There’s a lot to say about the Ardennes. It’s a site of historical significance, having witnessed major battles during both World Wars. It’s a stunning area of natural beauty, rich in flora and fauna. It’s home to idyllic towns and cities like Liège, Spa, Namur, Durbuy, Clervaux, and Charleville-Mézières. It’s the destination of your next adventure, thanks to this complete Ardennes road trip itinerary. We’ve tried to fit in as many of the best places to visit in the Ardennes into this five-day route, but it’s impossible to see all of the incredible sights of the region. So don’t be afraid to extend your trip or simply return again next year!
Getting there
This road trip starts at Dinant, so if you’re coming from the UK, we recommend taking the Eurotunnel to Calais. From here, it should be an hour’s drive to Dinant. If you’d like a stop on the way, consider staying at the stunning Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park. If you’d prefer to take the ferry, you can take the line to Hoek van Holland and then drive three and a half hours south to Dinant. This route does take you via Brussels, so consider the impact of rush hour on your journey. You could also travel there and hire a motorhome in Belgium.
Day 1 - Dinant, Belgium
Let’s get on the road with this Ardennes road trip itinerary, starting in the picturesque town of Dinant. Known for its striking citadel and the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, Dinant is known as the birthplace of the saxophone, so expect plenty of great live music. The town is defined by its dramatic cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop for the beautiful Gothic-style church and the vibrant, colourful buildings below. A great starting point for this road trip with some of the most popular things to do in the Ardennes.
Things to do in Dinant:
-Take a scenic boat trip along the Meuse River to fully appreciate the picturesque landscapes and charming towns that line its banks. It's a relaxing way to experience the region's beauty from a unique perspective.
-Don't miss the chance to try Couque de Dinant, a unique local delicacy made from honey and flour, known for its hard texture and distinctive flavour. This traditional treat offers a taste of Dinant's culinary heritage and makes for a memorable souvenir.
-While in Dinant, visit the Grotte La Merveilleuse, a stunning cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites that offer a fascinating underground adventure. We recommend wearing some closed shoes for this experience!
Staying at: Camping Village Floreal
It’s time to introduce you to the first campsite of your route! Tonight, you’re pitching your motorhome at Camping Village Floreal, a well-regarded campsite along the Meuse River. It offers spacious pitches with electrical hookups, modern facilities, and beautiful views, providing easy access to Dinant’s attractions and the scenic riverfront.
Day 2 - La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium
We hope you slept well and feel ready for the second day of the itinerary. Pack up and tackle the one-hour drive to La Roche-en-Ardenne, a charming riverside town surrounded by lush forests. Beloved by outdoor enthusiasts, La Roche-en-Ardenne offers plenty of options for hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring the scenic natural landscapes. You’ll soon see why this is one of the most popular destinations in the Ardennes.
Things to do in La Roche-en-Ardenne:
-Explore the medieval La Roche Castle, which stands majestically atop a hill overlooking the town and river. The castle's historical exhibits and panoramic views make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Cool off with some kayaking along the Ourthe River. It provides an exhilarating way to experience the region’s natural beauty, with its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.
-Given that the region has played host to numerous battles over the centuries, it’s important to embark on a little history lesson while you’re here. Visit the Battle of the Bulge Museum to gain insight into the area's significant role during World War II and explore exhibits related to the historic conflict.
Staying at: Camping Le Belvédère
A popular motorhome site that provides well-equipped pitches with electrical hookups and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, you’ll definitely enjoy your night at Camping Le Belvédère. Not only is it ideally located for dinner in the nearby town centre, but it’s also a starting point for numerous hiking trails.
8 Rte du Semnoz, 74000 Annecy, France
45.890890, 6.132182
Day 3 - Durbuy, Belgium
You’ve only got a short drive this morning of about half an hour, or forty minutes at the most, so take your time and enjoy a nice cup of coffee before heading out. Durbuy, often called the "smallest city in the world," enchants visitors with its medieval charm and cobbled streets. The town features a delightful array of boutiques, cafes, and the impressive Topiary Park.
