinter.com in the USA (2014)
This brochure highlights noteworthy information
and is by no means a comprehensive list.
Nothing in this brochure shall bind the BTO in
any contract of obligation.
2
Brussels surprises people with its
originality. How many cities combine
architectural treasures, such as the
Grand Place, the largest collection of
the Surrealist genius René Magritte,
Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings,
and the cosmopolitan wonder of the
European Commission? Browse the
colorful path lined with façades painted
with scenes from such legendary comic
books as The Adventures of Tintin. And
remember: when you want it, there is a
refreshing artisan beer waiting for you.
Or do you feel like a sweet? Then enter
the doors of the best chocolate shops.
The main cities of Wallonia are approximately 1 hour from Brussels. The most
authentic region of Belgium has known
how to conserve the roots of Belgian culture, heritage, and gastronomy. Castles
and abbeys converge in these lands but
also nature, filled with forests, grottoes,
caves, and rivers. In addition, the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of
Wallonia has published a rigorous summary of the 24 towns of greatest interest.
There is no doubt that their cobblestone
streets and old mills will captivate you.
Arlon
In Namur, the capital of Wallonia, the
magnificent Citadel awaits you. Walk
along the pedestrian streets of Mons
and discover the Grand-Place. Visit the
Liège Cathedral or Dinant, the birthplace
of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. In the vicinity of Tournai, you will
be fascinated by the Beloeil Castle.
Waterloo, only 30 minutes away by train,
is one of Wallonia’s most visited places.
The history of Europe was written here!
You will be able to visit La Butte du Lion
or see the impressive reenactment of the
historic battle with hundreds of actors.
Durbuy, La Roche-en-Ardenne, or Bouillon will remain forever in your memory.
We are going to tell you a secret. The city
of Spa is a little more than an hour away
by car from Brussels and has given its
name to all of the world’s spas. Famous
people from time immemorial have gone
there for its legendary thermal pools.
Expect
the unexpected!
Are you seeking thrills? Visit the
Spa-Francorchamps Racecar Track!
One of the greatest treasures of Wallonia is the Ardennes; a magnificent setting to unwind in and also engage in
outdoor activities. There is a variety of
activities ranging from kayaking down
rivers to paragliding, hiking, and a bicycle ride through the network of slow
lanes. In addition, is has numerous nature reserves. Not only is the Ardennes
home to such natural wonders, but it
is also steeped in history. Much of the
fighting in World War II occurred in the
Ardennes, and in 1944 this picturesque
Brussels and
Wallonia are
simplement
fantastique!
area saw fierce fighting during the epic
Battle of the Bulge. A museum, the New
War Museum, dedicated to World War
II is located in Bastogne. You can also
experience the history of World War II in
its original setting by visiting important
monuments, such as the Malmedy Massacre or the Wereth 11 site.
Learn about Belgian character. It is distinguished by its humor charged with irony, and above all, for being affable and
welcoming. Walloons are accustomed
to a nicely set table. You will be able to
savor well-seasoned cuisine made with
fresh products, a delight for the palate.
© WBT - S. WITTENBOL
© WBT - J. P. REMY
Orval
Walzin Castle
INDEX
3
Grand-Place
Brussels
Brussels
Cosmopolitan, lively, and colorful. That is how Brussels is
described by those that have the opportunity to visit.
4
BRUSSELS
© WBT - G. BATISTINI
Its great Art Nouveau and Art Deco heritage invite the visitor to dream. Without a doubt, the comic book façade
path, with Belgian characters, such as
Tintin or the Smurfs, gives the stamp
of modernity to the so-called City of
the Ninth Art. Another of its great wonders is the famous Grand-Place. When
Victor Hugo saw this plaza, which has
been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for the first time, he was
moved and exclaimed that it was “the
most beautiful plaza in the world.”
© WBT - J. P. REMY - www.atomium.be-SABAM
Atomium
By now, no one is surprised that René
Magritte was born in these lands. The
symbolism of his blue skies combined
with phantasmagorical forests and
bowler hats is a constant nod at the
environment. As one could imagine,
Brussels wanted to honor the great
genius of surrealism with the Magritte
Museum, the largest collection of the
painter’s canvases.
of Belgian design. The Saint Jacques
neighborhood, on the other hand, is
the epicenter of the capital’s most exclusive fashion: the Vintage. As night
falls, Brussels reveals its more leisurely
personality with a tempting variety of
concerts, clubs, and discothèques.
The irony that Magritte’s characters
show is not far from the warm, cheerful, and welcoming nature of the people
of Brussels. The cafes, typical Belgian
establishments, are always crowded
with people at mid-afternoon, as are
the streets with flea markets, such as
the Place du Jeu de Balle. The Avenue Louise and the Rue Dansaert are
ideal for shopping and getting a taste
An authentic passion for gastronomy
awaits you. Did you know that Neuhaus created the first praline? Surrender to the greatest master chocolate
makers and beer makers. Our beers,
internationally recognized, are the
pride of the nation. Currently, there are
more than 600 varieties. The French
fry is also a Belgian invention. At first, it
was designed to ridicule hunger by im-
itating the shape of a small fish. Later, it
turned into an entire art form. In Brussels, you will find an endless number of
French fry stands.
Have an ice cream cone and head for
the neighborhood of the European
Commission to learn about the institutions first hand. We also recommend
that you take a walk through our parks.
Brussels is one of the greenest cities in
Europe. Ride a bike, Segway, or go on
foot through these prime spaces.
Allow yourself to be overcome by
colorful Brussels!
BRUSSELS
5
Essential visits
A lot of ink has been used writing about
the Grand-Place, understandably, due
to the fact that for eight centuries it has
captivated artists and visitors. It is encircled by a few guildhalls from the 17th
century and an ornate City Hall from the
15th century. A few meters away, you will
find one of the capital’s most controversial figures: the Manneken-Pis. The
legend goes that with that gesture, the
boy put out the wick of a bomb intended for the colossal plaza. Nevertheless,
for the people of Brussels, it personifies
its irreverent nature. In this same area
stands the Saint Hubert Royal Galleries.
Inaugurated in 1847 under its sublime
crystal chandelier, the capital’s best
leather goods shops, chocolate shops,
and boutiques may be found here.
Fifty years ago, the Belgian Comic
Strip Center (BCSC) opened its doors
in one of the most coveted Art Nouveau buildings in the capital. The City
of the Ninth Art considered that the
time had come to bring all of its comic
book culture together. Currently it is a
reference point and receives 200,000
visitors every year. The program includes exhibitions, conferences, and
creative workshops.
Nestled in the Treurenberg Hill stands
the St. Michael and St. Gudula’s Cathedral with its Gothic style and remains of a
Romanesque crypt. It used to be a crossroads between two important highways.
Brussels Card
Get all the perks with the Brussels Card. For 24, 48, or 72 hours, enjoy savings
with this card including admission to 30 museums in the capital, a map,
discounts at stores, chocolate shops, restaurants, bars, tours, attractions… And
unlimited transportation on streetcars, buses, and the subway!
6
BRUSSELS
The Mont des Arts is another of the
capital’s hills. Better known as the
museum zone, it constitutes the headquarters of the Bozar, which was designed by the famous Art Nouveau
architect Victor Horta, who is also
honored with the Horta Museum of
Brussels. The Bozar – with 4000 m² of
exhibitions, theater and dance auditoriums, movie theaters, and bar-restaurants – has become a venerated artistic space. The nearby Magritte
Museum is one of the most visited
museums in Brussels since it contains
the largest collection of the works of
the surrealist master with 200 works
of different legacies, among which
are included oils, gouaches, posters,
or photographs.
However, the Atomium is the great
attraction in Brussels. Panoramic views from its 102 meter height,
2,970 diodes, 2,400 tons of steel,
exhibitions, and a café-restaurant. It
was created for the 1958 Universal
Exposition, and its 9 atoms pay tribute to this scientific discovery.
Remember that visiting Brussels is a
wonderful opportunity to learn more
about the European Parliament. Don’t
miss the free exhibition, in 23 languages, about each of the member states
that Parlamentarium offers.
