Top things to do in Huy & Andenne (Wallonia - Belgium)

This article first appeared in My Travelogue by Bhushavali
 
A TRAIN RIDE ALONG THE TERRES-DE-MEUSE

Just like how I traveled from Charleroi to LaBuissiere by train, along to river Sambre, this time I took the train & bus along the river Meuse. A portion of river Meuse, that connects Namur and Liege goes via Andenne, Huy, and other little towns and villages. So here's all about a long weekend trip from Brussels along the river Meuse. This region is called Terres-de-Meuse which literally means, the 'lands of Meuse'!

HOW TO VISIT TERRES-DE-MEUSE BY TRAIN?
Thanks to SNCB-NMBS Trains, it is super easy to explore this location by train. Take a train from Brussels to Namur; then take the train that connects Namur to Liege. This train stops at Marche-les-Dames, Nameche, Sclaigneaux, Andenne, Huy, Leman, Flemalle, etc. There's something to do near each of these railway stations! Go to Huy Itinerary below, for more info!

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium
Yes, this is Belgium!


Huy Citadel | Fortress of Huy | Top Things to do in Huy

Huy Citadel | Fortress of Huy | Top Things to do in Huy

Huy Citadel | Fortress of Huy | Top Things to do in Huy

Huy Citadel | Fortress of Huy | Top Things to do in Huy

HUY CITADEL (FORTRESS OF HUY) - TOP THINGS TO DO IN HUY
Looking for the perfect spot to stop along the river Meuse, on the map, I came across Huy. Huy is a relatively larger town and has a few accommodation options and some restaurants. At its heart is a fantastic fort which is considered one of the 4 Wonders of Huy. 
History of Fortress of Huy: The current fort was built by the Dutch in 1818-1823 on the site where some kind of castle that existed already since the 9th C CE, called Li Tchestia. It never functioned as an actual fort but was mostly used as a prison. Much later, during WWII, it was occupied by the Axis troops (Germans & co.). The fort was used during WWII as concentration camps, prison cells, interrogation camps, detention rooms, etc. More than 7000 prisoners were held up here during the war times. 
Virtual tour of the Fortress of Huy: Today, the various rooms of the fort, explain each of these. There's a room where the 16th C CE well is still there along with the pulley system. The well was super deep and while photographing it the only thing I could think of, was not to drop the phone into it! There's also a separate pulley by itself for kids to try out! The authentic prison cells built during WWII are still intact. You can go inside those. There's a section of the fort that also showcases medieval games including the Peruvian Sapo game!
Connection between Nord-Pas-de-Calais & Huy: Another section is dedicated to the Nord-Pas-de-Calais mining basin! I had visited Nord-Pas-de-Calais just about a month before I was at Huy and was quite intrigued by the connection! Here's the thing - when the Nazi occupation of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region happened, the miners went on strike! This strike was the largest and longest strike of all time in Europe! In 1941, the number of strikers reached 1,00,000 and that's when many were arrested and 273 of them were imprisoned in the Fortress of Huy! They were here from May 25 to June 20 after which they were sent to Sachsenhausen concentration camp! 
This part of the museum talks about everything in this region during the war - medicine, communication, families of the miners, letters & diaries of the inmates, etc. One of the rooms also served as a chapel during these turbulent times. Bits & pieces of the frescoes in the chapel, still exist. There's also a windmill in one of the rooms which was probably used to feed the inmates. 
Panorama & the view of Bridges: The last stop within the fortress was of course the terrace for a panoramic view. It was impeccable! It was super windy and thanks to the spring season when we visited here, was filled with daisies and looked so pretty! From atop the citadel, the view of the bridges across the river is also fantastic, esp., of Li Pontia (King Baudouin Bridge), which is also one more of the 4 Wonders of Huy! Though the current bridge belongs to 20th C CE, historically, the first stone bridge had been built here in 1294-1303. Another charming bridge is the Iron Bridge which was the first railway bridge built in 1872! This was destroyed during WWI to stop German advancement and was rebuilt in 1924. Located almost just in front of the Citadel, currently, it is a pedestrian-only bridge. 

