Belgium is a country that has nearly everything to offer if you’re looking for a destination rich in history, or if you can’t get enough of forested nature with beautiful rivers! In the Ardennes, for example, you can enjoy untamed nature for days on end, while Flanders offers plenty for those who want to soak in picturesque landscapes and visit stunning castles. So this time, skip driving to France — rent a holiday home in Belgium and discover the treasures of our southern neighbours!

Rent a holiday home in Belgium for a weekend in Ghent

Many Dutch people visit Antwerp for a day because it’s so close to the border. But not much further lies the city of Ghent — arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium! This city has a strong medieval character and boasts impressive sights like the Saint Bavo Cathedral and the Belfry tower. Both structures are clearly visible from the city’s vibrant lifeline: the river Leie, with its lively Korenlei and Graslei quays.

Tip: Get a city card! It allows you to visit multiple museums and hop on and off the water tram.

Looking for a great brunch spot? Discover all the delights at Alix Table & Jardin d’Amis! Here, a rich buffet awaits, offering a variety of savoury bites and sweets.

Land of silent waters

Rent a holiday home in Belgium if you’re planning a city trip to Ghent! Not only will you find yourself happily exploring, sailing and eating at charming spots in the city, but the surrounding area is also worth discovering if you're staying in Flanders. Take a walk through the “Land of Silent Waters,” a poetic name for the nature reserve along the Scheldt River. Experience the lush scenery of salt marshes, reeds and willows, passing one of the most beautiful castles in Flanders: the castle of Marnix de Sainte-Aldegonde near the town of Bornem. This late medieval gem with white towers and walls resembles the castles along the Loire in France — and is also beautifully located by the river!

Cycling along the Lesse and Ourthe rivers

The meandering rivers through the Ardennes offer plenty of highlights and stunning natural beauty for cycling enthusiasts. The route along the Lesse is a great choice, leading you through picturesque villages such as Eprave. Keep the reward of beautiful views in mind when the route turns into a bit of a calf burner. Need a break at a breathtaking highlight? Alternate the panoramic scenery with an underground experience in the caves and subterranean rivers of Han-sur-Lesse! From there, you can extend your ride with a relaxed pace through flatter terrain, heading toward the castle of Wanlin.

The Ourthe River also has plenty to offer. Start cycling in Hamoir and follow the trail towards Liège. Along the way, the Ourthe plays a defining role, alongside forests and meadows.

The most beautiful hiking trails from your holiday home in Belgium

The picturesque Pajottenland

Just outside Brussels, you might not immediately expect beautiful nature. But considering that the painter Bruegel was inspired by southern Pajottenland, any hiker has a good reason to explore the area. This region features rolling farmland, small streams and grand castles. Hike along the winding Zenne River to Beersel Castle, surrounded by a broad moat and wooded trails. Somewhere along the way, the route leads you to the Konijnenberg, offering a lovely view over the undulating Pajottenland.

Want to see as many castles as possible? Start a hike from Ternat. A 12-kilometre route leads you past a landscape of streams, multiple castles, a watermill, and the Saint Joseph Chapel.

Adventurous hike along the Ninglinspo mountain river

To start a hike along the Ninglinspo in the Ardennes, head to the village of Sedoz. You can park for free here and grab a bite at the local restaurant if needed. The blue trail is an adventurous walk over log bridges and river rocks. You'll encounter many small waterfalls due to the large number of boulders in the riverbed. A fun aspect of this hike is that the river occasionally pools into small forest lakes, offering peaceful spots to relax. The 6-kilometre route is manageable for children, and the rugged path provides lots of fun along the way. Want to reach a scenic viewpoint? From the Drouet viewpoint, you can enjoy a forested valley from a bench.

Mini-Europe miniature park in Brussels

If you're excited about Pajottenland and want to rent a holiday home in Belgium near Brussels, don’t skip the capital — Brussels offers much more than just the main square and the Atomium! Did you know the city also has a miniature park? At Belgium’s version of Madurodam, you’ll find miniature models of various European buildings — such as the white Sacré-Cœur of Paris and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The park is beautifully landscaped with flowers, lawns and bonsais and features constructions from all EU countries plus the UK. Along the way, you’ll see the TGV zoom past your feet or witness an eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Rent a holiday home in Belgium

Belgium is a country of strong contrasts. In Flanders, you’ll find ideal holiday homes for city trips — not just because of beautiful cities like Ghent, but also due to the nearby natural areas along rivers like the Scheldt. Renting a holiday home in the Brussels region? Take the opportunity to discover the lesser-known but beautiful Pajottenland. Want to experience Belgium’s wilder side? Then the Ardennes offer plenty of holiday cottages that make the perfect base for multi-day cycling and hiking trips!