Nestled atop a lush green hill in the picturesque village of Celles, in the Namur province of Belgium, the Castle Vêves is one of Wallonia’s most captivating historical landmarks. Dating back to the 11th century and fully reconstructed in the 15th century, this medieval castle has preserved its unique charm, featuring elegant turrets, fortified walls, and scenic moats that create a storybook-like silhouette. Every year, visitors from across Belgium and beyond come to explore its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and the magical atmosphere that surrounds it. Inside the château, every room offers a journey back in time. The lavishly decorated salons showcase ancient tapestries, period furniture, and paintings that reveal the lives of the aristocratic Villermont family, who have owned the castle for generations. Visitors will be amazed by the grand fireplaces, spiral staircases, and colorful stained glass windows that bathe the rooms in a warm, almost magical light. Original woodwork and historical furnishings offer a glimpse into the daily life of medieval nobility, making the experience truly immersive. The Castle Vêves also boasts beautiful gardens and green spaces, perfect for a relaxing stroll. The surrounding hills offer panoramic views of the valley and nearby villages, while the French-style gardens and small clearings invite moments of reflection. Seasonal changes bring new beauty: vibrant blooms in spring and summer, and a warm palette of reds and golds in autumn. For nature lovers, the nearby forests provide excellent hiking opportunities. Beyond its historical and natural charm, the Castle Vêves is a living cultural hub. It regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts, medieval workshops, and family-friendly activities, allowing visitors to experience the castle in a dynamic and engaging way. From history enthusiasts to casual travelers, the château offers something unforgettable for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Belgium. Visitor Information & Tips Visiting the Castle Vêves is more than a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersive experience into Belgian history, culture, and natural beauty. With its perfect combination of medieval architecture, lush landscapes, and engaging activities, the château offers an enchanting experience that leaves lasting memories for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Bouillon Medieval Experience – A Unique Journey into the Middle Ages
When visiting the historic town of Bouillon, most travelers are drawn to its iconic medieval castle and the Ducal Museum, both rich in heritage and stories of the past. Yet, to truly grasp the fascinating history of Godfrey of Bouillon and the medieval era that shaped this region, the Bouillon Medieval Experience stands out as an essential and immersive attraction. Unlike traditional museums or castle tours, the Bouillon Medieval Experience offers a dynamic, interactive journey that brings history to life through modern technology and storytelling. Here, history is not just seen — it’s felt, heard, and experienced. Visitors step back in time through engaging multimedia exhibits, immersive projections, and realistic reconstructions that illuminate the life, struggles, and achievements of Godfrey of Bouillon, the legendary knight who led the First Crusade and became Duke of Bouillon. While the castle itself tells the story of medieval fortifications and power, and the Ducal Museum preserves artifacts and regional culture, the Medieval Experience connects the dots by explaining the human stories behind these monuments. It reveals the daily life, the political intrigues, and the fervent spirit of the medieval world in a way that is both educational and captivating for all ages. The exhibition is designed to appeal not only to history enthusiasts but also to families and casual visitors, making it accessible and engaging through a mix of historical facts and interactive displays. Visitors can walk through recreated medieval scenes, hear dramatic narratives, and even witness virtual battles, all designed to deepen the understanding of Godfrey’s legacy and the significance of Bouillon in medieval Europe. In essence, the Bouillon Medieval Experience completes the historical visit to Bouillon by offering a fresh, vivid perspective on a time when knights, castles, and crusades shaped the course of history. For anyone looking to go beyond the surface and truly immerse themselves in the medieval past, this attraction is an unmissable part of the Bouillon journey. 📍 Practical Information Address Bouillon Medieval Experience14, Quai des Saulx,6830 Bouillon, BelgiumLocated in the historic Couvent des Sépulcrines (built in 1626) on the banks of the Semois River.Official site: bouillonmedievalexperience.be Opening Hours Open daily, except December 25th and January 1st. Tickets Contact Accessibility Easily reachable on foot from Bouillon’s city center. Parking available nearby, including spaces for reduced mobility upon request. Why Visit? Even if you’ve already explored the Bouillon Castle and the Ducal Museum, the Bouillon Medieval Experience offers something unique — an immersive show that brings the era of Godfrey of Bouillon and the Crusades to life. Here, you don’t just see history… you experience it.