Where is the Fortress of Huy (Huy Citadel) (on Google Maps)? Fort de Huy
Starting point (base) of the Fortress of Huy (Huy Citadel): Chemin du Comte Bazin
How to reach the Fortress of Huy (Huy Citadel): 1.5km (17 mins walk or 6 stops on LeTEC Bus route 12) from Huy Railway Station. c
Fortress of Huy (Huy Citadel) tickets: €4.5
Fortress of Huy (Huy Citadel) timings: Open only from April to October. Weekends, holidays & school vacations: 10:00AM to 6:00PM; Otherwise: 9:30AM to 5:00PM

Notre Dame Collegiale | Collegiate Church of Our Lady | Free things to do in Huy, Belgium

Notre Dame Collegiale | Collegiate Church of Our Lady | Free things to do in Huy, Belgium

Notre Dame Collegiale | Collegiate Church of Our Lady | Free things to do in Huy, Belgium

Notre Dame Collegiale | Collegiate Church of Our Lady | Free things to do in Huy, Belgium

Notre Dame Collegiale | Collegiate Church of Our Lady | Free things to do in Huy, Belgium

COLLEGIATE CHURCH OF OUR LADY AND SAINT DOMITIAN - FREE THINGS TO DO IN HUY
Steps away from the base of the Citadel is the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Huy and Saint Domitian which also houses one of the 4 Wonders of Huy, the Rose Window. This Gothic cathedral was built throughout the 14th C CE which means that it's a mix of high Gothic and late Gothic with its flamboyant style! 
The Rose Window of 1508 CE, is the biggest of its kind in Wallonia! It measures 6m in diameter outside and 9m inside! 
The treasury of the current church is housed in the oldest part of the church, its Romanesque crypt which dates back to 1066 CE. The treasury of the Church has 4 important shrines. These are 4 of the hardly 20 remaining shrines of the Rheno-Mosan era (Romanesque era of the Meuse-Rhine region). There were also some sculptures that were brought here from the Saint Mengold Church after it was deconsecrated, some that were as old as 12th C CE. 

Where is the Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church) (on Google Maps)Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien
How to reach the Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church): 1.2km (15 mins walk or 5 stops by LeTEC Bus Route 12) from Huy Railway Station. 2 mins from Huy Citadel.
Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church) tickets: Free
Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church) timings: Tue-Sun - 10:00AM to 12:00Noon and 1:00PM to 06:00PM. Closed on Mondays. Closes at 4:00PM in winters. 
Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church) Treasury tickets: €3
Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien (Huy Church) Treasury timings: Apr-June & Sept - 1:00PM to 5:00PM only during weekend; July & Aug: Everyday 2:00PM to 5:00PM

Huy, Belgium | Charming Towns of Wallonia | Unusual Places to visit in Wallonia

Huy, Belgium | Charming Towns of Wallonia | Unusual Places to visit in Wallonia

Huy, Belgium | Charming Towns of Wallonia | Unusual Places to visit in Wallonia
Rue des Frères Mineurs

Huy, Belgium | Charming Towns of Wallonia | Unusual Places to visit in Wallonia

Huy, Belgium | Charming Towns of Wallonia | Unusual Places to visit in Wallonia
Rue des Ramparts