After having sampled our chocolates,
perhaps you will feel like taking a walk
in the Cinquantenaire Park and visit its
museum. Its collections revolve around
the civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia,
Greece, and Rome.
Highlight Events:
• Floral Carpet in the Grand Place
(Mid-August every two years)
• Historical Ommegang Parade
(Early July)
• Brussels Summer Festival
(Early to mid-August)
• Festival of Comics
(Early September)
• Beer Weekend
(Early September)
• Art Nouveau Biennial
(Every two years in October)
• Christmas Winter Wonders
Market (Late November to
the end of December)
In the Mont des Arts, you can immerse
yourself in the fascinating Coudenberg
Palace. This archeological settlement
contains ruins of the ancient Brussels
Palace, former residence of Charles V.
Nearby, the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) is one of the rare gems
of Brussels. Located in a splendid Art
Nouveau building dating to the end of
the 19th century, it allows you to listen to
a selection of 1,200 instruments thanks
to a system of infrared headsets.
© VISITBRUSSELS - J. P. LEJEUNE
Cathedral of Saints Michel and Gudule
Of course, Brussels is the best place
to learn about the history of chocolate
since, when it comes to master chocolate makers, it enjoys an enviable
reputation. Belgians know it, and they
produce 172,000 tons per year! In addition to having witnessed the invention
of the praline, the capital has been confirmed as the headquarters of the great
brands such as Neuhaus, Wittamer,
Darcis, or Galler.
Another visit to have in mind is the Natural Science Museum, which houses
the largest Dinosaur Exhibit in Europe
with more than 30 specimens of originals and reproductions.
Don’t say goodbye to Brussels without
having visited one of the best known
Art Deco private residences in the capital, famous for its furniture and upholstery: the Alice and David van Buuren
Museum and Gardens.
Mont des Arts
In front of the Atomium, we recommend the Mini-Europe Park, with the
most important events and attractions
in Europe, which encompass everything from a live eruption of Vesuvius
to the incomparable chimes of Big Ben.
Check out our webpage
www.visitbelgium.com!
You will find detailed
information about restaurants,
lodging, transportation, events,
attractions, and routes.
Musical Instruments Museum
© J. P. LEJEUNE
One of the most original ways of getting to know the capital is by following
the path of façades painted with comic book scenes. Cheerful and colorful,
they depict the adventures of such
mythical Belgian characters as Tintin,
Lucky Luke, the Smurfs, or Quick and
Flupke. We recommend that while you
are following the path, you take time to
visit the monuments or such emblematic neighborhoods as Sablon, where you
will find the Church of Notre-Dame-auSablon, the remains of the Place Jeu
de Balle, or the viewpoint in front of
the Palace of Justice.
© WBT - A. PETROSINO
Manneken-Pis
© VISITBRUSSELS.BE
Other visits
BRUSSELS
7
Walloon
Brabant
Nearby
Without a doubt, the most anticipated
event in the province of Walloon Brabant is the impressive historical reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo.
It is held every year throughout the
weekend closest to June 18th, since this
chilling battle, which ended with 12,000
dead, came to a close on June 18, 1815.
The Abbey of Villers-la-Ville forms a
part of Wallonia’s most important heritage. These majestic Cistercian ruins, in
the south of Walloon Brabant, date back
850 years. At its apogee, the abbey possessed thousands of hectares of land. In
addition, it benefited from the protection of the powerful Dukes of Brabant.
different phases. You will be able to
see soldiers and horsemen wearing
uniforms created for the occasion in a
realistic and overpowering staging of
the battle. But that is not all, because
demonstrations of horsemanship, firing
of cannons, bivouacs, infantries, and
much more will be performed. It’s an
authentic voyage into the past!
What to visit:
• La Butte du Lion of Waterloo
• The Battle of Waterloo Panorama
• The Waterloo Wax Museum
• The Wellington Museum of Waterloo
• Napoleon’s Last General Headquarters
in Vieux-Genappe
You are lucky. In 2015, the Bicentennial of
the Battle will be observed. As such,
there will be an increased number of
commemorations, social and other activities, and fireworks.
Reenactment of the Battle of
Waterloo (Mid-June every year)
Don’t forget, Waterloo provides you
the opportunity to see the sights
while you learn about a key moment
in European history.
How to get there:
• B russels > Waterloo 30 minutes
away by train
Also located in the south is the city of
Louvain-la-Neuve, which is home to
one of the most popular Belgian universities. Its youthful atmosphere beats
to the rhythm of cafes, restaurants, and
shops. Of course, art also occupies
a prominent position given that the
Hergé Museum, located in this area,
pays tribute to the creator of Tintin.
Highlight Event:
If you wish to enjoy Wallonian nature,
only a few minutes away, in OttigniesLouvain-la-Neuve, there is the Bois
de Rêves (Forest of Dreams), a natural
paradise of 67 hectares with 17 kilometers of trails.
Nivelles is known for its folklore and
cuisine, providing you with a magnificent opportunity to savor typical Walloon dishes. Don’t forget to visit the
Collegiate Church of Saint Gertrude.
Founded in the 7th century, it stands
in the center of this city, which housed
ancient abbeys and famous families.
In the Waterloo Tourism Office, in front of the Wellington Museum,
you can purchase a Pass 1815, valid for visiting the 5 attractions.
8
WALLOON BRABANT
Waterloo
© WBT - D. BRANCART
Participating in the reenactment are approximately 600 actors that come from
every country in the world to relive its
In La Hulpe, the municipality bordering
Waterloo, you will find the Domaine
Solvay. A green landscape, filled with
wild nature, orchards, vegetable gardens, wide walking lanes, and it is
where the Folon Foundation is located. This Belgian painter, illustrator, and
sculptor has gained an international
reputation with his unprecedented
watercolors shown in the best museums of New York and Paris, as well as
on the cover of the New Yorker. The
Chateau de la Hulpe was the setting
for the rose ceremony for The Bachelorette Season 10.
East of the province, in the municipality
of Jodoigne, you will find Mélin, listed
as one of the Most Beautiful Villages
of Wallonia. Discover the whiteness of
the stone of Gobertange, so customary in Walloon farms. If you want to
get away from it all, nothing beats this
rural village with slate roofs and more
than 300 kinds of fruit trees. Nearby,
visit the Castle and Abbey of Hélécine,
the prehistoric grottoes of Folx-lesCaves, or the magnificent Church of
Saint Adele, with pieces from the
Paleolithic and Merovingian periods.
© N. BOREL - Architecte Christian de Portzamparc
© FONDATION FOLON
Wavre
Walloon Brabant is the Belgian province closest to Brussels. In fact,
Waterloo is only 30 minutes away by train. And the capital of the
province, Wavre, is one hour away. It is characterized by its green
and picturesque landscapes full of Brabant farms that are still in use,
where you can sample regional products, such as cheese, wines,
or the famous tarte al d’jote.
Remember that, in Waterloo, you have
an appointment to visit La Butte du Lion.
When you climb its 226 steps, you will
be thrilled at the sight of the field in
which Napoleon lost his last battle. The
statue of the lion, 41 meters high and
sculpted from 28 tons of cast iron, represents the victory. It rests on a globe
of the earth and announces the peace
that Europe won on these plains. We
recommend that you visit the building
at the foot of the hill. It contains the extraordinary circular canvas “Panorama”
by Louis Dumoulin – 110 meters long
and 12 meters high. A work of art that
will help you to understand the battle in
the greatest detail.
Hergé Museum
© FONDATION FOLON
Waterloo
Chateau de la Hulpe
-
Folon Fondation
Don’t miss:
Domaine Solvay and
the Folon Foundation
How to get there:
•B
russels > Nivelles 30 minutes
away by train
•B
russels > Villers-la-Ville 1 hour
away by train
•B
russels > La Hulpe 30 minutes
away by train
•B
russels > Louvain-la-Neuve
1 hour away by train
•B
russels > Jodoigne 1 hour and
20 minutes away by train
WALLOON BRABANT
9
Palace of the Prince-Bishop
Embrace Liège’s history and enjoy the
outdoors at the same time in the heart
of the city. The Coteaux de la Citadelle has five walking paths that take
you through courtyards, and orchards,
where you will end up transplanted
back in time. Climb the stairs to the
past, and work off those Liège waffles,
by taking the challenge to reach the top
of the Montagne of Bueren, a staircase
of 374 steps, built in 1881.
