The Semois Valley and its treasures Nature, Culture et Aventures
The Semois valley, a land of treasures
In the heart of the Gaume, the Semois winds between wooded hills, characterful villages and a thousand-year-old abbey. Six good reasons to leave the campsite… before coming back in the evening.
The Semois Valley National Park
690 km of waterways, wooded hills, deer, beavers and rare birds: one of Wallonia’s first national parks is best explored on foot, by bike, by canoe or with a fishing rod. For heritage lovers, the castles of Bouillon and Herbeumont tell the story of the Middle Ages.
The must-sees, not to be missed
The Giant’s Tomb at Botassart, listed as Exceptional Heritage of Wallonia, with its panorama over the Semois. The Legends Walk in Laforêt, among fairies, werewolves and witches. And more than 500 km of waymarked trails to explore at your own pace.
Orval Abbey, a spiritual jewel
Founded in the 11th century, the Cistercian abbey is famous for its architecture and its Trappist beer. Visit the ruins, the monastic museum and the gardens, then set off on the trails that lead into the forest.
Typical villages and traditions
Florenville, Chiny, Herbeumont, Vresse-sur-Semois and its wattle bridge, Laforêt and its tobacco drying sheds, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of Wallonia. All year round, folk festivals and craft markets keep the old trades alive.
Hiking, MTB, kayaking: the great outdoors
Loops of 7 to 14 km around Orval, the 116 km GR Abbeys Trail from Rochefort to Orval, forest MTB routes… and the Semois by kayak, with trips for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, starting close to the campsite.
Local flavours and family outings
Orval cheese, Gaume pâtés and Trappist beer at the local produce markets. For a change of scene: the Monument Arboretum, the old slate quarries or a day at Récréalle (bowling, mini-golf, kayaks).
