The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in the Ardennes

The Ardennes offers a vast network of trails suitable for you and your dog. On komoot, you'll find over 1000 dog-friendly hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

The Ardennes boasts incredibly diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque river valleys carved by the Ourthe, Meuse, and Semois. Many trails feature rocky paths, especially around formations like Le Hérou, and some areas like the High Fens offer unique moorland landscapes with wooden footbridges. Always be prepared for varied surfaces, which can include muddy sections after rain.

Yes, there are many easy circular routes perfect for a relaxed walk with your dog. An excellent option is the La roche plate — loop from Houffalize, which is just over 4.5 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a leisurely outing in the Parc Naturel des Deux Ourthes.

The Ardennes is rich in natural beauty. You can explore stunning river valleys, impressive rock formations like Le Hérou, and captivating waterfalls. Consider a hike that takes you near the Bayehon Waterfall, nestled in a deep, wooded gorge, or the more dramatic Coo Waterfall. Many trails also follow the scenic Hoëgne River, known for its charming wooden bridges.

Absolutely! The Ardennes is known for its panoramic views. Many trails along the Ourthe and Semois rivers offer stunning vistas. For example, the area around Le Hérou provides breathtaking views of the green valleys and winding river. You might also find trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking charming towns or historical sites, such as the View of the Abbey's castle.

The Ardennes is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn transforms the forests into vibrant hues of orange and red, offering spectacular scenery. Summers are generally pleasant for hiking, but always ensure you carry enough water for your dog and yourself, especially on longer routes. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, the Ardennes has plenty to offer. The Cascade de Coo — loop from Stavelot is a difficult 23 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience. Another challenging option is the Vayamundo walk in Houffalize, which covers over 22 km through Wallonia's scenic landscapes.

The Ardennes is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forests, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking with dogs enjoyable. Many appreciate the clear markings and the stunning natural features like rivers and rock formations.

The Ardennes region is home to twelve nature parks, many of which are excellent for dog-friendly hiking. The Nature Park of the two Ourthes and the Hautes Fagnes - Eifel Nature Park are particularly notable, offering extensive networks of well-laid-out footpaths through diverse landscapes. These protected areas are managed sustainably, providing beautiful and safe environments for you and your dog to explore.

While many trails in the Ardennes are best accessed by car, some areas and towns do offer public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for specific starting points of trails. For example, routes near larger towns like Houffalize or Stavelot might have better public transport links. Always confirm if dogs are permitted on public transport before planning your trip.

Yes, several dog-friendly trails in the Ardennes offer views of or pass by beautiful lakes and reservoirs. You might find routes around the Robertville Dam or the Nisramont Dam. The area around Coo also features the Lower Coo Reservoir, providing scenic waterside walking opportunities.

When planning your hike, always check the trail difficulty and length to match your dog's fitness level. Bring plenty of water for both of you, especially on warmer days. Be aware of local regulations regarding dogs, such as leash requirements, particularly in nature reserves or near livestock. Pack out all waste, and consider dog-friendly first aid supplies. Some trails can be rocky or muddy, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.