By contrast, the contemporary train
station Gare des Guillemins, a creation
of the architect Santiago Calatrava,
was erected in 2009 using crystal and
concrete as its main materials. Liège
10
LIÈGE
The Grand-Curtius Museum, a museum
complex built in the 17th century gathers
together collections of archeology, decorative arts, Mosan art, and crystal, as
well as one of the largest collections of
weapons in Europe.
Liège enjoys a tempting calendar of
events, since it holds the Festival of
Wallonia, the Jazz Festival, the Christmas Market, and the Liège-BastogneLiège bicycle race.
What to visit:
• Palace of the Prince-Bishops
• Grand-Curtius
• Saint Paul’s Cathedral
• Calatrava Station
• Archeoforum
• Saint Bartholomew’s Church
and baptismal fonts
• Walks through the slopes of the Citadel
• La Batte Market (on Sundays)
The casino, devastated by a fire in 1917,
was rebuilt in 1920. Neo-classic on the
outside, it contains rooms of various
styles, such as the Louis XVI style pink
room and the Empire style blue room.
But all is not relaxation in the city of
thermal pools. The Spa-Francorchamps
Racecar Track was created in 1920 and
soon became internationally known. In
these installations, the best drivers in
the world compete every year.
Highlight Events:
•L
iège Jazz Festival
(Every year in May)
•O
utremeuse Festival
(Every year on August 15th)
• International Design Biennial
(Every two years in October)
•C
hristmas Market
(Every December)
How to get there:
• Brussels > Liège 1 hour and
20 minutes away by train
We also find mythical castles around
Liège. The Modave Castle, rebuilt in the
17th century with exquisitely decorated
rooms, is nestled on a rocky summit.
The Jehay Castle is an example of the
Mosan renaissance of the 16th century
and is distinguished by the geometric mosaic of its façade. The Château
des Termes, as indicated by its name,
has some exceptional thermal pools
in a natural environment with outside
thermal baths at 34°C, hydro-jet equipment, Jacuzzi, sauna… And lastly, the
Val Saint Lambert Castle, which has
one of the few glassworks in Europe
that is open to the public.
For those looking for something different, we recommend the Blegny Mine.
Discover Belgium’s industrial past!
The Abbey of Stavelot is a Benedictine
structure built in 651. Throughout your
visit, you can gaze at the Spa-Francorchamps Racetrack Museum, the museum of the great poet Guillaume Apollinaire, and the Historical Museum of the
Principality of Stavelot-Malmedy.
The Hautes Fagnes Natural Park was
also a peat bog region, unique at the
time. The high wooded hills and natural reserves of the Vallée de l’Our call
your attention.
Gare des Guillemins
Georges Simenon
© WBT - J. L. FLEMAL
One of the “must-sees” in the Fiery
City, a nickname originating in Wiart’s
novel, is the Palace of the Prince-Bishops, a clear example of the Renaissance period. The oldest ruins of this
palace date back to the year 1000. The
prince-bishop, Érard de la Marck, gave
it its current image in the 16th century
from the hand of the architect Arnold
van Mulcken. Another structure to
have in mind is the Gothic Saint Paul’s
Cathedral, built in the 10 th century.
Among its features are the chimes,
some stained glass windows from the
16th century, and a treasure with works
from the ancient cathedral.
But, without a doubt, one of Liège’s
most interesting sites is the Archeoforum. In addition to its original location
under the Place Saint-Lambert, it houses priceless prehistoric remains.
The city of Spa has given its name to the
world’s centers for health. Since Roman
times, notice was taken of its springs of
mineral water. Nevertheless, they were
not developed until the visit of Emperor
Joseph II to the city in 1781. Since then
there have been great advances in their
thermal pools and therapeutic methods.
Starting in 2004, it enjoys new thermal
pools surrounded by a prime natural environment, which may be accessed by
means of a glass funicular.
© WBT - P. BEROUJON
has continued to develop its modern
design, while embracing its history, by
transforming a former public pool and
bath area into La Cite de Miroir, a new
multipurpose cultural venue.
Nearby
Stavelot
The geographical location of Liège is simply exceptional.
On the one hand, the Meuse River traverses the city from north
to south, providing an opportunity to view it from on board a
cruise. On the other hand, Liège is surrounded by wooded hills
that can be explored by means of a magnificent walk through the
slopes of the Citadel.
Recent findings place the birth of the
great western emperor Charlemagne in
these lands. But in addition to that notable person, Liège has enjoyed illustrious artists in its ranks, such as Lambert
Lombard and Georges Simenon, who
is without a doubt the most prolific and
popular Belgian writer internationally.
If you wish to learn about the author of
commissioner Maigret, don’t miss the
Georges Simenon Path.
Blégny
Spa
Modave
© OTL - V. GRINSVEL
Jehay Liège
Huy
© FOLON - J. P. REMY
Liège
Thirty minutes away from Liege, the
Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery is
the last resting place of more than 7,000
American soldiers who died in World War
II. Included among the buried are the victims of the Malmedy Massacre and Wereth 11. These two towns have memorials
commemorating these tragic events.
Jehay Castle
Don’t miss:
Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix
(End of August)
How to get there:
•B
russels > Spa 2 hours away by train
LIÈGE
11
© WBT - A. PETROSINO
Mons
Tournai
Nearby
Binche
Charleroi
Near Mons, in Cuesmes, you will find
the house where Vincent van Gogh, one
of the great postimpressionist artists,
lived from 1879 to 1880. It is said that his
having lived in this region was decisive
factor in his career as a painter. Since
the year 2007, it has been open to the
public, and a tour can be made to discover more about the life of the genius.
Chimay
One of the most original buildings in
Mons is the Collegiate Church of Saint
Waltrude. Its construction began in
1450, taking more than two hundred
years to complete. Inside, you will find
a treasure made up of religious jewelry and works by Jacques du Broeucq,
the artist of Emperor Charles V. The
Louis XVI style Golden Coach is used
during the annual Trinity Procession,
better known by the name Doudou.
This celebration, which has existed for
600 years, has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Complete your tour with the Combat
of Lumeçon, of medieval origin, that
represents the battle between Saint
George and the Dragon.
Throughout this tour, you can view the
Bell Tower also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It reaches 87 meters in height.
It contains Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian
elements and has 49 bells.
12
MONS
The Musée des Beaux Arts (MBA) reopened its doors in 2013 after extensive remodeling. With a surface area of
2,500 m2, it offers temporary and permanent exhibitions.
In the City Hall, an extravagant visit
awaits you. It is the Monkey of Mons,
more commonly known by the name of
the “Singe du Grand Garde.” To this day,
the origins of this little statue continue to
cause controversy. Some historians believe that it was used as a place of punishment for the more rowdy children.
From that we get the phrase, “If you’re
not good, I’ll take you to the monkey of
Mons.” Others believe that it was the result of a test that a blacksmith was subjected to in order to earn the most prestigious title. In any event, it appears that
the theories have no end. What cannot
be denied is that it represents the free
spirit and humor of the city. Above all,
because popular wisdom sustains that
its head has to be rubbed with the left
hand. Remember that it may have consequences! It is said that young people
will become engaged that same year,
and it augers a happy event for couples.
What to visit:
•G
rand-Place and City Hall
• Collegiate Church of Saint Waltrude
• Bell Tower
• Musée des Beaux Arts (MBA)
• Monkey “Singe du Grand Garde”
• Abbey of Chimay
Also nearby, Binche celebrates one
of the most anticipated events of the
year declared as an Intangible Cultural
Heritage by UNESCO: the Binche Carnival. Immerse yourself in this Carnival
of traditional talent and watch parades
of centuries-old characters, such as
the Gilles, the Pierrot, and the Harlequins. The passion for carnival is such
that the International Mask Museum
has been founded here with a collection of carnival objects from all over
the world. It will surprise you to discover the scope of this costume. The
mask, used in innumerable ceremonies and rites, reflects social, religious,
or cultural attributes. A collection of
10,000 objects awaits you.
