The Best Things To Do in Houffalize, Belgium
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Houffalize, situated in the beautiful Belgian Ardennes, is a picturesque little town that makes for a great day trip or weekend with the family. It’s the perfect place to explore a little bit of European culture, as well as to enjoy some outdoor activities.
From exploring the historic, winding cobblestone streets of the town, to hiking the lush hills of the Ardennes, there’s something for everyone in Houffalize. Here are fun things to do and practical tips on where to eat and where to stay in Houffalize with kids to enjoy your weekend there
In a Nutshell
- Best hotel in Houffalize: Vayamundo (playgrounds, sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pool with a big slide, farm for kids)
Video
Here’s a very short video to get an idea of what it’s like!
Houffalize
Houffalize is very pretty with its river and the main square. It looks like a different place depending on the season
There are also several churches and chapels, each with their own unique history and architecture. The church Sainte-Catherine d’Alexandrie at the main square was founded in 1235 and is in the early Gothic style
Houtopia
For those travelling with kids, Houffalize has plenty to offer. The Houtopia leisure park offers fun activities such as playgrounds, indoor and outdoor learning with fun play areas. Houtopia is located at the main square of Houffalize. It is a great place for kids with an awesome outdoor playground and a fun and educative indoor play area as well (with a huge slide crossing the river!)
For those looking for something a bit more sedate, there are plenty of walking and cycling routes, as well as many nearby lakes and rivers. There are a lot of hikes and mountain bike trails in the area. The Parc Naturel des Deux Ourthes and the Rock of Hérou are in the area. You can ask for details and maps at the Tourism Office at the main square
Where to stay with kids
Vayamundo is nice for little kids with playgrounds, sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pool with a big slide. There is a farm with goats, donkeys and more
Check rates and availability here
Where to eat with kids
Brasserie d’Achouffe
This brewery started by two brothers-in-law in a garage. Now their beer is internationally exported. You might have tried La Chouffe. Each gnome represents one of the beers. You can just go there to eat or you can also book a 1.5 hour guided tour around the brewery. You can find details here
Brasserie d’Achouffe
https://chouffe.com/en-gb/brewery-achouffe/
Achouffe 32, 6666 Houffalize
https://g.page/brasserie-d-achouffe-houffalize?share
Cocoon Hotel Restaurant
Great food, a small playground and right next to the river. The location in the photos is right opposite of the hotel’s main entrance
Cocoon Hotel du Commerce
B-, Rue du Pont 10, 6660 Houffalize
https://goo.gl/maps/nh43N3NNsHBpinpw7 (link to the area in pics)
You can also get nice pastries at the Valentine bakery at the main square
Valentine Boulangerie-Pâtisserie
Pl. de l’Eglise, 6660 Houffalize
https://g.page/valentine-houffalize?share
No matter what you’re looking for, a trip to Houffalize is sure to be a great weekend with the family. With its stunning scenery and plenty of activities for all ages, it’s a great destination for a family holiday.
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Nearby
Houffalize is close to Durbuy, La Roche-en-Ardennes, Bastogne and several skiing and sledding options for the winter
Durbuy
Durbuy is ‘the smallest city’ in the world. There are several activities and nice hikes around there
La Roche-en-Ardennes
La Roche-en-Ardenne with its ruined medieval castle and a wildlife park is nearby
A great hike near the bison farm in Bastogne is also nearby
The Bastogne War Museum is focused on WWII. The two forests nearby are also of historical significance, Bois Jacques for the foxholes and Bois de la Paix is itself a tribute to WWII veterans
There are also several skiing options near Houffalize
Where to enjoy snow with kids in Belgium
Where to enjoy snow with kids in Belgium: All you need to know to find the best snow spots in Belgium with your family categorized into fun for kids, sledding, skiing, hiking! (+Tips)
Baraque de Fraiture
Baraque de Fraiture is a ski resort with a sledding slope and a playground
Val de Wanne
Val de Wanne is an activity center in the Ardennes, where kids can have lots of fun!
Le Monty
Le Monty ski resort is good for sledding with gentle and more adventurous slopes
Samrée cross-country ski resort
In Samrée there are cross-country ski trails, hikes and a small playground for kids
The sources of Aisne
Hike at the beginning at the sources of river Aisne