HISTORIC TOWN OF HUY - OLD HUY - CHARMING TOWNS OF WALLONIA
The historic town of Huy is absolutely charming. The town is in 2 sections, on either side of the river Meuse. The historic town of Huy is a part of the right bank. Apart from the Citadel and the Collegiate Church of Our Lady, the rest of the historic town can be walked around and it is one of the things you should not miss in Huy.
The first stop has to the Grand Place. Right at the center here is the fountain called the Li Bassina Fountain (the last of the 4 Wonders of Huy).
The thing that captured my attention here is the public art sculptures. There are 2 compositions here and Atyudarini loved them both because both featured kids! One is called 'Children Playing with Marbles' featuring 3 kids, sculpted by Ursula Förster in 1992 and another is of a little child playing an accordion titled 'Strange Consonances' created by André Bartiaux in 1993. 
Steps away from the Grand Place is the Bethlehem Portal. This is technically, the behind the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Huy but not attached/associated with the church, and is a separate structure. The whole Nativity story incl. Adoration of the Magi, Annunciation of the Shepherds, etc. have all been depicted in the relief sculptures. The Bethlehem Portal in Huy is an exceptional example of Gothic Architecture in Belgium. The strange thing is, its history is lost and its history prior to 16th C CE is unknown! Literally it is the starting point of the Parvis Théoduin de Bavière street which leads to Quai the Namur (on the river bank beside the Tourism Office of Huy).
The next stop was the Saint Mengold church with Nokin House just beside it. The earliest accounts on Saint Mengold Church date back to the 12th C CE. Saint Mengold is the town's 2nd patron saint (following St.Domitien) as well as the 9th Count. After undergoing a couple of restorations, in 1979 it was deconsecrated and today it is a cultural space. When I visited an art exhibition was happening. Nokin House is a 16th C CE building of early Gothic architecture as well. It gets its name from boxer Albert Nokin who ran a cafe here in early 20th C CE. This too serves as an exhibition hall/ cultural center now.
My next stop was the Communal Museum of Huy housed in the historic Friars Minor Monastery. The street beside it is called Rue des Frères Mineurs. It was late in the evening and I couldn't visit the museum so I started walking down Rue des Frères Mineurs. This is perhaps the most beautiful street in Belgium that I've been to - it's not just a cobbled street, but also cobbled walls on either side and a cobbled tiny stone bridge house across the street and nothing else at all!!! One of the houses here is the historic Governer's Mansion which dates back to 1535. The other side of the street leads to Place Verte and another tiny street called Rue des Cloches. This was also very charming in a different way; it's a staircase street, a cobbled parapet wall on one side, and residences on the other! I have to say, Vieux Huy is one of the most picturesque, Instagrammable places in Belgium. Right here at the intersection of Rue des Frères Mineurs and Rue des Cloches is the oldest house of Huy called the Maison près la Tour (which literally means the house near the tower); the Gothic civil architecture belongs to the late 13th C CE. 
When Huy has such a magnificent fortress it only means that the city would have been surrounded by an equally magnificent outer fortification wall/ramparts. Parts of the Ramparts of Huy are still visible in certain places incl. Rue des Ramparts! There's a tiny playground here as well, but it is a very good place to sit out and have a picnic.
Further ahead Rue des Ramparts takes you to the Chemin des Chapelles which is also called the Wall of Huy, because this super inclined road is the finishing point of the Flèche Wallonne cycling race! There's nothing to 'see' here per se.

Places to visit in Historic Town of Huy (on Google Maps): Grand PlaceChildren Playing with Marbles sculptureStrange Consonances sculptureBethlehem Portal, Saint Mengold Church, Nokin House, Friars Minor MonasteryRue des Frères Mineurs, Governer's Mansion, Rue des Cloches, Maison près la Tour, Rue des Ramparts

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium

Buddhist Temple in Belgium | Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute Huy Wallonia | Unusual things to do in Huy Belgium

YEUNTEN LING TIBETIAN INSTITUTE - UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN HUY
I came across this place on Google Maps and was intrigued. Clicked into it and voila, a Buddhist institute with a typical temple that reminded me much of Buddhapadipa Temple in London and Bylaguppe Namdroling Monastery in Coorg! I was so so surprised to find it here and I definitely had to visit.
History of the Tibetian Buddhist Temple in Belgium: The first ever Tibetian center in Belgium was set up in Antwerp in 1975 for the Indian Buddhists of the region. Dorje Chang Kyabje Kalu Rinpoche of the monastery of Sonada in Darjeeling sent Lama Ogyen to set up the institute here. After moving to a couple of other locations to accommodate the growing number of devotees, the temple in the Huy was set up in 2006 and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama. This is now called the 'Old Temple'. In the course of time, the Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute became one of the important Buddhist teaching centers in Europe. The 'New Temple' was built later on and the huge Buddha statue was inaugurated in 2012, again by Dalai Lama. 
Guided tour of the Tibetian Buddist temple in Belgium: Today, there are 2 temples (New Temple, Old Temple), 1 stupa, 1 library, and 1 open-air Buddha sculpture with Prayer wheels, to see here. While the stupa and the open-air sculpture are open to all the 2 temples and the library can only be visited during a guided tour. The tours are only in French or Dutch, however since the temples cannot be visited unless you're in one, that's the only way to go even if you don't know either of the languages. If you don't know either language, I suggest you go for the Dutch tour because they can manage some English and the group size is generally smaller. 
As soon as you enter, you'll see the typical archway with Dharma Chakra (the Wheel of Righteousness) flanked by a deer on either side (representing the First Sermon). The next thing that will definitely catch your eye is the big wall of colorful Prayer Flags. At this central courtyard is the ticket office as well and here's where the tour begins. 
The huge Buddha statue in the new temple was majestic. On either side are 2 sculptures of Boddhisatva. There are scrolls all around that talk about birth, life, insights (the chariot ride with Channa), enlightenment, the first sermon, taming of Nalagiri, and all the way until the death of Buddha. It was time for me to explain the scrolls to Atyudarini from the snippets we've already read on Amar Chitra Katha! There are prayer texts written in many places, not only on scrolls but also on pillars, ceilings, etc in Classical Tibetian Language. 
The open-air Buddha has huge as well, and just opposite the entrance of the new Temple. This statue is surrounded by prayer wheels. The tour then continues inside to have a quick look at the library and the Old Temple. The Old Temple only has frescoes and not a sculpture. This is absolutely charming and much more quaint and peaceful and has such good vibes! The last stop of the tour is the Stupa which is what you'll see first as soon as you enter the premises, closer to the car park. 
This is in a vast green area, where you can sit down, relax, have a picnic, etc. That said, there's no eatery per se here, but there's a canteen for the resident students & retreat guests. You get a drink, biscuits & snacks at the canteen, at the end of the tour. But if you need anything more than that, you need to pack it and bring it. 