How to get there:
•B
russels > Mons 55 minutes away
by train
Singe du Grand Garde
Another of our great museums is the
Grand-Hornu. Ancient and modern art
come together in this space, since teams
from the Museum of Contemporary Art
(MCA) continuously organize activities
on modern creativity. Grand-Hornu is
an ancient industrial mining complex
located in the Borinage region, which
at one time constituted one of the main
mining areas of the country.
Highlight Events:
• M ons, European Culture
Capital in 2015
www.mons2015.eu
• Ritual Ducasse de Mons,
or Doudou (Mid-June)
© WBT - J. P. REMY
Without a doubt, La Grand-Place is the
ideal place to begin your visit since the
City Hall, built between 1458 and 1477,
stands on this site. Of Gothic style, it
houses the Wedding Hall with its roofs
decorated in the Italian style of the Hall of
Portraits. Stroll in the garden, landscaped
between 1930 and 1936, an authentic haven of peace. In this building, you will also
find the popular monkey statue that dates
back to the 15th century. The legend is
that whoever touches it will be lucky.
Do you fancy learning science in a fun
way? Come to the Scientific Adventures Park Le Pass, in Frameries; a for-
mer coal mining area with an important industrial past that has become a
space for dissemination and promotion of scientific and technical culture.
Above all, don’t leave the region without visiting the Strépy-Thieu boatlift.
(See pg. 21)
Pairi Daiza is a privately owned zoo
and botanical gardens, and the new
home of two Giant Pandas. This lush,
eden-like oasis is also the largest Chinese garden in Europe. It is one of the
top attractions in Wallonia, make sure
to put it on your list!
© WBT - R. DE LA RIVA
Hornu
Doudou
©WBT- A. KOUPRIANOFF
Mons
The city of Mons is acclaimed for its heritage. As such, no one
is surprised that it has been chosen as the European Capital of
Culture in 2015.
Grand-Place
St. Symphorien Cemetery is unique in
that British and German soldiers who
died in World War I are buried there. In
addition the first British soldier to die
in World War I and the last Commonwealth soldier killed during the war
were laid to rest there.
Of a historical nature, the Neolithic
flint mines in Spiennes offer activities
such as a permanent exhibition of mine
shafts and educational paths covering
more than 100 hectares. Learn about
one of the most relevant places in prehistoric Europe!
Binche Carnaval
Don’t miss:
The Binche Carnival
(Mid February every year)
How to get there:
• Brussels > Binche 1 hour away by train
• Brussels > Frameries 1 hour and
10 minutes away by train
MONS
13
Beloeil Castle
Ducasse Ath
© OTA - J. FLAMENT
Tournai
Lessines
The Bell Tower of Tournai is the most
ancient in Belgium, since its construction dates back to the 12th century.
Climb its 257 steps and view, from its
72 meter height, the admirable scene
of a city that has survived the most
turbulent periods.
A nod to the Road to Santiago: the
Church of Saint Jacques. This church
sheltered pilgrims that were on their
way to the Spanish cathedral. Of
Gothic style, it contains murals from
the 15th century and stained glass
from the 19 th century.
Tournai has much more to say about art,
as can be seen in the Musée des Beaux
Arts. With a star-shaped floor conceived by the celebrated Victor Horta,
its collection houses works by Rubens,
Manet, van Gogh, and Brueghel.
14
TOURNAI
Textiles are all around us, but not very
often do we have the opportunity to
view 250 works that attest to 600 years
of this material. That is what the Museum of Upholstery offers. Don’t forget to
visit its conservation workshop where
you can enjoy a live experience!
Will you visit Tournai in June? If so attend the Four Processions Days. This
traditional festival that gathers giants,
musicians, and carriages has been
held since 1951.
Native porcelain reached its apogee in
the 18th and 19th centuries. That is the
reason why it was decided to locate
the Museum of History and Decorative
Arts in an 18th century building. Tour its
rooms full of earthenware magnificently
decorated with all kinds of floral motifs.
What to visit:
• Bell Tower
• Musée des Beaux Arts
• Cathedral
• Museum of Upholstery and Textile Arts
• Museum of History and Decorative Arts
• Church of Saint Jacques
Highlight Event:
Four Processions Days
(Every June)
The Beloeil Castle has been the residence of the princes of Ligne since
the 14th century and is listed as one of
the most imposing castles in Belgium.
In part, it is due to is location since it
is surrounded by a moat that gives it
an almost magical atmosphere. It has
an area of 25 hectares and, among its
more valuable items are the period furniture, an endless number of collector
pieces, and a French style garden designed in 1654.
How to get there:
•B
russels > Tournai 1 hour and
15 minutes away by train
Notre Dame Cathedral
It tells the legend that Attila, accompanied by his five hundred thousand warriors, camped in the vicinity of Ath and
built the fort that would be the origins of
the city. Throughout its history, Ath has
found itself the object of different invasions, some decisive ones like that of
Louis XIV in the 17th century. Nevertheless, the renowned nature of this small
city astonishes visitors. How could it be
that with barely 28,000 inhabitants, it
could be on everyone’s lips? Without a
doubt, the Ducasse has had an important role since it is included in the list
of festivals declared to be a UNESCO
World Heritage. It responds to the traditions of processions with giants. Even
so, the originality of this event cannot be
denied since Goliath the giant parades
with his wife after having been married
the day before. A festival that owes its
inspiration to scenes from the Old and
New Testament. Another curiosity: the
House of the Ath Giants. It opened its
doors in the year 2000 as a building of
architectural interest. The giants were
born in the context of the processions at
the end of the Middle Ages, adopting an
increasingly secular nature.
In Lessines, Magritte’s birthplace, another emblematic building awaits you:
the hospital Notre-Dame à la Rose.
King Louis IX of France, at war against
King Henry III of England, pled for help
from Arnold IV, who found it necessary
to go to war despite his advanced age.
In reality, he wished to redeem himself
from all of his sins and achieve paradise. Gravely wounded during the battle, he died a few weeks later. His wife,
Alix, fulfilled his last wishes by building
a hospital for the poorest people.
Comines-Warneton has an interesting
history as it is the site of the “Christmas
Truce” of World War I where German and
British soldiers called an unofficial truce
for the holiday, they sang carols, put up
decorations, and even played a friendly
game of soccer. The Ploegsteert Museum is very close to the Christmas Truce
field and is dedicated to World War I.
© WBT - J. P. REMY
This millennia-old city has erected a
jealous guardian of valuable architectural works, such as the Notre-Dame
Cathedral and the Bell Tower, both
declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The Cathedral includes ingeniously harmonized Romanesque and
Gothic styles. Its five Romanesque
towers of approximately 83 meters
majestically crown the transept. One
must not forget that Tournai is known
as the City of the Five Bell Towers.
Nearby
Charleroi
© WBT - A. PETROSINO
Founded more than two thousand years ago, Tournai is one of
the oldest cities in Belgium. As such, it is not surprising that
throughout its long history it has been in the hands of Romans,
Franks, and Spaniards.
Beloeil
Mons
© J. D’HONDT
Tournai
Bell Tower
What to visit:
• Beloeil Castle
• House of the Ath Giants
• Hospital Notre-Dame à la Rose
Don’t miss:
• A walk in the Enghien park
•D
ucasse of Ath
(End of August every year)
How to get there:
• Brussels > Beloeil Castle 1 hour
away by car
• Brussels > Ath 45 minutes
away by train
TOURNAI
15
© WBT - E. MATHEZ
Namur
get to know the works of Henri Bles,
a Mosan artist of the 16th century,
and also the dinanderie, that is to
say, artistic objects of copper and tin
manufactured in Dinant.
The Citadel, another of the most
popular attractions, can be explored
throughout an itinerary that includes
the galleries and provides detailed
historical lectures.