The Belvedere of Bouillon – A Breathtaking View Over the Ardennes
As an ambassador for the Ardennes and Wallonia, I feel it would be impossible — even unthinkable — not to talk about one of Bouillon’s most remarkable attractions: the Belvedere of Bouillon. This stunning vantage point is far more than just a viewing platform; it is a place where nature and history meet, offering visitors an unforgettable perspective over one of Belgium’s most picturesque towns. Perched high above the winding curves of the Semois River, the Belvedere rewards those who make the journey with a panoramic view that stretches over the dense forests, rolling hills, and the medieval heart of Bouillon itself. From here, the majestic Bouillon Castle rises proudly above the town, a reminder of the city’s strategic importance through the centuries. For lovers of hiking and nature, this is not just a stop — it’s an essential part of the Bouillon experience. Reaching the Belvedere can be part of a scenic walk through the Ardennes woodlands, where the air is fresh, the birdsong is constant, and every step brings you closer to an awe-inspiring view. In autumn, the landscape becomes a patchwork of gold, red, and amber; in spring and summer, the greenery bursts with life. The structure itself is a steel tower rising 30 meters high, allowing you to climb above the treetops for an even more spectacular panorama. From the top platform, the Semois appears like a silver ribbon weaving through the valley, framed by the natural beauty that has made the Ardennes famous. It’s a perfect spot for photography, contemplation, or simply soaking in the vastness of the landscape. Whether you arrive by car, bike, or on foot, the Belvedere offers a moment of pause — a chance to step back from the bustle of travel and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Ardennes. It’s a reminder that Wallonia’s charm lies not only in its historic towns and cultural heritage but also in its unspoiled nature. If you are visiting Bouillon, make sure this is on your itinerary. The Belvedere is more than just a view — it’s an experience, a breath of fresh air, and a celebration of everything that makes the Ardennes so special. Practical Details Address Belvédère of BouillonRue de la Bichetour,6830 Bouillon, Belgium Situated on the right bank of the Semois River, this observation tower stands over 30 meters tall, reaching an elevation of approximately 385 meters above sea level—and about 180 meters above the river. Opening Hours The viewpoint is open 24 hours a day, every day . (Note: Access may require climbing; plan accordingly.) Highlights & Access Accessible by car or via scenic forest hikes, the Belvédère offers a rewarding view of Bouillon and the surrounding Ardennes. Climbing 161 steps leads you to the upper platform with striking 360° panoramas that encompass the town, the castle, and the river valley. Historically, this elevated position served as a visual relay for the castle’s defenses, part of a system of sightlines used for communication over distances
Euro Space Center: A Captivating Experience, but Some Adjustments Needed
Visiting the Euro Space Center in Belgium is like embarking on a fascinating journey into space and its many mysteries. From the moment you step inside, the immersive atmosphere transports you into the world of astronauts. Life-size models, interactive exhibits, and thrilling simulators allow visitors to better understand the challenges of space exploration. The attractions are varied and well-designed to spark curiosity in both children and adults. From the lunar walk simulator to the zero-gravity experience and the 5D shows, there’s no shortage of excitement! It’s an enriching visit where education meets entertainment, making space feel more accessible to everyone. However, one major downside is the ticket pricing for children. The entrance fee is quite high, and the main admission criteria for attractions are based on height (minimum 1m10). Unfortunately, our child, despite meeting this requirement, was unable to fully enjoy the experience. At just 4 years old, several activities were too intimidating, making it difficult for them to participate. A more suitable approach would be to adjust the attraction access based on age rather than just height. As for dining, we took a break at the Voyageur Café, and it was a pleasant surprise! The food was delicious, generously served, and reasonably priced—a definite highlight of the visit. However, a small drawback was the price of drinks. Paying €4.50 for a Fanta or any other standard beverage felt excessive and could be reconsidered to make the experience more family-friendly. Despite these few negatives, the Euro Space Center remains a unique and educational outing, ideal for astronomy enthusiasts and slightly older children. With a few adjustments—particularly regarding attraction accessibility and pricing—the experience could become even more unforgettable for all visitors. 🚀✨ Adresse : 1, Rue Devant les Hêtres, 6890 Transinne, BelgiqueSite officiel : www.eurospacecenter.be Rating ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5