An unforgettable microadventure: three days in the Belgian Ardennes in February

The need for fresh air and experiencing nature led us on a breathtaking three-day hike through the Belgian Ardennes in February. Thanks to the support of Vaude, who provided us with their high-quality waterproof gear, we were well prepared to face the wind and rain and explore the rugged beauty of this region.

Our thirst for adventure woke us up early, and after a quick breakfast we set off. After a train ride from Paris via Luxembourg, we finally reached Libramont, a picturesque village in the heart of the Ardennes. Meeting Haroun, a local who kindly gave us a lift, marked the real start of our hike. The first steps in the dense spruce forests immediately immersed us in an almost surreal world. The nature around us was alive, with bright green moss enveloping the trees and the silence broken only by the crackling of our footsteps.

The dampness of the night gave way to a fresh morning, and with the smell of instant coffee in the air, we set off again. The second day took us through the heart of the Ardennes, past nature reserves and through landscapes that seemed untouched by time. Our route became more varied, with rolling hills and hidden valleys to explore. An unexpected encounter with local fauna and crossing an ancient footbridge over a clear stream were just some of the highlights of the day. In the evening, we were warmly welcomed by Serge, a member of the Welcome to my Garden community. This initiative allowed us to camp in a private garden and gave us an insight into the hospitality and way of life of the locals.

Our final day began with the aim of reaching Saint-Hubert before late afternoon. The hike was characterized by the variety of landscapes: from dense forests to open fields that offered a picturesque view of Saint-Hubert and its famous basilica. Our arrival in the town was in time to follow Serge's recommendation for a local friterie, where we fortified ourselves with Belgian specialties. The return to the train station was a moment of reflection on the adventures and encounters of the last few days.

Creativity and curiosity: Many regions offer much more than you might think - especially at unusual times of year.

Planning is key: find out about camping options in advance and book them well in advance.

Welcome to my Garden: A fantastic way to gain authentic experiences and connect with locals.

Getting there: The train connections - in this case - to Belgium are uncomplicated and offer a relaxed start to the adventure.

Equipment: Especially in winter, as well as when camping or bivouacking, it is crucial to stay dry and warm. Vaude offers environmentally friendly equipment for many activities and weather conditions.

This article was provided to us as an abridged version by Les Others. Click here for the full original article (in French).