Keep in mind that this is a religious institution, so wear appropriate clothing. You can definitely visit whether or not you're a Buddhist by faith. It would be a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on - the 2 temples & the stupa require you to remove the shoes at the door. 

Where is Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute (Buddhist Temple in Huy Belgium)? Institut Tibétain Yeunten Ling
How to reach Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute (Buddhist Temple in Huy Belgium)? 3.5km from Huy Railway Station. 2km (30 mins walk) from Grand Place & Hotel Porta Nova 21.
Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute (Buddhist Temple in Huy Belgium) Guided Tour Tickets: €8
Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute (Buddhist Temple in Huy Belgium) Guided Tour Timings: Every Sunday 1:30PM. It is not possible to book online. Go here at 1:15PM and register.

Le Petit Parc Ben-Ahin | Free things to do in Huy, Wallonia with Kids
Colza Plantation

Le Petit Parc Ben-Ahin | Free things to do in Huy, Wallonia with Kids

Le Petit Parc Ben-Ahin | Free things to do in Huy, Wallonia with Kids

Le Petit Parc Ben-Ahin | Free things to do in Huy, Wallonia with Kids

Le Petit Parc Ben-Ahin | Free things to do in Huy, Wallonia with Kids

BEN-AHIN LE PETIT PARC - THINGS TO DO IN HUY WITH KIDS
The railway station just next to Huy is Bas-Oha. Ben-Ahin Petit Parc is about 2km from Bas-Oha, however on the other side of the river and it isn't possible! So, the only way to go here easily is by bus. Le Petit Parc, as the name suggests, is 'a small park'. As soon as you get in, you see the wolves! There are about 4 wolves in a separate section. Further ahead, beside the parking lot are the sheep and goats. Walking ahead, there are the alpacas, poneys, and donkeys. Beyond that was a camel! I was pretty surprised to see a camel there and it was the first time Atyudarini was seeing one in her life! 
Further ahead was an enclosure for Marmosets. They are quite amusing animals. There were 3 marmosets and they were super interactive and probably the favorite of Atyudarini. Then there's an enclosure for squirrels as well. The squirrels were quite friendly and interactive as well. There were quite a few exercise set-ups for the squirrels (like the guinea pig exercise toys). There were some enclosures for birds - Pheasants, Cranes, etc. It was evening by then and guess what, the wolves howled together before retiring for the day. There's a nice little cafe and a playground too. It was just a perfect little park for the adults to unwind with a cup of coffee while the kids hit the playground.
The small walk from the bus stop to Le Petit Parc requires a special mention. This is where an entire field was filled with Colza plantation (Rapeseed) and it was in full bloom when we went. A yellow patch that was way too picturesque, against the hilly backdrop!

Where is Le Petit Parc Ben Ahin (on Google Maps)Le Petit Parc
How to reach Le Petit Parc Ben Ahin? The nearest bus stop to Le Petit Parc Ben Ahin is Ben Ahin Ecole which is 700m (8 mins walk) away. LeTEC Bus Route 12 connects Huy Railway Station to Ben Ahin Ecole. There's a bus every hour and the journey takes 15 mins.
Le Petit Parc Ben Ahin Tickets: €4
Le Petit Parc Ben Ahin Timings: Tue to Sun 10:00AM to 8:00PM

Espace Museal d'Andenne | Things to do in Andenne with Kids | Museumpassmusees
The realistic sculpture of Scladina

