Walking Holidays in Belgium: Best Routes, Regions, and What to Expect

Belgium offers a compact and varied setting for a walking holiday, with gentle canal paths, forested hills, historic cities, and riverside trails all within easy reach.

This guide looks at the main regions and walking styles, from relaxed routes in Flanders to more adventurous options in the Ardennes.

Choosing the Right Walking Holiday in Belgium

Most walking holidays in Belgium focus on a single region, city base, or trail area rather than trying to cover the whole country. This keeps travel simple and gives you more time to enjoy the landscapes, towns, and local stops along the way.

• Best for gentle countryside walking → Flemish farmland and canal routes, where flat paths link villages, waterways, and historic towns.
• Best for city-based walking → Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Mechelen, and Leuven, where cultural sightseeing can be combined with relaxed walking routes.
• Best for forest trails → The Ardennes, especially around La Roche-en-Ardenne and the Ourthe Valley.
• Best for dramatic landscapes → The High Fens, with moorland scenery, boardwalk trails, and a wilder feel than much of the country.
• Best for river views → The Semois Valley, where trails follow bends in the river and climb to panoramic viewpoints.

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Why Go To Belgium For A Walking Holiday?

A walking holiday in Belgium might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s a hidden gem just waiting to surprise you if you’re a hiker.

Beyond its famous chocolates and medieval towns, Belgium can rightfully boast of scenic countryside paths, tranquil canal routes, and rolling hills that cater to walkers of all levels.

And with cozy inns, hearty local cuisine, and plenty of historical spots to discover along the way, Belgium is sure to captivate both your taste buds and your sense of adventure.

Located right under the Netherlands and above France, Belgium is perhaps one of the most overlooked countries in Europe for a walking holiday.

In this guide, you’ll find out why.

The Top Destinations in Belgium For a Walking Holiday

Here are the top destinations in Belgium for a walking holiday:

Flemish Farmland and Canals

If you love gentle walks and wide-open fields, the Flemish countryside is your go-to.

Bruges Canal Routes

For those of you who enjoy picturesque waterside strolls, the canals around Bruges are perfect. You can meander through quiet pathways lined with historic architecture, and stop at local cafés for a slice of rich Belgian cake.

Damme to Sluis

This scenic route follows a canal from the tiny town of Damme to the Dutch border in Sluis. You can expect postcard-worthy windmills, green fields, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage passing by.

Ghent’s River Leie Path

If you’re keen on mixing city and nature, you should start in the vibrant center of Ghent and follow the Leie River out into peaceful farmland. You can then loop back by hopping on one of the city’s quaint river ferries.

Ardennes Forest Escapes

For those of you who prefer denser forests and hilly terrain, the Ardennes region offers more of an adventurous edge with woodlands that are comparable to the forests of southwestern Germany’s Black Forest or Poland’s Białowieża region.

La Roche-en-Ardenne

Nestled by the River Ourthe, La Roche-en-Ardenne features trails that wind through thick woodland, and it leads to castle ruins with sweeping valley views. It’s ideal if you want a mix of natural beauty and medieval history.

High Fens (Hautes Fagnes)

This elevated peatland area is one of Belgium’s most dramatic landscapes.

Wooden boardwalks cut through the moor, and in cooler months, a grey mist often adds a mysterious vibe to the surroundings, which you might find interesting. 

Semois Valley

If you’re a fan of winding river views, the Semois Valley has trails that lead to panoramic lookouts above the gentle bends of the river. You can expect dense forests, hidden chapels, and the occasional wild boar sighting.

Historic City Walks

If soaking up culture is your thing, you’ll be glad to hear that Belgium’s cities combine rich history with pleasant walking routes.

Brussels “Green Belt”

For those of you who want a break from the city without leaving it entirely, Brussels’ Green Belt offers forested patches and parks encircling the capital. You’ll pass by stately châteaux and small villages that feel miles away from the hustle.

Mechelen’s Beguinages

This compact city is full of hidden gems, like the beguinages, which are historic enclaves that were once inhabited by religious women. By strolling through these quiet cobblestone lanes you’ll see glimpses into centuries-old houses and local traditions.

Leuven’s University Quarter

Leuven’s youthful energy makes for a lively walk, and especially around the university. The area brims with gothic architecture, beer cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere that will invite you to linger and explore.

Explore More Walking Routes in Belgium

If you’re planning more hikes across the country, these guides can help you explore Belgium’s walking routes, city trails, and regional landscapes in more detail.

• Best Hikes in Belgium
• Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Belgium
• Brussels: A City Guide for Hikers

Example 7-Day Walking Holiday in Belgium

Most walking holidays in Belgium focus on a single region or trail to reduce travel time and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

To give you an idea of how a trip might come together, here’s an example one-week itinerary based in the Ardennes.

Day 1 – Arrive in La Roche-en-Ardenne
Arrive in La Roche-en-Ardenne and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, riverfront, and castle ruins.

Day 2 – La Roche-en-Ardenne woodland walk
Take a circular walk through the surrounding forests and hills, with views across the Ourthe Valley and time to return to town for dinner.

Day 3 – Walk along the River Ourthe
Follow a riverside trail through wooded scenery and small villages. Keep the day moderate so there is time to enjoy the landscape without rushing.

Day 4 – Transfer toward the Semois Valley
Travel south toward the Semois Valley and base yourself in or near Bouillon. Use the afternoon for a short local walk or a relaxed town visit.

Day 5 – Semois Valley viewpoints
Walk one of the classic Semois Valley routes, combining forest paths with viewpoints over the river bends and surrounding hills.

Day 6 – Forest trails and historic stops
Choose another Semois or Ardennes forest route, with time to visit a castle, village, or riverside café along the way.

Day 7 – Short final walk and departure
Enjoy a shorter morning walk before travelling onward or returning to Brussels for departure.

