Tourism in Bastogne: A guide to the must-sees

Bastogne: Discover the must-sees

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19 October 2026

Bastogne is a city of remembrance, where numerous monuments and remains remind us of its key role during the Battle of the Bulge. These commemorative visits can easily be combined with a variety of cultural, culinary, and sporting activities.

Looking to get away from it all and escape the everyday for the next few days? Then a short break in the Belgian Ardennes is the perfect solution. Which town can you visit? Whatever the weather, Bastogne is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

What can you do in Bastogne ? A host of activities await you: walks in the heart of nature , sports, discovering Ardennes crafts , fascinating cultural visits, and unique folklore. And to end your days, nothing beats relaxing in a good restaurant or at the cinema, for example.

Yes, definitely, your next stay in Bastogne A trip with your family, friends or colleagues will be unforgettable! Here's an overview of the activities not to be missed in the Bastogne region.

Bastogne town centre (© Ardenne Résidences)

Walks, hikes and natural sites in Bastogne

If you're looking for a peaceful place to completely disconnect, the Ardennes countryside is ideal. Beautiful walks, hikes, forests, and nature reserves await you in Bastogne.

Bois Jacques and its Fox Holes

Le Bois Jacques , listed as a This exceptional heritage site in Wallonia , located in Foy, has a unique historical past. Indeed, during the Second World War, American soldiers hid in the famous "Fox Holes," which are still visible today.

Le Bois de la Paix

Not far from there, Le Bois de la Paix (The peace forest) is, for its part, a true place of remembrance in homage to the American victims of the Second World War . 4,000 trees have been planted there, and each one includes plaques mentioning the names of American veterans.

The walking routes of the Bastogne Tourist Office

Do you want to tone your legs, clear your mind, and opt for a A marked walking trail ? The Bastogne Tourist Office lists various routes on its website , including a A historical walking tour of the city center. It's the perfect way to discover the hidden treasures of the surrounding area!

Le Bois de la Paix (© traces-memoire.luxembourg-belge.be)

The Haute-Sûre forest of Anlier Natural Park (© visiteardenne.com)

Elisabeth Park

This This very pleasant park is well worth a visit, especially if you're visiting with children. You'll find a maze , and... bodies of water , as well as various plants and other fruit trees. Exhibitions and concerts are regularly held there.

Nature park: Haute-Sûre forest of Anlier

This This 833 km² natural park is located around the basin de la Haute Sûre and the Anlier forest massif . It encompasses several municipalities and boasts a fabulous historical and architectural heritage. It's the perfect place for wonderful walks!

Bourcy Nature Reserve

The Bourcy Nature Reserve is a Site of Great Biological Interest covering 64 hectares. If you choose to venture there, you can observe splendid biodiversity , as well as several uncommon birds.

For more hiking routes, visit wikiloc.com

Looking to explore other routes on foot, by bike, or even by motorcycle, shared by other adventurers? You'll find what you're looking for on the website wikiloc.com You can easily filter by location and by type of activity .

All wikiloc routes in the Bastogne region can be viewed on wikiloc.com.

Treasure hunt

Add a touch of adventure to your stay in Bastogne by opting for A treasure hunt . This way, you'll discover the city in a fun and unique way, solving riddles as you go. Tempted? Download the free Totemus app and then select the Bastogne treasure hunt. .

 

Sports activities in Bastogne

During your stay, do you plan to dedicate a few days, or even just a few hours, to getting back into shape? Or do you want to have fun with a sporting activity? You're sure to find something to enjoy in Bastogne, whatever the weather.

Horse riding and carriage rides

If you are sensitive to the equestrian world, or if you wish to explore the surrounding area in another way, opt for a a carriage ride or a special moment with horses is a great idea. Contact Georges Paquay Gaston to book your horseback ride!

Cycling and mountain biking: rentals, routes and the Liège-Bastogne-Liège race

Prefer to explore the region by bike? You can bring your own or rent one locally. You'll find all the best addresses for mountain biking and cycling routes , as well as rental shops in the area, on the Bastogne Tourist Office website . There are several routes to choose from, depending on your skill level.

Are you passionate about cycling? If so, don't miss the famous Liège-Bastogne-Liège race , reserved for professionals, every year. A truly unique event!

Swimming pool and wellness area

If the weather is unpredictable, and if you don't have this option in your holiday home You have the option of swimming a few laps at the Swimming pool at the Bastogne Sports Centre . And to relax, don't hesitate to also enjoy the wellness area with hammam . sauna and jacuzzi .

Liège-Bastogne-Liège

Rock climbing and mountaineering

Are you drawn to mountaineering and climbing? If so, there are two clubs in Bastogne that offer opportunities to improve your skills or take an introductory session:

  • Hard'n Rock offers indoor climbing, but also outings in natural environments .
  • Spirit of Altitude organizes training courses in hiking, mountaineering, via ferrata and climbing. Children can also take courses at the Bastogne Sports Centre.

 

Markets, crafts and gastronomy in Bastogne

In addition to the superb natural heritage and local sporting activities, you will certainly want to learn more about the local Bastogne specialties, crafts, and unique folklore of the region.

Animalaine: a living museum about wool

This The animal park and interactive living museum about wool is a fun activity to do with children or friends when you visit Bastogne. In addition to discovering the animals and the stages of wool production, you have the opportunity to discover local products .

The Schumer-Widart farm

If you're curious to discover how cheese, yogurt, and ice cream are made in the area, head to the Schumer-Widart farm , located next to Animalaine. Learn about the livestock and the various stages of production. Then, at the end of your visit, taste and treat yourself to these delicious dairy products!

