Moving to a brand new country is incredibly exciting. However, it can also take a lot of time and careful planning. The good news is that those stressful times won’t last forever, and before you know it, you will be settled in your beautiful new home, ready to explore the world around you.
If you are moving to Belgium, then once you are ready to get out there, you are going to be more than impressed by the sheer volume of things that there are in the country. Many of which are popular with tourists from around the world.
But, what if you are looking for something a little bit different? Something that is somewhat off the beaten track?
To give you some inspiration, we have put together some of the very best hidden gems that Belgium has to offer, helping you to create a list of places to visit after you have moved there.
1. Reinhardstein Waterfall in Ovifat
The highest waterfall in Belgium (although it is worth saying that this isn’t that high compared to others in the world) the Reinhardstein Waterfall in Ovifat is still a great waterfall to make a trip to visit.
Found near the Reinhardstein Castle, there are some beautiful views in the area and some fun hikes that you can do alongside your visit.
2. The Wizard’s Cabin near Namur
If you fancy a slice of fairytale and fantasy in your life, then you are going to want to try and hunt down the Wizard’s Cabin that is found near Namur.
It is important to note that this is a place that is surrounded by nature and is somewhat private in its location, which means that if you want to try and find this somewhat secret hidden gem, you are going to need to get into exploration and detective mode!
3. The Rochefort Hobbit House
Fans of The Lord of the Rings will know that the very best place to see hobbit houses is going to be New Zealand, but let’s face it, budget and time may not really allow for a quick visit there.
Instead, if you want to see a hobbit house in the very small flesh, then you are going to need to head to the Domaine de Chevetogne in Rochefort. Not only is there a hobbit house there, but you will also find a beautiful park with forests and ponds aplenty.
4. Las Passerelle du Moulin de l’Epine in Bouillon
If you don’t mind heights, then this incredible hanging bridge is always worth a visit. Some of those who were born and raised in Belgium don’t even know about this particular spot, which means that it can truly be counted as a hidden gem.
That said, it has proven particularly popular with hikers, so don’t be surprised if you stumble across a few walkers on the way.
5. Mehnirs in Weris
Whilst there are lots of standing stones around the world (Stonehenge we are looking at you here), you cannot beat the mystery that only these amazing stones can bring.
These particular stones are thought to date back to the Neolithic period, which makes them over 5000 years old. They cover a region of around 8km, and, just like the other standing stone formations around the world, not much is known about why they are there and how they got there in the first place.
6. Saint Remacle Cave in Auby-sur-Semois
Hidden deep into the forest in Auby-sur-Semois you will find the Saint Remacle Cave. A limestone rock that overhands the Semois river, this cave has been carved into the stone and contains an alter that is dedicated to the Saint Remacle.
As well as being a fascinating place to visit, it is also in an area that is well-known for having hiking trails, which means that you can also enjoy some scenic walks whilst trying to find the cave.
7. Chateau de Walzin in Dinant
Whilst it has to be said that this particular castle probably cannot be claimed to be a “hidden gem” as you may find it relatively easily, however, it is one that really needs to be seen to be believed.
The views at this castle are stunning and they make for some incredibly beautiful photos. It is worth noting that this castle is somewhat private in its location, however, you can take it in from a distance if you need to.
8. Celles
If you want to explore an entire village rather than one single landmark then Celles is one to have on the list. Not only can you take a day-trip there, but if you want to extend your stay, then you can also stay there too.
Along with flowers and plants aplenty in the village, you will also find lots of limestone houses that are almost picture perfect.
The Abbey of Villers-la-Ville
Built in the 13th century, the Abbey was abolished in 1796 and has since then, stood empty. During the 19th century it was decided that restorations should start and despite this now being in place for over 100 years they are still not finished.
Despite this, there are lots of hidden corners that you can explore in the ruins including what was once the kitchen, the herb garden and even a vineyard.
One of the many quarries
Rather than being one singular location, there are a variety of different quarries around Belgium, many of which are filled with water. Their nature means that they look like stunning deep green lakes, which is something that you wouldn’t necessarily think of when it comes to being in Belgium.
It is really important to remember that you must not swim in these quarries, even if the water does look inviting!
The takeaway
The very best way to get to know your brand-new home is to explore it. Hopefully, we have inspired you to do just that. Find out more about what this incredible country can offer you, in addition to being your new place to live.
Get in touch with us here at Pinnacle to find out more about how we can help you to move to Europe with minimal stress and strain when you are making that big move.
Credit for image:
Marc Ryckaert (MJJR), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons