Holiday homes in the Ardennes

For years, the Ardennes have attracted vacationers seeking nature, open spaces, and tranquility—or, conversely, adventure. Depending on your travel goals and the company you’re traveling with, there are various types of accommodations available. For those who want to stay in complete tranquility, nature cottages in the Ardennes are often a logical choice. These cottages are nestled in the middle of the woods or along a small river, far away from traffic and tourist centers. You’ll have plenty of privacy, making them ideal for hiking and biking vacations.

If you’re looking for a compact yet comfortable place to stay, a tiny house in the Ardennes is the perfect solution. These small homes are often sustainably built, cleverly designed, and well-suited for couples or solo travelers who want to spend a few days in nature.

For those looking for something special—a holiday you won’t soon forget—a treehouse holiday in the Ardennes is a great option. You’ll literally spend the night among the trees, often with views of hills or river valleys.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, there’s plenty of choice as well. You can easily find group accommodations in the Ardennes for eight people or more, featuring multiple bedrooms, spacious living areas, and sometimes even a large garden or play area. Larger vacation homes with luxury amenities, such as a pool or sauna, are also widely available. Those who prefer a bit more comfort are more likely to choose a luxury vacation home with, for example, wellness facilities. Especially in the fall and winter, a cottage with a sauna or hot tub offers tremendous added value after a day spent outdoors.

The Ardennes is a vast region that stretches across southeastern Belgium. The location of your holiday home partly determines what you can do and how quickly you can get there.

One of the most popular spots is Durbuy, a town known as the “smallest town in the world.” The atmosphere there is charming and lively, with narrow streets, restaurants, and small shops. If you’d rather stay in an area where nature and outdoor activities take center stage, La Roche-en-Ardenne is a great choice. From the Ourthe Valley, you can set out on hiking trails, go kayaking or mountain biking, and visit historical sites like the castle overlooking the village.

Those who prefer to venture even deeper into nature will find many secluded locations in the south, toward Bouillon and the French border, where peace and quiet take center stage. There, you’ll often find simpler, remote holiday homes and nature lodges. If you’re looking for something with more on-site amenities, vacation parks in the Ardennes are also an option. They’re often smaller and quieter than the well-known parks in the Netherlands, but they do offer comforts such as a restaurant or playground.

The Ardennes are particularly appealing to those who enjoy being active outdoors. In the immediate vicinity of many holiday homes, you can go hiking, biking, or mountain biking. There are marked trails for every skill level, from short forest walks to challenging climbs in hilly terrain.

During the summer months, kayaking on rivers like the Ourthe or the Semois is a popular activity. Many rental locations are near larger villages. You can have a van drop you off and then paddle downstream.

There are also attractions you can easily visit from your vacation rental. These include castles such as those in Bouillon or Reinhardstein, caves like Han-sur-Lesse, or scenic viewpoints in nature reserves such as the High Fens. If you’re traveling with children, you can also visit a wildlife park, a climbing park, or an adventure forest.

Because the distances between villages and nature reserves are short, you can explore multiple destinations on your holiday. That makes a stay in a holiday home flexible and varied.

Want to take your dog on a holiday in the Ardennes? Then check out our wide selection of dog-friendly stays. When choosing, make sure the yard is fully fenced. That way, your pet can safely roam outside while you relax on the patio. You won’t have to constantly keep an eye on them and can truly unwind.

For those seeking peace and quiet who want to avoid the crowds, a nature cabin is the best option. These cabins are often secluded and far from busy areas. You can walk right into the woods from your front door. Whether you choose a simple cabin or a modern lodge, the focus is on the silence around you. This is a great choice if you want to rent a cabin in the Ardennes where all you hear is the sound of birds. Here, you’re truly at one with nature.

When’s the best time to go? The Ardennes are a year-round destination, but your chosen activities will determine the best month to visit. For outdoor activities like mountain biking and rock climbing, spring and early fall are ideal due to the mild temperatures. In the summer, the riverside is wonderful, but popular spots like Durbuy can get very crowded.

In the fall, the forests attract many hikers. The colors are stunning, and it’s often quieter than in the summer. Keep in mind, though, that there’s a higher chance of rain. In winter, chalets and holiday homes offer a cozy base, especially if they’re equipped with a fireplace or sauna. In higher elevations, there may even be snow, with small trails for cross-country skiing or downhill skiing.

When booking, be mindful of school breaks. During these periods, popular accommodations fill up quickly and prices are often higher.

A stay in the Ardennes is ideal for people who love nature, enjoy being active, or want to escape the daily grind. It’s an accessible destination with plenty of variety, without having to travel far. Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, want to get away for a few days with your partner, or are planning a group trip, there are plenty of stays to choose from.

For those who prefer a city trip, are looking for plenty of nightlife, or rely on public transportation, it may be less suitable. But if you’re looking for something special in a green, hilly setting, this is one of the most attractive regions close to home.

Curious about the full range of stays? Check out all the accommodations in the Ardennes or get inspired by unique holiday homes in Belgium.