Another of the great museums of
Namur is that of Félicien Rops. “In
life, the greatest thing you have is
your passion,” he wrote who, today,
is one of the most international Belgian painters of the 19 th century.
Printmaking, drawing, and painting
are just some of the aspects that this
museum dedicated to the artist features in the vicinity of his birthplace.
A few meters away stands the Church
of Saint Loup. Of baroque style, it was
erected between 1621 and 1645, following the plans of father Huyssens.
The poet Baudelaire confessed his admiration in viewing it for the first time.
Its dome made of limestone tufa and
its decoration of red and black marble
will impress you.
The Provincial Museum of Ancient
Art includes collections from the
middle ages and from the Namurian
Renaissance. It is an opportunity to
16
NAMUR
Above all, don’t miss the event
Namur in May! The city becomes a
great stage on which acrobats, actors, and festival shows take turns.
Among the treasures of the Collegiate
Church are the tomb of Saint Begga,
the pulpit, and the atrium, as well as
an exhibition of manuscripts, textiles,
and metalwork.
What to visit:
• Citadel of Namur
• St. Aubin’s Cathedral
• Baroque Church of Saint Loup
• Félicien Rops Provincial Museum
• Provincial Museum of Ancient Art
• River Cruise
The Gardens of the Annevoie Castle
awakens great wonder in the visitor.
Designed in the manner of a painting,
they have remained open to the public
since 1930. The latest additions: the
pond at the entrance, the rose garden,
and the orchard.
Highlight Events:
• Namur in May
• Wine Fair (Mid April)
• Strawberry Weekend
(End of May)
The Museum of Ceramics houses pieces ranging from the Roman period until the present day, coming from excavations that have been carried out for
more than a century. Visitors can see
vessels of the North Sea, pipes of different shapes and colors, which appeared
in the 18th century, fine Ardenne porcelain, and other objects full of history.
How to get there:
• Brussels > Namur 1 hour away by train
Citadel
© WBT - A. TREJO
Namur also enjoys St. Aubin’s Cathedral. Its construction, which began in
1751, required nearly two decades to
complete. It combines baroque, rococo, and classicist styles. It was built
on a collegiate church of which one
tower is still preserved. It contains,
among other treasures, paintings by
Jordaens and Van Dyck.
Following the death of her husband,
Saint Begga decided to take vows. In
one of her pilgrimages to Rome, she
promised Pope Godsend that she would
build a religious monastery with seven
churches in memory of the seven basilicas of the Eternal City. Those seven
churches were demolished in the 18th
century, being replaced by the Collegiate Church of Andenne, of neoclassic
style, that we can visit today.
Dinant
The Sclayn Grotto invites you to enter
a time machine. There’s nothing better
than making this dream a reality with
one of its archeologists. 1993 was a
milestone in the history of Belgian anthropology and archeology. The jaw of a
young Neanderthal man, 10,000 years
old, was discovered in an excavation
made in this same grotto. Don’t miss
this exciting visit!
In 1994, the Association of the Most
Beautiful Villages of Wallonia was
founded, which currently has a network
of 24 villages. Crupet is part of this list.
This village experienced a flourishing industry in the 19th century. Proof of it is its
five windmills, the salt beds, the forge,
and the oil factory.
© WBT - J. P. REMY
This city is located at the conflux of
the Sambre and Meuse rivers. Without a doubt, it is a lure for those that
wish to visit it on board one of the
many cruises that are organized.
Annevoie
© WBT - J. P. REMY
Nearby
Namur
Namur is the capital of Wallonia. In ancient times, its geographical
position in the center of Europe was the target of jealousy.
Nevertheless, it also turned into the protagonist of episodes as
critical as that of the Battle of the Ardennes.
Annevoie Castle
Remember to take a ride on a river
cruise. It is a practical and original way of
getting to know the region. From Namur,
you can arrive at Wépion or Dinant in
less than 2 hours and at a modest cost.
Getting on a boat is an original and surprising way of sightseeing. For those of
you who don’t have your sea legs yet, a
bike ride is another way to personalize
your experience of Namur. Rent a bike
in Namur from La Maison des Cyclistes,
and coast along the Meuse to Dinant,
stopping whenever and wherever you
feel like it!
What to visit:
•C
ollegiate Church of Saint Begga
of Andenne
•G
ardens of Annevoie Castle
•S
clayn Grotto
•C
rupet (Most Beautiful Towns
of Wallonia)
Don’t miss:
Namur river cruises
NAMUR
17
© WBT - J. L. FLEMAL
Dinant
Nearby
Climb the 408 steps of a staircase dating back to 1577 to arrive at the Citadel
or, if you prefer, take the aerial tram. It
is also possible to go by car since it has
a parking lot.
Share this historic moment and enjoy
the impressive vistas of the Meuse
Valley. Sitting in one of the terraces could be a magnificent option for
viewing the scene.
The 100 meter high bulbous bell
tower can be seen from different
vantage points in the city. It is one
of the treasures of the Collegiate
Church of Notre-Dame. Others are
its stained glass windows, several baptismal fonts from the 11th century, and
the paintings of the artist Antoine Wiertz. Of the Gothic style, this building
has foundations that date back to 1227.
If you wish to enter the world of sound,
we invite you to visit the House of Pataphony. In reality, it is considered a
space for musical creation. Imagine a
musical atmosphere and be surprised
by your own talent. Among the uten18
DINANT
Wallonia treasures its extraordinary heritage in castles, to which the vicinity of
Dinant attests. This is the case of the
Celles-Vêves Castle. It is a monument of
military architecture from the 15th century founded on a primitive structure from
the era of Pepin of Herstal (670-714).
Discover this interesting place, known
as the Belgian Versailles.
sils that come to life in this museum
are some bottles, pipes, and a series
of teaspoons…
Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the
saxophone, in another period of time
also wandered through the streets of
Dinant, his native city. The people of
Dinant, proud of his contribution to the
world of music, have decided to honor
him with a house-museum. There you
can learn about all that this instrument
has given to the history of jazz.
Highlight Events:
• Festival Jazz Nights
(End of July every year)
• Bathtub Regatta
(15th of August every year)
As you will have seen, in Dinant we
have all of the ingredients to celebrate
Jazz Nights, a festival with today’s best
musicians. This event has earned a
name in the entire country. Its melodies
allow you to dream, nearly as much as
the city itself.
The gardens that surround the Castle
combine various styles. It is worthwhile
to stop for a while under the leaves of
the three centuries old orange trees.
In addition to the beauty of its shapes,
these works of nature have been witnesses to a large part of the history of
this place. For the more intrepid, there
is nothing like a walk through the 6-kilometer labyrinth.
What to visit:
• Citadel
• Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame
• House of Pataphony
• Adolphe Sax House
Above all, don’t leave Falaën without
visiting another of its peculiar buildings:
the Castle-Farm of Falaën. As indicated
by its name, this castle from the 17th century was built on the site of a farm from
the 13th century. Inside, you will be able
to admire a cellar that offers beer tastings or the Museum of the Gastronomic
Brotherhoods.
How to get there:
•B
russels > Dinant 1 hour and
40 minutes away by train
Collegiate Church of Notre Dame
© WBT - J. P. REMY
The Daughter of the Meuse, since that
is what its inhabitants have called it,
has been praised from time immemorial, in addition to receiving the ovations
of great writers.
Han-sur-Lesse
Dinant
In a renaissance style, the Freÿr Castle
contains objects from twenty generations. We highlight the dining room with
its exceptional chimney, the classic style
rooms, the rococo chapel, and earthenware from the King Baudouin Foundation.
Outside, the fountains, the orange trees,
and the six kilometers of labyrinths in gardens from the 18th century inspire reverie.
The Lavaux-Sainte-Anne Castle dates
back to the 13th century. It is one of the
essential stops in your tour of the vicin-
ity of Dinant. Of all of the castles in the
region, it is the one that has the most upto-date feeling with its large tower and
its moat. It has been open to the public
since the beginning of the 20th century
and houses museums, such as the Rural
Life in Famenne.
