in the immediate vicinity
Walking and cycling
Located only 1500 meters from an astonishing view point over the plain of Han-sur-Lesse, Le petit Marteau is the ideal place to start your hike or cycling tour. At Rochefort, two kilometers away, there is direct access to the RAVeL (Réseau Autonome de Voies Lentes) – a network of green roads which were previously used as towpaths or railway lines. The region is known for its beautiful hiking trails and quintessential Ardennes villages, such as Nassogne in the middle of the great Forest of Saint-Hubert.
Rochefort
Le petit Marteau is located in Hamerenne, a hamlet close to the picturesque town of Rochefort, famous for its Trappist beer. Rochefort offers a variety of sights such as the Cave of Lorette, the Ruins of the Castle of the Count and a Gallo-Roman Archéoparc. There is a large choice of cafés and restaurants to enjoy the local delicacies and, of course, the Trappist beer. Events, themed markets and the well known Festival International du Rire are organised regularly. Rochefort has a lot to offer visitors such as an outdoor swimming pool, crazy golf, or you can even book a balloon flight.
More info on: www.rochefort.be
Domain of Han-sur-Lesse
About 3.5 km from Le petit Marteau lies the quaint village of Han- sur-Lesse. There are plenty of walks with stunning views over the valley to enjoy on your own, or you could book a guided tour to visit the Cave of Han. There are 250 hectares of nature to be explored, and it has its own wildlife park - definitely worth a visit!
More info on: grotte-de-han.be
a bit further away
Provincial domain of Chevetogne
The park, located between Rochefort and Ciney, is perfect for a day trip with the family. Aside from the 12 themed gardens, there are quite a few playgrounds, sporting facilities, a petting farm, crazy golf and a boating and canoeing lake – as well as several restaurants. The perfect day out!
More info on: www.domainedechevetogne.be
Provincial domain Fourneau Saint-Michel
The Fourneau Saint-Michel, in the middle of the forest of Saint- Hubert, is a collection of typical Ardennes buildings reminiscent of the lifestyle and architecture of the 18th century. Step back in time at the open air museum and visit the characteristic rural houses, the school and the chapel. There is also The Museum of Iron which displays a unique charcoal-fuelled blast furnace.
More info on: www.fourneausaintmichel.be
Castle and gardens of Modave
The beautiful 17th century castle, part of Wallonia’s Heritage, is built on a rock and offers a magnificent panoramic view over the Condroz. You can visit the castle with an audio guide and the French garden is most definitely worth a look. The surrounding nature reserve of the Condroz is open to those keen to explore more.
More info on: www.modave-castle.be
Arboretum Robert Lenoir
The arboretum, situated in the township of Rendeux by the banks of the river Ourthe, has the largest diversity of plant species and varieties in Wallonia. It is also a great place to start your hike.
The castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne
There are three museums in the castle: The Museum of the Life of the Lords of Lavaux in the 17 th century, The Museum of Nature and Hunting, and the Cellars where rural life in the Famenne is explained. Next to the castle is an ecological zone recreating an ecosystem typical of the Famenne landscape. The wetland consists of the marsh, pond and meadow – a true paradise for insects and birds.
More info on: www.chateau-lavaux.com
Mirwart
Mirwart is one of the most charming villages of Wallonia. Surrounded by forests, the castle and old farms are a picture- perfect setting. The provincial domain, with its trout-farming ponds and woods, offers beautiful hikes.
The gardens of Annevoie
Inspired by the French and Italian gardens of the Romantic era, the gardens were designed by a member of the Montpellier family at the end of the 18th century. During your walk you will see the cascades, the water steps and the grand canal.
More info on: www.annevoie.be