Espace Museal d'Andenne | Things to do in Andenne with Kids | Museumpassmusees

Espace Museal d'Andenne | Things to do in Andenne with Kids | Museumpassmusees

Espace Museal d'Andenne | Things to do in Andenne with Kids | Museumpassmusees

Espace Museal d'Andenne | Things to do in Andenne with Kids | Museumpassmusees

ESPACE MUSEAL D'ANDENNE - THINGS TO DO IN ANDENNE
The next railway station after Bas-Oha is Andenne, which is also a relatively bigger town, like that of Huy. A short walk from the railway station took us to EMA (Espace Museal d'Andenne) housed in Le Phare. The museum is in 3 levels, one each for Ceramics, Prehistory, and temporary exhibitions.
The prehistory level has been so well made to make it interesting for children and Atyudarini loved it. The first display is of skulls of various primates from Australopithecus sediba, all the way to Neanderthals and Homo Sapiens. Further ahead are a few videos of archaeologists at work and then comes the main area which has a very realistic sculpture of Scladina, the daughter of the soil!!! 
Who is Scladina? Scladina was a Neanderthal child whose bones were discovered in the Sclaigneaux Caves (more details below; the caves can be visited too). The sculpture is freakishly realistic. She was surrounded by various artifacts and interactive displays which explained all about it! The one that Atyudarini loved the most was an interactive digital display (like a video game) in which you have to help Scladina hunt a deer, drag the carcass to her cave, skin it for clothing, and roast it for meat! In the process, the video teaches about the precision & stealth needed to hunt, the effort needed to move the carcass, how to skin a deer, etc. 
A section is dedicated to other animals. The lower floor is dedicated primarily to Ceramics and all the other specialties of Andenne. This also has an interactive digital display on how to make a ceramic vase, ways to decorate it, and how to bake it in a kiln.

Where is Espace Museal d'Andenne (on Google Maps)Espace Museal d'Andenne
How to reach Espace Museal d'Andenne? 1.3km (17 mins walk) from Andenne railway station
Espace Museal d'Andenne Tickets: €8 (included in museumPASSmusées)
Espace Museal d'Andenne Timings: Tue to Sun 10:00AM to 6:00PM

Scladina Sclayn Cave | Things to do in Andenne Sclaigneaux | Best Caves to visit in Belgium | Caves in Belgium to visit with children

Scladina Sclayn Cave | Things to do in Andenne Sclaigneaux | Best Caves to visit in Belgium | Caves in Belgium to visit with children

Scladina Sclayn Cave | Things to do in Andenne Sclaigneaux | Best Caves to visit in Belgium | Caves in Belgium to visit with children

Scladina Sclayn Cave | Things to do in Andenne Sclaigneaux | Best Caves to visit in Belgium | Caves in Belgium to visit with children

Scladina Sclayn Cave | Things to do in Andenne Sclaigneaux | Best Caves to visit in Belgium | Caves in Belgium to visit with children

SCLAYN/SCLADINA CAVE - THINGS TO DO IN SCLAIGNEAUX
If you've visited Espace Museal D'Andenne, you'd definitely want to visit Sclayn Cave where the archaeology associated with it happened. So there we went. It is possible to go into these caves only by a guided tour. This is closer to the next railway station Sclaigneaux.
The tour was quite child-friendly and the guide began it with toys! First, she showed toys of Neanderthals and Homosapies and then a long tape that explained the timeline from dinos to Neanderthals to mammoths to us! Then she introduced who Scladina was, and since we had already visited Espace Museal d'Andenne, Atyudarini had a very clear idea about her. She showed us replicas of some of Scladina's bones unearthed here. Soon, it was time to head to the cave. A very short hike, and we were at the entrance of the cave. The Scalyn cave is the largest Belgian prehistoric excavation site that is still being excavated and accessible to the public! The first chamber is dedicated to explaining how excavation happens, the difference between rocks & fossils, how are the fossils cleaned, etc. Again, the guide made it all in a child-friendly way. Next, we went further down into the cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Next, the guide showed us several fossils that were embedded in the ground there as well as a few fossils excavated from there including a bear jaw with a tooth!  Archaeologists have discovered flint tools, bones from mammoths, bears, and hyenas, as well as Scladina's bones here.

Playground near Scladina/Scalyn cave: We did reach the caves about an hour earlier which meant we had to kill some time. So I headed off to the riverfront with Atyudarini. Luckily there were this little playground and picnic tables right there to serve the cyclists as the RAVel runs along the river Meuse.

