During our trips in Belgium, we love taking the time to explore those small towns that have kept their authentic charm. And honestly, Vielsalm is clearly one of them. Located right in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, this is the kind of place where you feel disconnected from the world, surrounded by forests, hills, and rivers.

What I love about this area is that you don’t need to look far to feel good. As soon as you arrive, you breathe the fresh air, enjoy the peace, and that typical Ardennes village vibe hits you. But what makes Vielsalm even more interesting is its history and all the little stories that go with it.

First of all, the name Vielsalm comes from the Salm River, which flows through the town. People have lived in the area for centuries — there’s even evidence going back to Celtic and Roman times. But it was really during the Middle Ages that the village grew in importance, especially thanks to the County of Salm, a region that long held its own, caught between alliances and local conflicts. No wonder there are still remains of that past around, with old buildings and that unique historical atmosphere we love to stumble upon.

Right across from the village church, you’ll also spot a charming little castle. Today, it’s been converted into a restaurant, but it has kept all its original charm and reminds visitors of the time when Vielsalm played a key role in the region. That’s exactly the kind of detail I love when walking around — it adds real character to the place.

But what really caught my attention here is the importance of schist stone and, more specifically, the famous Coticule stone. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s often called the « razor stone » because it’s been used for centuries to sharpen blades. It’s crazy to think that this small Ardennes village was known far beyond Belgium for that. And even today, that unique craftsmanship still lives on — part of what gives the town its identity.

Of course, you can’t talk about Vielsalm without mentioning the famous Macralles, the witches of the region. They’re a big part of the local folklore, and every year, on July 21st, the whole village comes alive for the traditional witches’ sabbath. It’s a fun, slightly mysterious festival that brings together both locals and visitors. And honestly, it’s the kind of quirky tradition that gives real personality to a town — and that both adults and kids love.

And then there’s the nature. If you love hiking, cycling, or simply soaking up the peace and quiet, Vielsalm is a fantastic starting point. With its forests, lakes, small streams, and marked trails, it’s the perfect spot for some fresh air and a break from the daily routine. For us, it’s exactly the kind of place we love to unwind as a family, without overthinking.

For me, Vielsalm is everything I love about traveling: nature, a bit of history, local legends, and, most of all, that simple, authentic atmosphere that you can’t always find. If you get the chance to pass through, make sure to stop by. It might not be the most famous destination in Belgium, but believe me — it’s worth exploring.