Inspired by a French initiative, the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of
Wallonia bestows it label on the most
beautiful rural areas in the area. It is the
case of Celles, 2 hours away by train from
Brussels, and nestled in a valley surrounded by four hills. It has its origins in the arrival of the monk Hadelin in the year 669.
© WBT - J.P. REMY
Namur
This city of Dinant, 1 hour and 40 minutes from Brussels, is one of the
greatest tourist attractions in Belgium. Without a doubt, it is due to
its imposing view. This city, standing in front of a large crag, appears
impressive in the waters of the river. An image that is exciting to
numerous visitors day after day.
Freÿr Castle
© AIAS - R. JELLI
Adolphe Sax
Another original escape: the Grottoes
of Han. They are found in the village of
Han-sur-Lesse, at the doors of the Ardennes. You will be amazed at its two
kilometers of rooms and galleries that
contain, among other wonders, a gigantic stalagmite 5.8 meters in height and
12,000 years old, known by the name of
Le Minaret. Also highlighted is the impressive Dôme room, 145 meters in size
and covered in stalagmites.
The time has arrived to savor an artisanal beer. The Brasserie du Bocq exemplifies the passion and the commitment
for the artisanal production of beer. It
began functioning in 1858 at the hands
of Martin Belot, and since then has kept
its independence. See the birthplace
of one of Belgium’s most famous beers
by taking a trip to the Abbaye de Notre
Dame de Leffe.
Don’t miss:
Grottoes of Han
What to visit:
• Celles-Vêves Castle
• Castle-Farm of Falaën
• Lavaux-Sainte-Anne Castle
• Castle and Gardens of Freÿr
•C
elles (Most Beautiful Villages
of Wallonia)
• Brasserie du Bocq
DINANT
19
Tournai
The material that was used in its construction is a type of stone from Soignies. A blue-gray colored stone coming from Henao, Namur, or Liège used
in the region since the Middle Ages.
Relax. View its majesty. Listen to the
melodies of the chimes composed by
Jacques Bertrand, and remember that
visits are organized in the City Hall.
Art Nouveau heritage of Belgium.
The polychromatic façade, the work
of forged iron and glass, the graffiti or
vegetable and floral motifs constitute
the richness of this building.
Charleroi is the birthplace of the Belgian comic book and has seen the
birth of innumerable cartoonists.
The secret: the Marcinelle School.
Coming from that school are authors,
such as Jijé, Franquin, Peyo, and
Morris. On the comic book path, you
will find represented such emblematic figures as Lucky Luke and Marsupilami. Take the adventure!
The variety of museums will also not go
unnoticed by visitors. The Musée des
Beaux Arts contains works from the
19th and 20th centuries, while the Jules
Destrée Space brings together the fund
Chimay
In Marcinelle, the Bois du Cazier attests,
as none other, to the lights and shadows
of mining. Although it played a preponderant role in the industrial era, it was
also the scene of the greatest mining catastrophe in Belgium. On August 8, 1856
a fire tragically ended the lives of 262
workers in this mining settlement. A Wall
of Memory stands on the site, a tribute
to the persons who died. In the installations, you will also find four museums:
the Industrial Museum, the Workshops,
the Glass Museum, and the Museum of
August 8, 1856.
bequeathed by the heirs, Georges and
Martine Armand. The Museum of Photography is Europe’s largest museum
devoted solely to photography with a
collection of 80,000 photographs.
Above all, don’t miss one of the most
anticipated events of the year: the Biennial of Dance. Learn more about the
most surprising face of contemporary
choreographic creation!
Close by, in Gozée, we invite you to visit
the ruins of the Abbey of Aulne, founded in the year 657 by Saint Landelin.
This abbey treasures a turbulent past
that ended in the demolition of part of
the building and later sale of the building material. Nevertheless, it maintains
an ancient atmosphere, which is why it
has been christened with the name “The
Valley of Peace.” Currently, you can visit the Val de Sambre Beer Brewery, on
the same grounds.
What to visit:
•P
lace Charles II: Basilica,
City Hall, and Bell Tower
•G
olden House
•C
omic Book Route
•M
usée des Beaux Arts
• J ules Destrée Museum
•M
useum of Photography
The Golden House is also found in
Charleroi. Adolphe Chasteur, an industrialist in the glassmaking industry, decided to build it in 1899. It is a clear example of how Art Nouveau answered
the needs of the industrial bourgeoisie. It forms a part of the important
City Hall
Highlight Event:
Biennial of Dance
(Every two years in November)
20 CHARLEROI
Coal was the first source of energy in the
19th century, and Charleroi knew how to
make the most of its advantageous location, exporting a substantial part.
How to get there:
• Brussels > Charleroi 50 minutes away by train
© CHARLEROI TOURISME - G. SANTIN
The Basilica dates back to the year
1667 and possesses an impressive
cupola 48 meters in height. In the vicinity, there is the City Hall, inaugurated in 1936. Joseph André designed
this structure that culminates in a bell
tower, declared a World Heritage Site
by UNESCO. It is a tower 60 meters in
height and weighs 4,000 tons. Each
day its 47 bells are responsible for
bringing the chimes to life.
Nearby
Charleroi
Marcinelle
In the vicinity of Charleroi, great works
of engineering also await you, such as
the four lifts of the Canal du Centre in
Houdeng-Goegnies and the funicular
lift of Strépy-Thieu. They are considered one of the great works of modern
engineering. Located in the channel of
the Canal du Centre, they were built to
provide for the difference in height between the two river channels. To the
present day, these lifts, at 73 meters, are
the highest in the world. Their construction has allowed an ostensible increase
in the shipping of goods. A tourist attraction that you will only be able to see
in Wallonia, come and discover firsthand
how these lifts work!
During the summer of 1850, a small group
of monks belonging to the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, usually
called Trappists, established themselves
on the wild plateau of Scourmont near
Chimay. Since then, they have been
producing the world-renowned Chimay
beer. In 1876, they started making a semisoft cheese using the milk of their farm.
Lastly, we invite you to participate in an
interactive experience with the guided
tours of the Biercée Distillery. Did you
know that 10 kilograms of fresh fruit are
needed to produce one bottle of alcoholic spirits? Currently, the Biercée Distillery
is one of the few factories that maintains
its artisanal production methods.
Biercée Distillery
© CHARLEROI TOURISME - G. SANTIN
Mons
This city, which was originally called “Charnoy,” adopted the name of
“Charles-Roy” (King Charles) in honor of Charles II of Spain.
In the Place Charles II, you will find works of architecture as
emblematic as the Basilica of Saint Christopher and the City Hall.
Lucky Luke
© WBT - J. L. FLEMAL
© E. DATI
Charleroi
What to visit:
• Bois du Cazier
• Abbey of Aulne
• Four Lifts of the Canal du Centre
• Notre-Dame de Scourmont Abbey
Don’t miss:
Funicular Lift of Strépy-Thieu
How to get there:
• Brussels > Marcinelle 1 hour away
by train
Bois du Cazier
CHARLEROI
21
Frahan
The Ardennes
La-Rocheen-Ardenne
Bastogne
Bouillon
Orval
If you think that Belgium is flat the Ardennes will prove you wrong. The more
mountainous terrain allows for hiking, kayaking, bicycle rides, fishing, or
horseback riding. In its natural heritage,
we find grottoes, prehistoric sites, rivers, forests, groves, and four of the nine
natural parks of Wallonia.
The Ardennes also possesses other
curiosities, such as the city of Durbuy,
which has the peculiar honor of being
the smallest city in the world since 1331.
Walk along its original cobblestone
streets, viewing historic architecture
and find yourself transported back in
time. Take a break from time traveling
and enjoy a delicious meal in one of
Durbuy’s many restaurants.
22 THE ARDENNES
© WBT - J. P. REMY
The Topiary Park is one of the essential
visits to make in Durbuy. Topiary is the
art of sculpting plants. This garden covering more than two acres of land contains 250 figures of plants more than
120 years old. The terrace provides an
exceptional panorama.
