A hidden gem not only in Belgium but Europe. Arguably the smallest town even though not accurately so. Like me, if you are looking for a weekend getaway in Europe from the Netherlands, Belgium or even from the hustle bustle of Paris. Durbuy is one great option. I’ve been there twice in the past couple of months. It’s time I shared my experience in a post. A small town with four hundred residents in its centre, what can you find to do here? Here’s the list:
1. Visit the Formula 1 race track
Let’s start with one of the obvious ones. Fan of fast car racing? Red bull or Ferrari? The Circuit of Spa-Francorchamp near Melmedy is one of the favourite tracks among the F1 drivers. It’s about an hour away from Durbuy. Whether you like to watch the race or try your drifting skills on the track. I hear Spa is one of the best places to do that. I am not an expert in this area, but I can say from experience the town was bustling during Belgium Grand Prix 2023. So if you plan your visit around F1 or other races, kill 2 birds with a stone and explore the town of Durbuy as well.
2. Go for a hike or mountain biking
Compared to the rush of F1, just 2 months later, I found the place to still be somewhat of a tourist attraction yet paradoxically, tranquil and pleasant. There are a number of activities for people looking for some peaceful time. Hiking in Durbuy is one of the key activities. You can call Durbuy to be a town of mini hills. Hence, you can go for hikes depending on your fitness and interest level.
The hiking apps recommended routes have 4 routes starting from 4 km. up to 15 km. Depending on the route you choose, you can take in spectacular views of the green valleys, forests, fields, the town and stroll by the River Ourthe. There are multiple apps that can guide you about the routes or you can visit the Tourist office in the city centre. You can buy a map of multiple routes for 1 euro. Some of the popular routes are Bohon loop, Bravauz and Durbuy and Fond de Vedeur. You can use the same trails for mountain biking if that’s your thing.
3. Kayaking
If you are looking for an even more peaceful experience than hiking then Kayaking in Ourthe River is one of the best options. Take your own kayak if you prefer so. Choose a day and time when its less crowded and have the river for yourself. No need to despair if you aren’t experienced and experimenting with kayaking for the first time. The river isn’t too deep at least in summer and you can rent a kayak in Adventure valley starting from 1 hour for up to 8 hours. We tried this for the first time and the little nerves we felt in the beginning were gone soon exploring the techniques and just taking in the striking views at every turn.
4. Explore the City centre
For a tiny city centre of a small town, you get to see quite a bustle. The area is filled with various restaurants, pubs, shops and even hotels, including Hotel Sanglier. Roam around the area and explore the quaint shops to take back home some souvenirs. Walk along the typical European cobblestone streets that you read about in books. I could happily spend my days reading in one of the coffee shops by the street. Who knows? I might even churn out a novel. 😉
If people watching is your favourite pastime, you won’t be disappointed. Every hour you will see a tourist group arriving of various tastes and backgrounds. In just a couple of hours apart from usual tourists groups we saw multiple bikers groups, an entourage of Ferrari drivers, a peloton of vespa riders and a unique pack of Luna / moped riders. The Luna riders scared us for a moment with their alarm system just as we were admiring their vintage rides and helmets. 😉 Which was followed by enthusiastic waves. 🙂
5. Family fun and adventure
If you’re looking for family activities or just some group fun activities then, Adventure valley in Durbuy offers you a myriad of options. From Bowling, fast tag, escape rooms to kayaking and mountain biking. The place also offers stay so you can make the whole visit filled with adventure and fun games.
6. Visit Durbuy Castle
For a typical touristy visit there are quite a few places to see. You can begin with the Durbuy Castle also known as Chateau de Durbuy. The castle was first built in 899. Even though the castle is not open to public from inside, you can admire the beauty around it. It’s especially a beautiful view from the River Ourthe on your kayaking route.
7. Admire Roche a la Falize
The Anticline is situated very close to the Durbuy Castle and one of the main attraction points in the centre of the town. They say the fun part of the city is on top of the Anticline. The term anticline means an inverted u shaped rock. This particular one is 300 million years old. Yes, some of the dinosaurs must have rested right next to it at some point.
8. Ride the mini train
Take a break from hiking and adventure and take a leisurely ride in the mini train. It takes you around the town, castle and the view point la belvedere. The view is stunning both in daytime and at night.
9. Caves of Hotton
Looking for something unique to do? You can visit the Caves of Hotton, located in Wallonia near Hotton are about 15 minutes drive from the city centre. These are speleothem caves about 5 to 6 k.m. long and 60 meters deep. This is something I couldn’t touch on my trip this time, but as they say, you should always leave something for the next time. 🙂
If this isn’t enough, I assure you there’s a lot more that this tiny town called Durbuy offers. I enjoyed the serenity, charm of an old small town and the rush of all kinds of motor enthusiasts. I hear the Christmas market is also something to rejoice in. Next time you are in town, let me know what did you enjoy the most.
Until next week. Ciao!
