Spend a weekend in the Ardennes

Let’s be controversial – so many people come to Belgium and spend all their time in Brussels but outside the capital is some of the most beautiful and peaceful countryside in Europe. Less than two hours drive away, you will find the magnificent Ardennes, one of Europe’s best kept secrets.

Here there is peace and quiet and a truly relaxed and tranquil way of life. Don’t expect a disco or go-kart track but you will find stunning countryside, a warm welcome, some wonderful cooking and inexpensive hotels. A degree of commercialisation has developed but only to the extent of purely rural activities such as fishing, canoeing, riding and hiking. Nevertheless, it is easy to entertain yourself for a short weekend break.

There are numerous small, family run hotels and you will probably be able to book in at short notice. Eat at the Hotel and just allow the world to pass by.

For example, try the “Hostellerie Le Charme de la Semois”, totally unpretentious, with a special welcome from mine host, Dmitri. There is a bar where you can have a relaxing snack or a more formal restaurant to enjoy a meal entirely from local produce.

After breakfast, drive up to the little village overlooking the winding River Semois and enjoy the stunning views before descending down to the village nestling in the crook of the river itself. Cross over the footbridge and simply watch the fishermen or children enjoying life without a PC, PlayStation or even a TV nearby.