Discover historical treasures or go on an adventure from your holiday home in Belgium!

Belgium is a country that truly has it all if you're looking for a destination rich in history or if you can’t get enough of forested nature and beautiful rivers! In the Ardennes, for example, you can enjoy days of untamed nature, while Flanders offers many delights for those who want to marvel at picturesque landscapes and the most beautiful castles! So, why not skip France this time and rent a holiday home in Belgium to discover the treasures of our southern neighbours!

Rent a holiday home in Belgium for a weekend in Ghent

Many Dutch people take a day trip to Antwerp because it’s so close to the border. But just a bit further lies the city of Ghent, actually one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium! This city has a strong medieval character and boasts several impressive sights, such as Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and the Belfry tower. Both landmarks are clearly visible from the city’s bustling lifeline: the River Leie, with its charming quays Korenlei and Graslei! Tip: buy a city card! This gives you access to various museums and lets you ride the hop-on-hop-off water tram!

Looking for a great brunch spot? Discover the delicious offerings at Alix Table & Jardin d’Amis! A rich buffet awaits with a wide selection of savoury bites and sweet treats.

Land of quiet waters

Rent a holiday home in Belgium if you're planning a city trip to Ghent! Because not only can you spend plenty of time exploring, sailing, and dining at atmospheric places in the city itself, the surrounding area is also worth discovering if you're staying in Flanders. For example, take a walk through the “Land of Quiet Waters,” an affectionate name for the nature reserve along the Scheldt. Experience the lush landscape of marshes, reeds, and willows along the river, and pass one of the most beautiful castles in Flanders: the Castle of Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde near the municipality of Bornem. This late medieval gem with white towers and walls is reminiscent of the Loire castles in France. It, too, is beautifully situated on the riverbank!

Cycling along the Lesse and the Ourthe

The meandering rivers that run through the Ardennes offer many highlights and stunning natural scenery for recreational cyclists. The cycle route along the Lesse is a great option that takes you past picturesque villages like Eprave. Keep in mind the reward of beautiful views as the route occasionally becomes a leg-burner. Need a break at a breathtaking highlight? Alternate the panoramic views with an underground experience of stalactite caves and subterranean rivers in Han-sur-Lesse! From here, you can extend your ride with a relaxing pedal on flat terrain towards the castle of Wanlin. The Ourthe River also offers plenty to see. Hop on your bike in Hamoir and follow the path toward Liège. Along the way, the Ourthe plays a central role in a landscape of forests and meadows.

The most beautiful hiking trails from your holiday home in Belgium

The picturesque Pajottenland

Just outside of Brussels, you might not expect to find beautiful nature right away. But when you realize that the painter Bruegel was inspired by the southern Pajottenland, it becomes clear why this region is a must for hikers. The area is characterized by soft, rolling farmlands, a few streams, and grand castles. Walk along the winding River Zenne towards Beersel Castle, which is surrounded by a wide moat and a wooded hiking area. Somewhere along the way, the trail leads you to the Konijnenberg, where you’ll enjoy a lovely view over the undulating Pajottenland.

Want to see as many castles as possible? Then start your hike from Ternat. A 12-kilometre route leads you through a landscape of small streams and takes you past stunning castles, a watermill, and the Saint Joseph Chapel.

Adventurous walk along the mountain river Ninglinspo

To start your hike along the Ninglinspo in the Ardennes, head to the village of Sedoz. Here you can park for free and grab a bite at the local restaurant. The blue trail is an adventurous hike across log bridges and river stones. You’ll come across many little waterfalls due to the countless boulders in the riverbed. What makes this trail extra special is that the river occasionally widens into small forest pools where you can enjoy idyllic peace. The 6-kilometre trail is not too long for children, and they’ll have a blast thanks to the rugged path. Want to reach a scenic viewpoint? From the Drouet lookout point, you can rest on a bench and enjoy the view over a forested valley.

Mini-Europe miniature park in Brussels

If the previously described Pajottenland has caught your interest and you’re planning to rent a holiday home in Belgium near Brussels, don’t skip the capital! Brussels offers more than just the Grand Place with its guild houses and the Atomium! Did you know the city has its own miniature park? In this Belgian version of Madurodam, you’ll find miniature models of various buildings across Europe. Think of the white Sacré Coeur in Paris and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The park is beautifully landscaped with flowers, small gardens, and bonsai trees, and features constructions from all EU member states and the United Kingdom. Along the way, you’ll see the TGV racing by your feet or witness an eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Rent a holiday home in Belgium

Belgium is a country of contrasts. In Flanders, a holiday home is ideal for a city break, with cities like Ghent offering not only urban beauty but also gorgeous nature along the Scheldt. If you're renting a holiday home in the Brussels region, be sure to explore the lesser-known but no less beautiful Pajottenland. Want to experience the unspoiled side of Belgium? Then the Ardennes offer plenty of charming holiday cottages that serve as the perfect base for multi-day cycling and hiking adventures!