Top 10 places to swim in the Ardennes
Ah yes, it can get hot in the Ardennes!
In the summer, it's not unusual for the temperature to reach 30°. You may not believe it, but we are sure of it, these 10 places where swimming is authorised will delight you!
1. The L'Eau d'Heure lakes
Another must-see place in the province of Namur! This group of five lakes offers more than 25 different activities, plus accommodation and restaurants. If you'd prefer to be on your own, leave the centre and go off for a wander in the surrounding countryside.
2. Lultzhausen beach
Lovely fine sand, an idyllic setting and an extra benefit: no motorised craft are allowed on the Haute-Sûre lake. A few canoes, a solar-powered boat and pedalos are available.
3. Maboge beach
The River Ourthe at Maboge beach is delightful! A natural swimming place surrounded by greenery. Maboge is also the start point for canoe and kayak trips down the Ourthe. Showers, toilets and a café are available for your comfort.
Website: www.cirkwi.com
Water quality: Excellent
Location: Maboge, a few kilometres from La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium
4. The Ninglinspo valley
At Ninglinspo, the swimming places are different to most others. Here, in this small, romantic valley near Remouchamps, the river has carved out for you a series of natural swimming pools and waterfalls deep enough to swim in. An absolute dream! "The stag's baths" can be reached after a short walk of 2.5km.
Website: www.ovatourisme.be
Water quality: Excellent
Location: Follow directions from the inn at Nonceveux, Belgium
OUR expEriences on the water
5. Burfelt naturist beach
Ah yes! You can work on your all-over tan in the Ardennes. Burfelt naturist beach is located on the shore of the Haute-Sûre lake, close to the Forest Discovery Centre. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the lake's beaches.
Website: www.facebook.com
Water quality: Excellent
Location: Insenborn, near the Forest Discovery Centre, Luxembourg
6. Vieilles Forges lake
A major tourist attraction of the southern Ardennes, the French have been going there for decades. The beach runs along the edge of a pine forest and lifeguards are on duty from June to August, making it perfect for families with children. There are plenty of other attractions nearby, including Elfy Park and CAP Ardennes Events. It should be top of your day-trips list!
7. Conchibois lake
A nice refreshing place to stop at the heart of the Gaume district. As well as the top-quality lake water, visitors can enjoy many other attractions there, including a playground, a cafeteria, a skate park and walks in the surrounding countryside.
8. Bambois lake
Ahhh, so much natural beauty at the Bambois lake... The magnificent gardens are also worth a visit! There are also aquariums and exhibitions for visitors who'd like a cultural break between swims.
9. Robertville lake
Enjoy diving into the pure lake water from the sprung diving boards. Eastern Belgium has many lakes where life is good!
And, on a hot summer's day, what could be better than a barbecue with family or friends on the lake aboard one of the many Grill Islands?
More information here.
10. Bairon Lake
Here you'll find all the necessary infrastructure for making the most of the cool water in the lake. 120 hectares, a leisure centre and a bar-brasserie... The lake is located around 40km south of Charleville-Mézières.
Bonus: Bütgenbach lake
Enjoy the Bütgenbach lake and the many activities organised for all the family at the Worriken sports and leisure centre.
You can swim, fish, sail and canoe on site, or simply sunbathe on the beach.
Nearby are a campsite, restaurants, self-catering tourist accommodation, a multi-sports hall and a Sports, PE and Open Air Activities Centre (ADEPS).
