La Roche aux Faucons

This 52km cycling route starting in Esneux is a varied loop that combines iconic climbs, technical descents, and sections along the river. The legendary ascent of the Roche-aux-Faucons, made famous by Liège–Bastogne–Liège, is the highest point of the route, with gradients exceeding 10%. Between the Ourthe and Amblève valleys, Condroz villages, and Ardennes forests, this loop offers a sporting and scenic experience.

The starting point is Esneux, heading towards Dolembreux and Méry, where you cross the Ourthe for the first time. The climb gradually intensifies until you reach Roche-aux-Faucons, famous for its difficulty and spectacular views over the valley.

From the summit, the road passes through Beauregard and Boncelles, before skirting the Arboretum du Bois de la Vecquée and reaching Neupré. You then continue towards Rotheux-Rimière, Berleur and the streams of Tavier and La Magrée, where the route meanders through a verdant, rural landscape.

The second part of the route passes through La Sart, Hody and Anthisnes, then Mont and Comblain-au-Pont, before returning to the Ourthe valley. You cross the Amblève and follow the peaceful banks of Rivage and Champay, until you return to Esneux.

• Length: 4.4 km
• Elevation gain: 240m
• Steepest section: 13.9%
• Average slope: 5.4%
  

• Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons – mythical climb of Liège–Bastogne–Liège.
• Valleys of the Ourthe and Amblève rivers – iconic river landscapes.
• Arboretum du Bois de la Vecquée – remarkable natural area of Neupré.
• Condroz villages – Hody, Anthisnes and Comblain-au-Pont, typical and picturesque.
• Panoramic views of the Beauregard and Rotheux plateaus.

💡   Anecdote: La Roche-aux-Faucons owes its name to the birds of prey that once nested in its cliffs. This climb has become a must-do for Belgian cyclists since it was included in the Flèche Wallonne and Liège–Bastogne–Liège, where it often serves as the deciding factor before the finish.