Ardennes Trail
A long-distance trail through the Belgian Ardennes, following forest paths, river valleys, and sandstone ridges through the most rugged landscape in…
Route overview
The Ardennes Trail is a long-distance route of approximately 160 kilometres through the Belgian Ardennes, the most rugged and forested region of Belgium and Luxembourg. The trail follows the GR 57 and associated local paths through the deep valleys, beech forests, and sandstone ridges that characterise this ancient mountain massif on the border between Belgium, Luxembourg, and France. The route passes through the Ourthe and Amblève river valleys, the Baraque de Fraiture high point, the forests of the Hautes Fagnes, and the historic town of La Roche-en-Ardenne. The landscape is a mix of dense deciduous forest, river gorges, and open heathland. The Ardennes was the setting for the Battle of the Bulge in 1944, and the trail passes several war memorials and museums. The trail is well waymarked and supported by guesthouses and small hotels in the Ardennes villages. The walking is moderate with some steep descents into river valleys. The Ardennes is a popular weekend destination for Belgian and…
A long-distance trail through the Belgian Ardennes, following forest paths, river valleys, and sandstone ridges through the most rugged landscape in Belgium and Luxembourg.
Trail facts
- Country
- Belgium / Luxembourg
- Region
- Belgian Ardennes
- Distance
- c. 160 km
- Typical duration
- 7–9 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 4,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- April–October
- Trail type
- Forest and hill trail
Safety context
Forest sections can be disorienting in poor visibility. Some river valley paths are slippery when wet. Hunting takes place in the Ardennes in autumn and winter.
The trail follows roads in some sections. The Ardennes is popular at weekends and accommodation books up. Some sections are muddy after rain.
Highlights
Liège and the Meuse valley Ourthe river gorge La Roche-en-Ardenne historic town Baraque de Fraiture high point Hautes Fagnes moorland Amblève valley Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge Belgian forest landscapes
Why find a buddy
A week-long forest trail through Belgium's most rugged landscape — a companion shares the river valleys, the forest walking, and the historic towns of the Ardennes.
Primary source
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.