In the Barvaux Labyrinth, another
very original activity awaits you. 2,152
square feet of paths and a different
solution every year. Use your intuition
and logic to find the way! 27 acres of
corn fields, over 6 miles of paths, actors,
The Ardennes range extends through Belgium, Luxembourg, and
France. Their name comes from “Arduinna,” the Celtic goddess
of fauna. And such it is that the lungs of Europe have hills that
reach more than 1,968 feet in height in the Hautes Fagnes
area of northeastern Belgium. It is mostly famous for the brutal
battles that occurred there during World War II, for example the
Battle of the Bulge.
and shows. Last summer, it had 70,000
visitors! Or if you feel like being a little
more active go kayaking down the Ourthe River with Durbuy Adventure River.
Durbuy
Among the regional produce, we find
cheeses, cured meats, and, of course,
the marmalades since it has the Saint
Amour Artisanal Marmalade Factory,
which produces jellies from flowers, jams,
honey, vinegar, balsamic vinegar, etc.
What to visit:
• Natural Parks of the Ardennes
• Durbuy Castle
• Saint Amour Artisanal
Marmalade Factory
• Corn Maze in Barvaux
• Kayak run down the Ourthe
Don’t miss:
• Topiary Park in Durbuy
• Beer, Bread, and Cheese Festival (Every year in September)
© WBT - G. CROPPI
Durbuy
How to get there:
• Brussels > Durbuy 40 minutes
away by car
THE ARDENNES
23
La Roche-en-Ardenne is considered
to be one of the most important Celtic settlements in Belgium. In addition,
it is one of the scenes of the Battle of
the Ardennes during the Second World
War. The city wanted to pay tribute to
this episode with the Battle of the Ardennes Museum. A three story building in which the visitor can find 120
mannequins of soldiers, uniforms, a
collection of weapons, photographs,
and 20 military vehicles.
High above the rocky spur of the Deister stands the ruins of its feudal castle.
Founded by the Count of La Roche in
the year 844, it was an oppidum in its
beginnings. The Castle of La-Rocheen-Ardenne was not erected until the
9 th century, reaching its apogee in the
12th and 17th centuries. It has the singularity of being inhabited by a ghost.
Mardasson Memorial
Gastronomy
In Bouillon, a thousand-year history
awaits you with its impressive fortress. It
has its origins in the 8th century. The architect Vauban took charge of its remodeling. Don’t miss out on the magnificent
spectacle of falconry that is performed
every day from March to November.
In this same city, the Archeoscope Museum was installed inside the walls of
the Les Sépulcrines convent in 1998.
Learn about the history of Duke Godfrey
of Bouillon, one of the leaders of the
First Crusade, in this spectacular tour.
The Abbey of Notre-Dame de Orval is
a Cistercian-Trappist monastery located
in Florenville. The monks that settled in
Orval came from the south of Italy in the
year 1070. The feudal lord, Count Arnauld
de Chiny, took them in and granted them
some land. Visit its brewery, which produces the well-known Orval beer, made
of spring water, barley, sugar, liquid candy, and hops. In addition, it has an artisanal cheese shop on the premises.
As of today, the Association of the Most
Beautiful Villages of Wallonia has now
listed 24 villages located throughout the
provinces. They are characterized by
possessing a cultural, rural, and architectural heritage. And of course, by their
captivating atmosphere!
Wallonia and Brussels have been known
how to transform the experience of their
history into flavors. These lands, occupied and inhabited by Gauls, Romans,
Spaniards, and even Germans maintain
traces of the past in its culinary recipes.
No one is surprised that in a region in
which hunting preserves, rivers, and orchards abound there would be such authentic and flavorful products.
Discover the quality of our delicacies,
as international, at times, as beer,
chocolate, and waffles. Dare to carry
the adventure of traveling to the dinner table and try our cheeses, spirits,
and cured meats.
What to visit:
• Bastogne War Museum
• Bastogne Barracks
• Museum of the Battle of the Ardennes
in Roche-en-Ardenne
• Ruins of the Castle in Roche-enArdenne
• Fortress of Bouillon
• Abbey of Orval
© WBT - E. DUBOIS
Bastogne is also home to the Bastogne
Barracks, which was the headquarters
of General McAuliffe, the leader of the
101st airborne division.
But don’t be afraid… It is the spirit of
Countess Berthe that wanders, without rest, through the place of her
death. View this paranormal phenomenon nightly from July to August!
© WBT - J. L. FLEMAL
Although you wouldn’t be able to picture it now, Bastogne was the site of
one of the bloodiest battles fought by
the USA in World War II. The Battle of
the Ardennes, also called the Battle of
the Bulge, was the largest land battle
on the Western Front. The new Bastogne War Museum, which opened in
March 2014, tells the story of the Battle
of the Bulge from the perspective of two
soldiers (one American, one German), as
well as a local teacher and a teenager
who lived through the onslaught that
devastated their town. Located next to
the museum is the Mardasson Memorial,
erected in the memory of the 76,890
American soldiers killed, wounded or
missing in the Battle of the Bulge.
A world
of pleasures to
be discovered!
Chateau de La Roche-en-Ardenne
24 THE ARDENNES
How to get there:
•B
russels > Bastogne 1 hour and
35 minutes away by car
• Brussels > Roche-en-Ardenne
1 hour and 30 minutes away by car
•B
russels > Bouillon 1 hour and
40 minutes away by car
© WBT - THOMASBLAIRON.BE
• The Soup Festival of
La Roche-en-Ardenne
(End of September, every year)
•C
ommemoration of the Battle
of the Bulge in Bastogne
(Mid December, every year)
© LA ROCHE-EN-ARDENNE TOURISME
Don’t miss:
GASTRONOMY
25
In Brussels, you can visit the Brasserie
Cantillon. It is the only family-owned
beer brewery that survives in the capital. Inaugurated by Paul Cantillon in
1900, it has continued as a family tradition. It mainly produces Gueuze, a
typical beer of Brussels, but also Faro
and Kriek beers. In addition, there are
guided tours.
In Wallonia, another legendary beer
brewery is the Brasserie Dubuisson,
near Mons. It is the oldest in Belgium
and has been operating since the year
1769, now operated by the eighth generation of master beer makers. In the
Irchowelz Castle, on the outskirts of
Ath, the Brasserie des Légendes is located, known for its beers made from
natural ingredients.
The Brasserie à Vapeur, near Tournai, organizes guided tours and
demonstrations. The Microbrasserie d’Erquelinnes was born of Alain
Brootcoorens’ passion for beer production. For years, he produced it in
his garage until he finally moved to
create his own business.
Of course, the prize for originality is
captured by the abbeys. These peaceful havens have produced their own
beers since time immemorial. It is the
case of the Abbey of Notre-Dame
de Leffe or the Abbey of Floreffe,
founded in the year 112. The Trappist
abbeys, on the other hand, employ
ancient recipes coming from the Cistercian monks and may only be produced under the supervision of the
Trappist religious order. The Abbey of
Notre-Dame de Scourmont (Abbey of
Chimay), which also produces cheeses, the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Saint
Rémy (Abbey of Rochefort), and the
Abbey of Notre-Dame de Orval are
three of the ten Trappist abbeys that
there currently are in the world.
Despite the decrease in beer breweries throughout the past century, beer
continues being one of the beverages
most prized by Belgians.
26 GASTRONOMY
© WBT - E. MATHEZ
Learn about the millennia-old beverage
by visiting the Schaerbeekois Beer Museum in Brussels. The villages of Saint
Vith, Lustin, and Anthines also have
their own beer museums.
For lovers of the king of hops, there is
nothing better than attending a class
in the NovaBirra school in Braine-l’Alleud. Learn how to produce your own
artisanal beer!
Above all, don’t miss the Museum of Cacao and Chocolate in Brussels! Belgium
is the best place to learn about the history of this flavorful bean!
© WBT - P. LERMUSIAUX
The French fry is a Belgian invention,
and there is an authentic method of
cooking it. To begin, it has to measure 1
cm on each side. It must then be cooked
at 150° and cooked again at 175°.
Wallonia is known for its farms where
you can sample regional products. And
also for its artisanal creations, which encompass everything from distilleries to
breweries, vineyards, marmalade factories, and even syrups. And they organize
guided tours!
