Wallonia has declared 2016 ‘Bikes welcome’ year, with a dash of local gastronomy thrown in.
Belgium is often referred to as a ‘flat country’, but anyone who has headed into Wallonia will testify to green rolling hills and meandering country roads, which make it the ideal place for a cycling holiday as a couple, family or with friends. And Tourisme Wallonie has come up with suggestions that include another plus the region has to offer: its rich and varied gastronomy.
We have chosen five destinations for you from a very wide choice. All the accommodations have been specially selected and proudly display the ‘Bikes Welcome’ sign. Happy cycling and bon appétit!
Hainaut: A romantic, gastronomic week-end in the hills
Renovated respecting its style and tradition, Château de Bagatelle (formerly Chateau de Bethune) is located in a tranquil area and within its own 4-hectare park.
It is 10 minutes from Tournai and close to the Pays des Collines. The owners suggest a 21 km circuit to discover the nature park, crossing the villages of Frasnes-les-Buissenal, Saint-Sauveur, Dergneau and Arc-Anvaing Ainières. Admire the beautiful castle of Anvaing, surrounded by water and trees and with a wonderful view of the hills. Only slight difficulty of the route is a steep slope where you may need to take a breather at the halfway point.
www.wapinature.be
Luxembourg province: Nature and authenticity in Chassepierre
Come indulge yourself in Gaume. A warm, cozy place to stay and regional, hearty meals are the hallmarks of Le Vieux Logis, a bed and breakfast located centrally in Chassepierre. You can hire a bike, take breakfast and/or dinner in the Relais de Chassepierre, get a guided tour of the village and book a lunch pack.
Enjoy a very pleasant bike ride in the magical setting of the Semois and the forest of Epioux, now wearing its spring colours.
www.luxembourg-belge.be
Liège: Vennbahn Plus
The Vennbahn Plus #9 circuit passes just beyond the famous towns of Malmedy and Stavelot, then continues along the Francorchamps F1 circuit, until you reach Hockai, which boasts the highest former station in Belgium. Then take the Velotour network to the Hautes Fagnes plateau and then downhill in the direction of Waimes. The second loop heads along the Vennbahn to Lake Butgenbach, and from there you will discover several pretty villages in the Belgian Eifel region before you finally reach Waimes.
The two-night stay includes two evening meals with local gastronomic produce and two picnics for the road.
www.eastbelgium.com
