When temperatures rise and the days grow longer, Belgium reveals a completely different face. Between wild valleys, deep forests, mysterious peatlands and rocky panoramas, our small country is full of incredibly immersive trails. There's no need to cross the Alps for a real adventure: some Belgian hikes genuinely give you the feeling of being far away from everything.

Here is a selection of the most beautiful walks and hikes to do in Belgium this summer, chosen for their scenery, their atmosphere and the genuine pleasure they offer on foot.

The Ninglinspo: the must-do hike in the Ardennes

If you could only choose one, this would probably be it.

The Ninglinspo, near Aywaille, is often considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Belgium. And honestly, the reputation is well deserved. The route follows a mountain river — the only one in the country — in an almost magical atmosphere.

All along the way, you cross wooden footbridges, small bridges, rocky sections and natural waterfalls where many people love to dip their feet in summer. The light filtering through the trees at the end of the day makes the place particularly enchanting.

The Ninglinspo is stunning, but it can get very busy on summer weekends. If you're looking for more peace and quiet, set off early in the morning or opt for a weekday.

Why we love this hike

• The feeling of being on a film set
• The constant sound of water
• The small natural pools, perfect in summer
• A fairly accessible route that never gets monotonous

Distance: approximately 6 km

Level: moderate

Ideal for: couples, active families, nature photography

The High Fens: Belgium's wide open spaces

The High Fens probably offer the most unique landscapes in the country. Here, forests sometimes give way to vast wild plateaus covered in heather, peatlands and wooden boardwalks.

In summer, the colours become magnificent, especially in the evening when golden light washes over the moorland plains. The atmosphere is very different from the classic Ardennes: more open, quieter, almost Nordic at times.

The area around Mont Rigi and the Signal de Botrange is perfect for discovering the region without any major technical difficulty.

Not to be missed

• The wooden boardwalks through the peatlands
• The vast, open landscapes
• The morning mists in summer
• The incredible sunsets

Distance: from 5 to 15 km depending on the route

Level: easy to moderate

Ideal for: lovers of wild nature and photography

Lake Nisramont: a spectacular and challenging hike

If you're looking for a more demanding hike with real elevation changes, the circuit around Lake Nisramont is a hidden gem.

The trail alternates between forest sections, sweeping views over the lake and some fairly strenuous climbs. The atmosphere is very wild, especially early in the morning. Several viewpoints give you the feeling of being in a far more mountainous region.

The detour to the Rocher du Hérou is truly worth the effort: the panorama over the Ourthe is one of the most impressive in the country.

What makes this hike special

• Views over the water almost the entire way
• More demanding terrain than the Belgian average
• Very wooded and shaded sections
• A genuine sense of adventure

Distance: approximately 13 km

Level: strenuous

Ideal for: experienced hikers and those who love a challenge

Rochehaut and the Promenade des Échelles

This hike has become legendary among those who love thrills and stunning panoramas.

The route passes via metal ladders fixed into the rock to reach steep trails overlooking the Semois valley. The view over the village of Frahan is probably one of the most famous in Belgium.

A word of caution though: this is not a leisurely stroll. You need to be comfortable with technical sections and avoid wet days.

Why this hike stays with you

• Incredible panoramas over the Semois
• The adventurous and fun nature of the trail
• Technical passages unusual for Belgium
• The charm of Rochehaut

Distance: variable depending on the route

Level: challenging

Avoid: with young children or if you suffer from vertigo

The Anlier Forest: absolute tranquillity

Less well known than the High Fens or the Ninglinspo, the Anlier Forest is nevertheless one of the most peaceful places in Belgium.

Here, there are no crowds or Instagram spots around every corner. Just kilometres of deep forest, quiet paths and a genuine sense of disconnection.

It's the kind of place that's perfect when you want to walk without pressure, listen to the birds and breathe a little.

Perfect for…

• A zen hike
• The intense heat of summer
• Observing nature
• Switching off from the noise

Level: accessible

Atmosphere: calm, wild, immersive

Long-distance trails: for true hiking enthusiasts

For those who dream of several days on the trail, Belgium also has some magnificent long-distance routes.

Among the most well known:

• La Transardennaise: from La Roche-en-Ardenne to Bouillon
• La Venntrilogie: a spectacular crossing of the High Fens
• Le GR 129: Belgium on the diagonal
• La Transgaumaise: a gentler, sunnier atmosphere in the south of the country

These trails allow you to discover a Belgium that is far wilder and more varied than people often imagine.

A few tips before heading out this summer

Even in Belgium, a summer hike requires a minimum of preparation:

• Always bring enough water
• Avoid wearing new shoes on a long route
• Check the weather forecast before tackling rocky trails
• Set off early on very hot days
• Respect protected natural areas, especially in the High Fens

And above all: take your time. The finest hikes are not necessarily the ones you finish the fastest.

Belgium: a true hiking destination

Belgium is often underestimated when it comes to great natural landscapes. Yet, between the Ardennes valleys, the moorland plateaus, the deep forests and the wild rivers, the country offers a surprising diversity for walking enthusiasts.

Whether you're looking for a family stroll by the water or a more demanding day out with significant elevation gain, there are trails here capable of surprising even experienced hikers.

And summer remains probably the best season to discover them.