The gastronomy of the capital of Europe reflects its cosmopolitan nature,
but also authenticity. Enjoy recipes as
typical as mussels with potatoes, Liègestyle meatballs, Gaume pastry, the tarte
al d’jote, the double crepe of Binche, or
Brabant-style pheasant.
© WBT - J. P. REMY
In Belgium, more than 600 varieties
of beer are produced. From light beer
served in a long glass with a thick
bottom to preserve its flavor to classic dark beer consumed with a globe
shaped glass. Fruity beers, on the other hand, are more and more on the rise
with their recipes based on red fruits,
honey, or citrus.
In Brussels, you can visit the most famous Belgian chocolate makers in the
world. Enter the doors of Neuhaus, Marcolini, Darcis, Galler, Wittamer, Gerbaud,
or Godiva. Some conduct workshops
and demonstrations, such as Zaabär
and Planète Chocolat.
The list of cheeses is varied: creamy,
semi-cured, blue… From the Fleur des
Fagnes to the Bleu des Moines, the Boulette de Nivelles or the cheese of Herve,
which is usually accompanied by syrup
from Liège. In addition, many abbeys
produce their own cheeses.
Chocolate is not the only temptation in
our cuisine, since we also have other
sweets, such as the “couque” de Dinant, a cookie made of wheat flower,
pure honey, and sugar made by the Jacobs family since 1860. And what can be
said about waffles... Did you know that
there are two kinds? Those from Liège,
with pearl sugar in the paste and those
from Brussels, which are light and airy.
Don’t forget to sink your teeth into our
tartlets. In Hainaut and Walloon Brabant
Walloon they are the king of pastries.
Other specialties also await you, such
as distilled spirits. Pèkèt is an alcoholic beverage that is consumed in all
flavors. The fruit-flavored spirit Eau de
Ville will surprise you. Maitrank, too, is
a typical wine of the region. Don’t forget that the waters of Spa have been
known for their medicinal qualities
since the dawn of time.
© WBT - E. MATHEZ
© WBT - E. MATHEZ
Belgium is synonymous with chocolate.
Without a doubt, one of the great creations inspired by this delicious bean
is praline. Jean Neuhaus invented it at
the beginning of the 20th century. Interestingly, the man who would later be
considered one of the greatest master
chocolate makers began his journey by
installing a pharmacy in Brussels in 1857.
It occurred to him to cover some medications with a layer of chocolate to hide
their flavor. Later, in 1912, he replaced
the medications with cream, with which
he had a great success. His wife, Louise
Agostini, culminated his work with the
design of the first bonbon box.
Does something salty appeal to you? Try
the cured meats! Ham of the Ardennes
is one of our star products.
GASTRONOMY
27
NETHERLANDS
LA HULPE
GERMANY
ATTRE
FRANCE
PIPAIX
UPIGNY
HOUDENG-GOEGNIES
THIEU
TEMPLOUX
STREPY
JAMBES
HORNU
FRANCORCHAMPS
WEPION
MONTIGNIES-SUR-ROC
DOUR
PALENGE
RAIGNIES
GOZEE
MARCINELLE
ANNEVOIE-ROUILLON
BOHON
BARVAUX
CRUPET
PURNODE
WERIS
SOY
FRANCE
FEYR
CELLES
FALMIGNOUL
WIBRIN
WAHA
Some distances by highway between the main
cities of Wallonia and Brussels Airport.
HAN-SUR-LESSE
LAVAUX-SAINTE-ANNE
REDU
Brussels
28 MAP WALLONIA
Arlon
116 miles
Bastogne
109 miles
Bouillon
101 miles
Dinant
61 miles
Durbuy
73 miles
La-Roche-en-Ardenne
78 miles
Liège
61 miles
Marche-en-Famenne
66 miles
Mons
40 miles
Namur
39 miles
Spa
87 miles
Tournai
44 miles
Waterloo
9 miles
Wavre
18 miles
TRANSINNE
LUXEMBOURG
BOTASSART
RULLES
VILLERS-DEVANT-ORVAL
MAP WALLONIA
29
Belgium is the size of Maryland, you can cross Wallonia from
North to South in two and a half hours by car and from West to
East in three hours by car.
· Climate: mild maritime 70°F in summer, 40°F in winter www.kmi.be
· Languages: French in Wallonia and in Brussels, German in the eastern
cantons, and Flemish (15% of the people of Brussels)
· International Dialing Code for Belgium: + 32
· American Embassy in Brussels: For callers within Belgium
02 811-4000 | Boulevard du Régent 27 | Brussels, Belgium
· Canadian Embassy in Brussels : For callers within Belgium
02 741-0611 | Avenue de Tervueren 2 | Brussels, Belgium
On the web at www.visitbelgium.com,
you can consult the different types of
lodging that are offered in Brussels
and Wallonia.
• Hotels:
www.belgium-tourism.be
• Logis of Belgium Hotels:
www.logis.be
• Country Houses:
www.gitesdewallonie.be
• Youth Hostels:
www.laj.be
• Bed and Breakfast:
www.bedandbelgium.com
• Camping:
www.camping.be
How to get there?
USA/Canada-Belgium Airlines: Air
Canada, Brussels Airlines, Delta, Jet
Airways, United, and US Airways.
Exiting the Brussels airport: 4 trains
every hour for a 20 minute trip to the
center of Brussels (stops: Gare du
Nord, Gare Centrale, and Gare du
Midi). Bus line 12 - Airport Line business days from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in a 25
minute trip.
30 PRATICAL INFORMATION
Other pratical information
By train
Brussels is two hours away from London by Eurostar, one hour and twenty minutes away from Paris by Thalys,
and one hour and fifty minutes away
from Amsterdam by train. For reservations contact Rail Europe.
Rail europe www.raileurope.com.
How to get around?
By train
You can find prices, schedules, and
special discounts (senior discount for
people over 65, discount for people
under 26, 10 journey pass, etc.) on
www.belgianrail.be. Day excursions
can also be made in combination with
the SNCB www.b-excursions.be
Guided Tours
A Greeter is native of the area that will
serve as a guide and share with you
his or her passion for the city free of
charge. www.greeters.be.
By car
The freeways are free of charge.
Car Rental
Major American Car Rental companies
are also located in Belgium.
You can get information about road
conditions at www.polfed.be.
City Transportation
Consult the network of street cars,
buses, and subways of Brussels
at www.stib.be and of Wallonia at
www.infotec.be.
By bicycle
In Brussels you can rent a bicycle
at Villo! www.villo.be or Pro Velo
www.provelo.org and in Wallonia at la Maison des Cyclistes
www.maisondescyclistes.be.
In Wallonia, you can ride in the network of
slow lanes Ravel www.ravel.wallonie.be
© VisitMons - G. MATHELOT
By plane
There are several direct flights from
the USA, departing from Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, Newark, New York
(JFK), and Washington D.C. Departing
from Canada there are direct flights
from Toronto and Montreal.
Business Hours
•B
usinesses: from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
except Sundays, some businesses
closed from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
• Post Office: from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Banks: Monday through Friday from
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
•M
useums: Open Tuesday
through Sunday.
Federal Holidays
• 1st of January, New Year’s Day
• Easter Monday
• 1st of May, Labor Day
• The Ascension
•W
hit Monday
• 21st of July Belgian National Day
• 15th of August, the Assumption Day
• 1st of November, All Saint’s Day
• 11th of November, Armistice Day
• 25th of December, Christmas Day
© WBT - E. MATHEZ
© VisitMons - G. MATHELOT
Where to sleep?
© VISITBRUSSELS - E. DANHIER
© WBT - J. L. FLEMAL
Pratical
information
Emergency
Police and Fire: 112.
Services for the Handicapped
and Red Cross
Visit www.croix-rouge.be.
Phone: +32 (0)2 371 31 11
Check out our webpage
www.visitbelgium.com!
You will find detailed
information about restaurants,
lodging, transportation, events,
attractions, and routes.
PRATICAL INFORMATION
31