Belgium's hidden treasures

15/05/2018

Covering an area of 30,528 km², our country has more to offer than one might think. Belgium boasts some wonderful nature, caves, cycle routes and walking trails, historic sites, mines, and much more besides. Have you already discovered these hidden treasures? They are certainly worth a visit.

Blegny-Mine

An authentic coal mine just a stone's throw from Liege. Ready for a unique experience? Catch a cage lift down to the underground gallery and discover another world. Find out about the joys, worries and working conditions of mine workers. Blegny-Mine is one of four mines in Wallonia to have been recognised by UNESCO as world heritage.

  
© Toerisme provincie Luik 

 
Verbeke Foundation

A modern and up-to-date museum combining culture, nature and ecology, and located in the East-Flemish district of Kemzeke. With 12 hectares of nature and 20,000 m² under cover, the Verbeke Foundation is one of the largest private initiatives for contemporary art in Europe. Can't get enough of it? You can even spend the night in a work of art!

 
©Verbeke Foundation  
 

The High Fens Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is a piece of unspoilt nature in the Ardennes and one of the last areas in Europe where you can find some high fens. It's a delightful area for walks and bike rides covering a grand total of 5000 hectares. Want more Ardennes nature? Walk along Les Epioux in the Gaume region to the so-called Cat Rock Gorge, where you can enjoy magnificent views over the valley.

 

©Shutterstock  

The ship lifts at La Louvière

Discover the four hydraulic ship lifts at the historic Central canal between the Meuse and the Scheldt rivers. This piece of UNESCO world heritage was built between 1888 and 1917 to allow ships across the slope of 66 metres.

 
© Gaetan Sgualdino 

 
Flemish beguinages

Beguinages are a fascinating reminder of the traditions of the Beguines dating back to the 13th century. They consist of houses and churches, built in a typical Flemish style, together with some patches of green. Discover this world heritage in Leuven, Bruges, Sint-Truiden, Mechelen, and Tongeren.

 
© Toerisme Vlaanderen

 
Be sure to keep an eye on this page as we will soon be adding lots more locations that are not to be missed!