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Best Time of Year for a Walking Holiday in Belgium

Belgium can be walked for much of the year, but spring through autumn usually offers the best balance of daylight, trail conditions, and comfortable temperatures.

Spring: A good time for countryside walks, fresh greenery, flowers, and mild weather, especially in Flanders and around canal routes.

Summer: Best for long daylight hours, city-and-countryside combinations, and relaxed café stops, though popular towns can be busier.

Autumn: One of the best seasons for the Ardennes, with cooler walking weather, forest colours, and quieter trails.

Winter: Possible for city walks and shorter countryside routes, but expect colder weather, shorter days, and muddier trails in rural areas.

Typical Costs of a Walking Holiday in Belgium

Belgium is generally a mid-range walking holiday destination, with costs depending on whether you stay in cities, countryside guesthouses, or more unique accommodation.

Accommodation: €80–€180 per night for hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, or countryside stays

Food: €15–€30 for a casual meal, with higher prices in major cities or more traditional restaurants

Transport: €5–€25 for many regional train or bus journeys, depending on distance

Self-guided tours: Around €700–€1,400 per week, depending on route, luggage transfers, accommodation level, and included services

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What Will You Expect on a Walking Holiday in Belgium?

Here’s what you can really expect from a fun walking holiday in Belgium:

Adventures Beyond Walking

For those of you who love mixing your walking holiday with other experiences, Belgium has plenty to keep you entertained off the trails.

If you’re a history buff, you should consider visiting World War I sites around Ypres or the World War II Battle of the Bulge memorials in the Ardennes.

Many are just a short trip from popular walking routes and give a glimpse into the country’s past. 

In Belgium, the walking is often only part of the day’s experience — the rest comes from historic towns, local festivals, breweries, canals, and cultural stops close to the trails.

Or, for something more lighthearted, you could take a chocolate-making workshop in Brussels or Bruges, where you’ll learn to craft those rich Belgian pralines everyone raves about.

If you’ve had your fill of walking, switch things up with a cycling tour along the same canals you’ve been walking next to. It’s a breeze to rent a bike in many cities.

Beer enthusiasts can also check out local breweries or beer-tasting events, like in Leuven or Antwerp, to sample some of Belgium’s world-famous brews. 

And if you time your trip right, you might just catch a local festival, complete with music, parades, and maybe even a giant puppet or two (looking at you, Doudou Festival in Mons).

The Food and Drink Experience

Anyone who’s ever heard the words “Belgian chocolate” knows that this country takes its culinary creations seriously.

And for those of you who enjoy satisfying your appetite after a good walk, Belgium has a lot more on the menu than just sweets. 

You can start with moules-frites, which are a big pot of mussels in a savory broth and usually paired with perfectly crispy fries.

Or you could try Carbonnade Flamande, which is a rich beef stew slow-cooked in beer until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Then you can combine these dishes with a local brew (Belgium is famous for its Trappist ales and a thriving craft beer scene) and you’ve basically uncovered the country’s culinary heart.

Food is a major part of the rhythm of a Belgian walking holiday, whether that means a market picnic, a canal-side café stop, or a hearty meal after a forest walk.

If you’re more of a sweet tooth, don’t miss a fresh Liege waffle, which is dense and caramelized on the outside, and often served with a dollop of whipped cream or chocolate sauce.

And yes, the chocolates are a must. Wander into a chocolaterie in Brussels or Bruges and you’ll be spoiled by intricate pralines, ganaches, and truffles. Many shops will happily let you sample a piece or two.

Local markets are another treat, as they showcase cheeses, pastries, and regional specialties (depending on the season).

If you’re walking through smaller towns, you might stumble upon a weekend market where locals stock up on everything from artisanal bread to homemade preserves. It will be the perfect chance to grab a picnic lunch for your next trail. 

Fun Accommodations

For those of you who love unique places to rest your head, Belgium’s got plenty of fun accommodation options that go way beyond the standard hotel room or hostel dorm.

Imagine staying in a converted canal boat in Ghent or Bruges, where you can wake up to gentle lapping water and watch swans glide by while you sip your morning coffee.

If you’re feeling more country chic, look out for old farmhouses turned into B&Bs in Flanders. Many keep their rustic charm but add modern comforts like a cozy fireplace and hearty breakfasts made from local produce.

Belgium’s accommodation options can make the trip feel especially memorable, from converted canal boats and countryside B&Bs to boutique hotels and château stays.

If city life is calling your name, Brussels and Antwerp can boast of trendy boutique hotels with quirky décor and on-site bars that serve artisanal Belgian beers.

Some properties even take over historic buildings, and they offer a blend of old-world charm and sleek modern design.

You might find stained-glass windows in your room, alongside high-tech amenities.

And then there are the châteaux. Yep, these are actual castles that were converted into hotels. In the Wallonia region, it’s not too hard to find a small château-turned-guesthouse, and often with sprawling gardens or wooded grounds.

It’s the perfect way to feel like royalty for a night, especially after a day spent exploring forest trails or winding rivers!

Conclusion

A walking holiday in Belgium might not be as obvious a choice as its famous chocolate or beer, but it’s every bit as delightful.

Throw in the welcoming locals, a top-notch food scene, and some truly unique kinds of places to stay, and you should have everything you need for a relaxed and culture-rich adventure on foot.

Where to Next?

If Belgium has made you curious about more walking holidays in Europe, there are plenty of nearby countries, city bases, and long-distance trails that offer a different style of adventure on foot.

Nearby or Related Destinations

• Walking Holidays in the Netherlands
• Best Hikes in Luxembourg
• Amsterdam: A City Guide for Hikers

Wider European Inspiration

• Walking Holidays in France
• Best Hikes in Germany
• The West Highland Way