Things to do in Durbuy:
-Take a walk in Topiary Park, where you can admire an extensive collection of meticulously sculpted hedges and plants in various artistic shapes. There’s no better way to spend a sunny afternoon!
-Stroll through the Old Town. Discover the quaint cobbled streets of Durbuy's medieval old town, filled with charming boutiques, cosy cafes, and historic architecture.
-Tour the historic Durbuy Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and insight into the region's rich history.
Staying at: Camping le Rocher de la Vierge
Offering spacious pitches with electrical hookups and modern amenities, Camping le Rocher de la Vierge is known to be a lively and social campsite. You’ll meet plenty of fellow motorhome travellers exploring the Ardennes. It's conveniently located near the town centre, allowing easy access to Durbuy’s attractions and scenic spots.
Rue de Fairon 14, 4180 Hamoir, Belgium
50.451050, 5.565078
Day 4 - Bastogne, Belgium
An hour’s drive from Durbuy, you’ll find Bastogne, a beautiful town with an important history. It’s renowned for its significant role in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. The town also offers a charming mix of historical landmarks and local shops, offering some of the best things to do in the Ardennes.
Things to do in Bastogne:
-Visit the Bastogne War Museum to explore extensive exhibits on the Battle of the Bulge and its historical significance. Don't miss the Mardasson Memorial, a striking monument dedicated to the American soldiers who fought in the battle, offering both a solemn tribute and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
-Near Bastogne, you can enjoy scenic hiking routes such as the "Circuit of the Battle of the Bulge," which offers trails through the historic battlefields and lush Ardennes forests. For a more leisurely trek, the "Sûre Valley Trail" provides picturesque views of the river and surrounding countryside, making it ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
-Explore the Bastogne Historical Center to gain a comprehensive understanding of the town's wartime experiences and its pivotal role during World War II. The museum's detailed exhibits and interactive displays offer valuable insights into the historical significance of the Battle of the Bulge.
Staying at: Camping du Vieux Moulin
A popular motorhome site offering spacious pitches with electrical hookups and convenient amenities, Camping du Vieux Moulin is located on the Dutch-Belgian border. The campsite is situated close to the town centre and provides easy access to local attractions and hiking trails, making it an ideal base for exploring Bastogne and the surrounding Ardennes region.
Terbruggen 114, 4851 Plombières, Belgium
50.756574, 5.938586
Day 5 - Eifel National Park, Germany
For the final stop on our Ardennes road trip itinerary, we’re leaving Belgium and crossing the border into Germany. Welcome to the Eifel National Park, which is widely considered to be one of the best places to visit in the Ardennes. Not to be confused with the Eiffel Tower in France, Eifel National Park is home to majestic beech forests, gnarled oak woods and babbling brooks. If you’ve got time to spare, consider spending an extra day here to explore it further.
Things to do in Eifel National Park:
-Visit the park’s visitor centres, such as the National Park-Zentrum Eifel, to learn about the area's unique wildlife and geology through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
-Explore the park’s serene lakes, such as the Rursee, where you can engage in activities like boating or kayaking on the calm waters. Follow this with a lakeside picnic in the sunshine.
-Hiking in Eifel National Park offers a diverse range of trails that wind through lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and scenic viewpoints. Trails like the Wildnis Trail provide an immersive experience in nature, allowing hikers to discover the park's rich biodiversity and stunning natural features.
Staying at: Campingplatz am Rursee
This well-equipped motorhome campsite has beautiful views of the Rursee and easy access to hiking trails. Campingplatz am Rursee provides modern amenities, including electrical hookups, sanitary facilities, and a picturesque setting perfect for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Seerandweg 26, 52152 Simmerath, Germany
50.617745, 6.376359
All the best things must come to an end, including this road trip through the Ardennes. In just five days, you’ve witnessed breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and some of the best places to visit in the Ardennes.
If you’re looking for more adventures in Europe, check out our Black Forest road trip and driving route for Provence.
