The best traffic-free bike rides around Escombres-Et-Le-Chesnois

Bench with a beautiful view!

The most famous representative of the dynasty, Godfrey of Bouillon (Duke of Lower Lorraine, c. 1060 to 1100), takes us back in time to the late 11th century. Geographically, however, the life story of this man takes us far from his homeland: across the Mediterranean to the Holy Land. He participated as a leading figure in the First Crusade and the conquest of Jerusalem. After the city's capture, he was to become king of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, but he rejected such a title, arguing that the only king over Jerusalem could be Christ himself, who was crucified and buried here—and resurrected.

The current castle is very recent. It was built in 1960 at the request of the owners, the Otreppe de Bouvette family, based on plans by architect Emile Godin. The previous castle was severely damaged in both world wars and fell into disrepair.

This beautiful suspension bridge is 55 meters long and is located at the intersection of several hiking trails. The Moulin de l’Épine footbridge was built to connect hikes from Botassart and Corbion. The bridge only opened in 2020 after years of legal wrangling. A wooden watchtower stands on both banks of the Semois River. The Moulin de l’Épine footbridge consists of 22 galvanized steel elements with wooden planks held up by two strong cables. The bridge wobbles and sways quite a bit when hikers walk across it, but is otherwise as safe as can be. (TravelValley)

The fortified castle of Bouillon is situated on three rocky ridges and offers stunning views of the city. During your visit, you can also take in a falconry performance. Falconry was a true art form during the Middle Ages. You can conclude your visit with the Scriptura Museum, which chronicles the history of education, and the exhibition of the fresco "The Armed Pilgrimage of Godfrey of Bouillon." The castle is open daily.

The "Conques" viaduct is located 1 km from the village center of Herbeumont. Construction of the viaduct began in 1902 by the Chagnaud and Cox companies. The viaduct was the first completed structure for railway line 163a. It took two years to build and is said to have used 9 million bricks. The brick construction of graceful, high arches, the central one reaching almost 40 meters above the Semois, is truly impressive. Although construction was completed in 1904, it would be another 10 years before the first trains (under German occupation) rolled over the viaduct! (Trails and hikes)

À l’Ange Gardien is a surprising place; as part of the world-famous Orval site, it undoubtedly contributes to the region's tourism development. The fully renovated and modernized building meets all modern needs and requirements (proximity to parking, accessibility for people with disabilities, Wi-Fi, etc.). Here, you can enjoy the widest selection of Orval products. Both the beer and cheese are at their finest. L’Ange Gardien also exclusively serves Orval on tap, better known as the Green Orval. (À l’Ange Gardien)

A nature park is a rural area of high biological and geographical value, subject to environmental protection measures in harmony with the needs of the population and the economic and social development of the area. Unlike a nature reserve, a protected area where human activities are strictly regulated, the Gaume Nature Park adopts an integrated approach to developing its rural territory and serves as a laboratory for implementing sustainable development. The Gaume Nature Park initiates and supports the development of projects focused on: local rural dynamism, innovation and experimentation, and sustainable development. (Parc Naturel de Gaume)