Holiday Home Ardennes

Not far from the border between South Limburg and Belgium, you'll find a true mountain landscape (by Dutch standards) in the French-speaking region of Wallonia. The forests of this rolling landscape stretch all the way to the borders with Luxembourg and France and are crossed by several rivers. The Ardennes are a wonderful base for activities like kayaking—a great option for a day trip from the Netherlands, but also perfect to combine with a stay in a holiday home in the Ardennes.

Holiday cottage Ardennes

A stay in the Ardennes is a favourite way for many to unwind in a forested setting. Renting a holiday home in the Ardennes feels magical. You can smell the fragrant pine woods, stroll through a colourful autumn forest, and in winter there's a good chance the trees are covered in snow. In spring, the forests come to life in every shade of green, and in summer the natural surroundings invite you to hike, bike, or go kayaking. Anyone who loves the forest should try a holiday cottage in the Ardennes at least once!

Renting a house in the Ardennes

One of the most important rivers flowing through the Ardennes is the Ourthe, which offers plenty of recreational opportunities. Kayaking through lush forest landscapes allows you to enjoy the natural beauty from the water. Walking along the banks is also possible, but be prepared for a wild hike—the trails can be quite challenging. Another great option is the idyllic Ninglinspo stream. A hiking trail follows this mountain stream, leading you past waterfalls and peaceful spots to rest.

Relaxing at the thermal baths in Spa

After an active day in the forest, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a wellness centre. The town of Spa is a famous destination for this. Soak in your private jacuzzi or enjoy the sauna at the spa resort. Planning to rent a holiday home in the Ardennes during winter? If the landscape is covered in snow, a stay in Spa becomes truly magical! You can take the cable car from the town up to the spa and enjoy panoramic views of the wooded surroundings.

Holiday home Ardennes: Durbuy and La Roche-en-Ardenne

Durbuy

The forests of the Ardennes are interspersed with charming towns, where you can discover Belgian cuisine and enjoy a cosy atmosphere. Popular destinations include Durbuy and La Roche-en-Ardenne. Both lie on the Ourthe River, which branches off from the Meuse and winds its way through the Ardennes. Renting a holiday home in Durbuy is a great option—it offers countless ways to enjoy your stay, from abseiling and quad biking to getting lost in a giant hedge maze. The nearby village of Hotton invites you to explore an underground world of impressive caves.

La Roche-en-Ardenne

Renting a holiday home in the Ardennes is also highly recommended near La Roche-en-Ardenne. This iconic destination features a classic hilltop castle ruin. For families with children, this area in Belgian Luxembourg is an ideal spot—not just for the castle, but also for the tourist train or a museum visit to learn about the Battle of the Bulge.

The Semois Valley

The Semois River winds its way through the province of Namur. The valley is full of sights and activities: castles, watermills, and plenty of natural charm. On a walk or kayaking trip, you’ll come across ancient stone bridges spanning the meandering river that flows through the green, hilly forest. Along the Semois lies the town of Bouillon, where a medieval castle dominates the skyline. Walking along the Semois offers many scenic viewpoints, and the trails lead you to delightful villages like Herbeumont. Renting a holiday home in the Ardennes here is highly recommended, especially if you want to take on hikes like the Rocher du Chat. You’ll find both luxurious hotels in town and atmospheric rural gîtes nearby.

Holiday home Ardennes – High Fens: the Ardennes plateau

Close to the German border lies a high plateau with unique nature that sets this part of the Ardennes apart. Here you won't find green rolling hills but wide, open peatlands. A long boardwalk winds through this expansive landscape. At times it leads over pools and in other sections follows gently flowing streams. The High Fens have a special, almost mysterious appeal, and thanks to the relatively flat terrain, it's perfect for long walks or bike rides. This area can be seen as the northern gateway to the Ardennes—reachable from Maastricht in about an hour. Want to rent a holiday home in the Ardennes? Accommodation near the High Fens is in high demand, as the area is best explored at your own pace. Renting a cottage for several days is a great idea. Choose a large chalet with a garden and rooftop terrace or a cosy cabin near Eupen, which gives access to beautiful cycling routes.

Rent a holiday home in the Ardennes along the Meuse Cycle Route

The hilly terrain of the Ardennes may not seem ideal for long bike rides at first glance. Yet, there’s a relatively accessible cycling route along the Meuse River, with long stretches of relatively flat terrain. With a bit of fitness—or an e-bike—you can follow the route from Liège all the way to France. As you pass through the Ardennes near Namur, the challenge increases, but it’s well worth the effort. Cycle past steep cliffs and quaint villages and feel the mystical atmosphere of the forest. Be sure to stop at the stunning Annevoie castle gardens, where flower beds, fountains, waterfalls and the fairytale castle form a perfectly picturesque scene.

Holiday home Ardennes: luxury and charm in the forest

The Ardennes offer holiday homes that match the forest atmosphere beautifully. You’ll find all sorts of chalets, from snug little cottages to spacious group accommodations. Indoors, many are charmingly furnished with features like a fireplace. Holiday cottages in the Ardennes are especially atmospheric in autumn and winter, and if you're looking for added luxury, you can book a home with a sauna or jacuzzi. In summer, you can enjoy a shady terrace nestled in the forest or choose a detached holiday home with a view over green valleys and wooded hills.