Plombières : Découverte des incontournables

The Plombières region was once known for its lead and zinc mines – traces of mining have been found dating back to the 14th century! The activity ceased in the early 1970s and a very specific landscape, known as the " calamine landscape ", developed there thanks to the zinc-rich ore present in the subsoil: calamine.

Today, the area boasts beautiful rolling landscapes covered in meadows and devoid of trees. You can observe unique flora and fauna : calamine violets, round-leaved bellflowers, and wild thyme thrive in this extreme ecological environment. As for fauna, the dry grasslands are a haven for butterflies: small pearl-bordered fritillaries, large blues, and small silver-ringed fritillaries flit about joyfully.

To discover this exceptional site up close, take the Walk du site minier , a route that allows you to explore these unique landscapes while retracing the mining history of the region.

Vaalserberg is the highest point in the Netherlands! Its summit offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the three neighboring countries: Belgium , the Netherlands , and Germany . In Gemmenich, the 50-meter-high Baudouin Tower provides a stunning vantage point for observing our neighbors. It's the starting point for numerous hikes across the three countries. You'll also find a maze , a playground, and several places to eat.

The Gueule Valley is a small, verdant haven straddling the border between Belgium and the Netherlands . It's possible to follow this stream from its source to its confluence with the Meuse River , a distance of nearly 53 kilometers , via the Via Giulia ! It's a magnificent reservoir of biodiversity. Here, the stream flows freely, and the surrounding green meadows are grazed by hardy cows and horses . Who knows, you might even spot some during your visit?

As for the flora and fauna, you can observe Olympus grass , fescue , some badger families or even red-backed magpies ! Not far away, the Gulp valley , a tributary of the Gueule, is also worth a visit.

Ravel Line 38 follows a former railway line through the Herve region . Several stations have been converted into breweries , function rooms , or bakeries . It's a perfect outing for families , as well as for mountain bikers or runners looking for a workout!

Looking to practice your swing ? Perfect timing, Plombières boasts two golf courses nearby! Golf Henri Chapelle offers a hilly terrain typical of the Ardennes . Its three courses (45 holes in total) promise a few hours of play in the verdant setting of the Euregio region . Golf de Mergelhof , near Gemmenich , also offers courses for beginners and experienced golfers alike .

Calling all trail running enthusiasts ! The Euregio Trail offers two permanent routes between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany . If you're feeling adventurous, there's also the Euregio Meuse-Rhine Trail (EMR) , linking several major cities in Belgium , the Netherlands , and Germany along a route of over 900 kilometers !

For mountain bikers and cyclists , the numbered junction system makes it easy to create custom routes in the beautiful Plombières region and beyond. A great way to discover the area at your own pace!

Fishing enthusiasts can indulge their passion in the ponds of Dellegraet , Château de Graaf , or the Berg fishery .

When winter arrives, the terrain of the High Fens lends itself to the joys of skiing when there is snow.

The Christophe Born bakery , located in Plombières , is known for its artisanal breads and pastries . It prioritizes traditional methods, offering an authentic taste and quality recognized by the locals.

Le Cochon embouteillé offers dishes that blend regional products with creativity . Baked eggs, trout fillet, Belgian cheeses… A festival of flavors awaits you. Enjoy your meal!

A favorite among food lovers, the Auberge de Moresnet offers a modern take on traditional regional cuisine . The dishes showcase local produce and change with the seasons. The establishment boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for lunch or dinner as a couple or with family!

The Grain d'Orge craft brewery , located in the village of Hombourg, is renowned for its distinctive beers , such as Joup, Brice, and Canaille. Guided tours are offered every Saturday at 4:30 pm – other options are available for groups of 10 or more. All tours include a tasting .

On the Dutch side, nestled in the heart of the Limburg countryside, Boscafé 't Hijgend Hert is a rustic establishment tucked away in the forest, claiming to be the only "mountain hut" in the Netherlands ! It serves as the perfect stop for hikers looking to take a break with a drink and a snack . The atmosphere is friendly, and the view of the wooded hills adds to the charm of the place.

Although located outside the Plombières municipality, the Sunday market in Aubel is one of the most renowned in the region. It offers a wide range of fresh, local produce (cheeses, syrups, ciders, etc.). You will also find markets in Welkenraedt, La Calamine, and Herve.

Perched on a hill, the Calvary of Moresnet is a place of contemplation overlooking the surrounding valley. It is one of the stations of a monumental Way of the Cross marked by small chapels resembling grottoes, created by the inhabitants at the end of the 19th century. The ascent is a gentle one along a shaded path and opens onto a remarkable panorama .

Graaf Castle , also known as Streversdorp Castle , is located in Montzen. It is a medieval castle with a square plan. Its foundations are thought to have been laid in the 13th century, but legend has it that they date back to the year 900! Its limestone facade makes it quite imposing in the landscape. Nearby, the Broich Castle chapel is a listed historical monument.

22 metal spans , 1,107 meters long and 52 meters high . These are just some of the measurements of the Moresnet Viaduct ! For a time, it was the longest bridge on the Belgian railway network. Built under German occupation during the First World War, it was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today, the train connects the port of Antwerp to central Germany and is still used by many freight trains.

Alensberg Castle , whose main building was likely constructed around the 15th century , has had a turbulent history. During the Second World War , it served alternately as a refuge for the local population and as a headquarters for American troops . In 1944 , the roof and windows were shattered by a German explosion . The repairs were so costly that the owner decided to demolish the main building. However, recent years have brought a glimmer of hope: the current owners plan to renovate part of the castle .

Other castles near Plombières are worth a visit. The Château des Gênets stands out for its composite style, blending different building materials: rubble stone, brick, and blue stone. The Château d'Eulenburg displays a predominantly Neo-Gothic style, with conical-roofed towers, crenellated gables, turrets, and pointed-arch windows. In Sippenaeken, the moated Château de Beusdael boasts remarkable architecture. Finally, the Château de Eyneburg , also known as Emma's Castle , is a medieval site perched on a hill: legend has it that Charlemagne's daughter secretly met her lover there!

If you are passionate about Ardennes castles, we recommend the Route des Châteaux , a circuit of nearly 80 kilometers that will allow you to discover about twenty sites!

Located near Plombières , the Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery is the final resting place of many American soldiers who fell during World War II . This memorial site, one of the largest in the country, offers a space for reflection and historical remembrance.

The Terbruggen watermill , a true historical monument situated on the banks of a stream, is the last mill on the Belgian part of the Gueule valley. It illustrates the essential role of hydroelectricity in past agricultural activities.

Located in Lontzen, the S'pace Kids – Magic Planet center offers a 600 m² indoor play area for children, with various play structures. You'll also find bowling lanes , a gaming area , and a food court . Ideal for rainy days!

At Parc du Vieux Saule in Herve, you will find an outdoor playground with a roller skating rink , perfect for family activities.

Plombières is brimming with attractions to explore: calamine landscapes , castles , unique culinary experiences … This region, straddling three countries, is well worth a visit, whether you're a culture enthusiast, a sports fan, or a nature lover! To fully enjoy the experience and extend your stay, be sure to check out the list of holiday homes in Plombières: everything you need to make the most of all the region has to offer!