Come and meet the animals at Animalaine Park

Murielle Courtois' artisanal cured meats

Ardennes cured meats are renowned for their excellent quality. Murielle Courtois respects tradition by working with ham and game using artisanal methods, giving them an incomparable taste.

Phil'Cuisine: artisanal cannery

This artisanal meat cannery produces all sorts of preparations from pork, game, and duck. You'll find delicious pâtés, rillettes, confits, and other marinated preparations made with local beer at Phil'Cuisine . as well as in retail outlets in the region.

Joce des Abeilles: honey house

A producer you absolutely must not miss when you're in the area: beekeeper Joce des Abeilles During the visit you will discover the beehives, the history of bees, as well as the honey production . And of course, finishing with a tasting of the products!

 

Heritage, culture, history and folklore in Bastogne

If you want to learn all about the Belgian Ardennes: the region's historical past, its rich heritage, as well as its cultural and folkloric life, you've come to the right place!

Bastogne War Museum

The Bastogne War Museum This is the major memorial site dedicated to the Second World War in Belgium. It is the place to absolutely visit to learn everything about these historical events, and in particular about the Battle of the Bulge .

The Mardasson Memorial (© Ardenne Résidences)

Mardasson Memorial

This monument is also an important memorial site dedicated to the American soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. From the top of the Mardasson Memorial You can admire a superb panoramic view .

German military cemetery (Recogne)

This impressive military cemetery , located in Recogne, contains 7,000 graves of soldiers who died during the Second World War. This memorial site is listed as a World Heritage Site. Public civil heritage of Wallonia , and worth discovering.

Bastogne barracks

If you would like to know more about the events of the World War II, This museum and military vehicle restoration center is also a must-see in the region. It is, in fact, a former German, then American, headquarters.

Saint Peter's Church in Bastogne

Saint Peter's Church It is the oldest church in the city. It has witnessed eight centuries of history and has been restored several times, from the Romanesque period to the Gothic style. Don't hesitate to visit this essential piece of heritage!

Piconrue: Museum of the Greater Ardennes and House of Legends

To learn more about the history of the Belgian Ardennes, but also about Ardennes folklore and traditions, don't forget to stop by Piconrue , a A fascinating museum. You will discover a space dedicated to the Ages of Life, the House of Legends, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The Giants of Bastogne

These Folkloric characters are an integral part of Bastogne's cultural life. The Giants of Bastogne come out for major city events, especially for Carnival . Perhaps you'll be lucky enough to see some during your stay?

Brotherhood of the Herdsmen of the Ardennes

The Brotherhood of Herdsmen of the Ardennes Its mission is to defend the famous Ardennes ham, and to promote tourism in Bastogne, by organizing, in particular, some events.

The Pat'Carnaval and its entertainment

Every year, the The Pat'carnaval committee organizes a unique carnival in the town of Bastogne. And if you happen to be in the area at that time, don't miss it! A host of activities are planned: a parade, a large bonfire, musical entertainment, shows… A folk event not to be missed.

A colourful atmosphere at the Bastogne carnival! (© visitwallonia.be)

Recreational activities in Bastogne

During your stay in Bastogne, whether with your children, friends, or colleagues, you might simply enjoy some recreational and relaxing activities in addition to the activities and visits suggested above. Here are a few worthwhile options in the surrounding area:

Bison farm in Recogne

Within this   outdoor bison farming During the summer months, you will be able to observe a   A herd of 200 plains bison . If you wish, you also have the option of tasting the products from the farm directly at the farm restaurant.

Naturâne

If you are visiting Bastogne with your children and would like to show them the world of the farm, this natural donkey breeding  This is the perfect place. It's one of the largest producers of donkey milk in Europe, and you can also buy products made from the farm such as soap, moisturizer, etc. A great activity to do with the family.

Fishing: fishing enthusiasts in Wardin-Benonchamps-Longvilly

Are you a fan of fishing In that case, the beautiful journey of will allow you to capture beautiful specimens, not far from the centre of Bastogne, and in a magnificent setting.

Movie theater

Looking to enjoy a good movie during your stay? Head to CineXtra which offers a varied and up-to-date program. It's the ideal activity when the weather isn't cooperating, or for spending a relaxing evening with friends or family.

 

The most beautiful villages of the Ardennes near Bastogne

If you have the opportunity to stay several days in Bastogne, in addition to all the activities suggested above, you might also have time to visit the most beautiful villages in the region. We've compiled a list of nearby towns and villages worth discovering, not far from your accommodation. You'll love them!

Hardigny

This hamlet, part of the municipality of Bastogne, is also worth a visit if you want to learn more about the region's history, particularly the events of the Second World War: a great complement to your explorations of Bastogne. Indeed, every year in Hardigny, a full-scale reenactment of the Battle of the Bulge takes place: an event not to be missed!

Freux

For a short getaway in a beautiful, more natural setting, the village of Freux, not far from Libramont, is a great idea. You can start by taking a stroll through the grounds of the Château de Freux, which is a starting point for wonderful walks in the Ardennes countryside. If you enjoy fly fishing for trout, you'll find your paradise in the superb setting of... Freux ponds . Don't hesitate to visit Freux if you're staying in Bastogne!

Site of the Freux fish farm (©visitwallonia.be)

The little touch of Ardenne Résidences

Are you planning a few days of escape to the Belgian Ardennes, and specifically to Bastogne, in the coming days or weeks? It's a city you'll love, for many reasons! Regardless of your age, interests, or the season, you'll find activities to enjoy.

Indeed, the city abounds with superb natural sites in the heart of the Ardennes countryside, typical regional specialties to taste directly from producers or in restaurants, fascinating historical and memorial sites surrounding the events of the Second World War, and an exceptional heritage.

Ardenne Résidences: Local, Committed & Transparent

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