In Nismes, in the commune of Viroinval, you will find an exceptional geological site, formed through thousands of years of limestone rainwater erosion. You'll feel like you're on another planet as you explore the gigantic fissure that the Fondry des Chiens carves into the surrounding green landscape.

This ‘Belgian canyon’ offers up lush natural surroundings, delicate flora and what can only be described as an atypical landscape. The main ‘fondry’ (naturally-formed chasm) is 100 metres long and 20 metres deep, lined with rocks, irregular fissures and deep caves. It’s almost as if the earth's crust literally cracked before us! Take in the picturesque views from both above and below, with the fascinating angles and contrasting colours all serving to make this a highly Instagrammable location!

Rare and exceptional flora

You'll also get the chance to discover some exceptional flora and fauna, including stunning and rare flowers the likes of wild and globular orchids, along with some magnificent butterflies and lizards. This unique natural setting makes the Fondry des Chiens a real hub for biodiversity. In fact, due to its level of vulnerability, it has been declared a natural protected area.

In short, let yourself be taken by the magic of this place. Take a stroll in the surrounding area and recharge your batteries full of positive energy.

There are plenty of trails to enjoy the surrounding lush countryside and forests, as well as the pretty village of Nismes on the way to Fondry des Chiens. The trails start from the Viroinval tourist information centre, near the church in the centre of Nismes, varying in length and clearly signposted. While they are all accessible for families with children, be sure to keep an eye on your little ones, as visiting the site is not without its dangers. If you don't feel like taking the walk, simply park your car close by the Fondry des Chiens. 

Copyright pictures: Visit Ardenne / Visit Wallonia 

Three very different geographic areas, all within the same national park – that’s the best way to describe the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park.

Firstly, the park includes the high moorland area of the Fens, with its wet soil and numerous marshes. Next, we have the Calestienne, a relatively dry limestone massif with remarkable southern flora and fauna. The third region is also the best known: the Ardennes forest region.

The three areas form one special ensemble, wherein nature enthusiasts can enjoy a wide variety of fauna and flora.

As the name suggests, the valleys located between the Sambre and the Meuse form the backbone of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park. Its territory covers 22,129 hectares, with the main municipalities being Couvin, Viroinval, Chimay, Momignies, and Froidchapelle.

The beautiful Eau d’Heure lakes are a major tourist attraction for the national park. It’s the ideal place to participate in all kinds of water sports, cycling, hiking, and simply enjoying the lush green nature. An ideal way to discover the limestone massif is to descend into the Neptune Caves. They’ll transport you several billion years back in time!

In short, this national park is the ideal destination for nature and geology enthusiasts, with its many outdoor leisure activities suitable for the whole family.

©photos :Visit Wallonia, Ardennes-étape

As its name suggests, the Semois Valley National Park covers the forests, prairies, and valleys along the Semois River in the southern Ardennes.

Covering an area of 28,904 hectares, the Semois Valley National Park comprises the municipalities of Vresse sur Semois, Bouillon, Paliseul, Bertrix, Florenville, Herbeumont, Chiny, and Tintigny. Its territory is made up of 86% forest and boasts no less than 690 km of waterways.

Of course, nature is the main attraction in this magnificent region, packed full of unforgettable walks and bike rides. The unique view of the Giant’s Tomb, around which the Semois River majestically winds, is a prime destination. Equally legendary is the view over Frahan, accessible via a beautiful walk from the picturesque village of Rochehaut.

Be sure to visit some of valley’s historical heritage sites, including the impressive castles of Herbeumont and Bouillon. Make sure you visit some of the most beautiful villages in all of the Ardennes, such as Chassepierre, where nature, theatre, and magic are wonderfully intertwined along the Semois River.

The Semois Valley National Park offers wonderful opportunities to discover both nature and heritage sites, along with a host of sporting activities for the whole family to enjoy. A natural paradise that will leave you wanting more!

©pictures :Visit Wallonia, Ardennes-étape

In the heart of the Pays de Herve this superb natural haven of biodiversity, created by Natagora, offers unique landscapes over more than 54 hectares!

It’s a little corner of paradise for walkers and nature lovers. The Gueule Valley Reserve is an exceptional landscape created in 2000 by Natagora, French-speaking Belgium’s environmental conservation organisation. Why La Gueule? It takes the name of the small river that flows through the eastern part of the Herve region, and which traverses a variety of landscapes including intensively farmed meadows, forests and hayfields with rare plant species.

Rare species in a protected setting

With a rich history spanning several geological periods, today the valley hosts a wide variety of habitats and species that are not to be missed, from pollarded willows, wooded hills and living hedges to various pools, a lake and river and their banks. And that's not all: the reserve is also home to one of the last existing natural calamine sites in Wallonia.  Its soil, rich in heavy metals, is home to a unique type of vegetation, which includes Westphalian fescue, pansies, stinkweed, calamine silene and sea thrift. The nature reserve continues to grow year on year,  helping the multitude of animal and plant species that share this home to flourish.

Copyright pictures: Natagora

Dip your toes in the tranquil water at Lac des Doyards, a lake devoted to fishing, pedalos and rowing boats, at Vielsalm. A quiet spot, perfect for some time with your family or friends.

Discover the lake at the Doyards domain, just down the road from Vielsalm village centre.  As an area for leisure and relaxation, this stretch of water is devoted to fishing with a permit, pedalos, rowing boats and sunbathing (no swimming allowed). There’s a children’s playground nearby to keep the kids amused. You’ve got it, it’s the perfect place for some fun with the family in the Ardennes.

Time for a walk and some reflection

Take the opportunity to properly explore this domain which covers no less than 14 hectares! There’s a pleasant walk around the lake. Inviting benches and a delightful jetty are ideal spots to take advantage of the tranquillity and splendid view in any season.

Great idea! In summertime, don’t miss the musical entertainment in the pavilion on the lake at the end of the jetty. An enchanting experience!

Copyright pictures: Fly Along