Where is Scladina/Scalyn Cave in Andenne (on Google Maps)Centre Archéologique de la Grotte Scladina
How to reach Scladina/Scalyn Cave in Andenne? 1.2km (14 mins walk) from Sclaigneaux Railway Station. The last 300m is a bit uphill.
Phone number for reservation at Scladina/Scalyn Cave: +32 (0)85 84 96 95
Scladina/Scalyn Cave in Andenne Tickets: €8
Scladina/Scalyn Cave in Andenne Timings: 
        Open only from April to August. Reservation by phone necessary.
        Apr-June: Sundays & Public holidays only - French tours at 2:00PM. Dutch tours at 11:00AM
        Spring & Summer school vacations: Wed to Fri - French tours only at 2:00PM; Weekends -you French tours at 2:00PM. Dutch tours at 11:00AM
Where is the playground near Scladina/Scalyn Cave in Andenne (on Google Maps)? Plaine de Jeux

Beautiful views of Wallonia from atop Huy Citadel

Charming towns of Wallonia - Andenne

Charming towns of Wallonia - Andenne
A picnic with MTR Puliogare & Haldirams Murukku along the River Meuse at Andenne!

SAMSON FORTRESS - THINGS TO DO IN NAMECHE
The next railway station is Nameche and here are the ruins of the historic Samson Fortress. The fort is in complete ruins and it requires a hike through a wild wooded area without a trail to reach atop, but that's totally worth it. The view of River Meuse here is stunning from here and you can often see goats grazing around. 
Samson Fortress was built to look over River Meuse and River Samson from up above. A castle has been here forever - since Roman times, through Merovingian times, and later. In the 9th C CE, the fortress withstood the assaults of the Normans, but later as canons began to be used in wars, the fortress couldn't withstand them. Also, Namur Citadelle started gaining more importance and this fell into disuse. By 17th C CE, it was demolished and today all that's left is ruins! 

Where is Samson Fortress in Nameche (on Google Maps)Forteresse de Samson
How to reach Samson Fortress in Nameche? There is no way-marked trail to go to Samson Fortress, you'll just have to hike through a dirt track to go atop the Samson Fortress. There are 2 starting points to reach here - beside Ruelle Moineresse 3 (ideal) and beside Rue de Mosseroux 14. Below is a hiking route via Komoot. 
Samson Fortress in Nameche Tickets: Free
Samson Fortress in Nameche Timings: 24x7
Samson Fortress in Nameche Hiking Route: 3km loop route via Komoot. Walk 5 mins (400m) across the bridge, and get down the stairs to reach the RAVel path beside the river which is on this 3km loop.

ABBAYE NOTRE DAME DU VIVIER - THINGS TO DO IN MARCHE-LES-DAMES
I'm yet to visit here, so here's some basic information. Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier is located about a km from Marche-les-Dames railway station. The beginnings of this Abbey date back to the First Crusade War in 1096-99 CE. A religious community was set up here in 1103 CE for the widows of the First Crusade War! In the 13th C CE, the sisters of the abbey found a statue of the Virgin Mary in the Fish Pond here which is why the place is called Notre Dame du Vivier. It existed as a functional abbey till 18th C, when French Revolution happened. Then it changed several hands and was used for religious purposes on & off. This is the only historic women's abbey that's still intact!
The home to Clem de Castro Abbey beer, today this abbey has been converted into a domain with animals, restaurants, picnic areas, hiking areas, and more. The best part according to me, is the possibility of having a picnic served under the trees surrounded by cows, goats, horses, emus, alpacas, and chickens! 

Where is Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier (on Google Maps): Notre Dame du Vivier
How to reach Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier1.2km (13 mins walk) from Marche-les-Dames railway station
Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier Tickets: €35 for lunch in the meadow. 
Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier Timings: It is open on group guided tours. Otherwise, the best way to access the domain is by having lunch here! Book a picnic at the Notre Dame du Vivier official website.

Charming towns of Wallonia - Huy

Charming towns of Wallonia - Huy

Portanova 21 Review | Huy Hotels

BEST HOTELS IN HUY - HUY HOTELS - WHERE TO STAY IN HUY?
For a more flexible budget or hostels or luxury hotels, it might be a good idea to stay in Namur or Liege and commute to these places to visit by train. There are a few hotels in Andenne and Huy and there are many options on Airbnb at all these places, along the river, many, in fact, overlooking the river.

B&B PortaNova 21, Huy Review:
We stayed in this little charming B&B called PortaNova 21 in the heart of Huy, steps away from the Grand Place. Quite amusingly, 21 is literally the door number of the B&B! 
Porta Nova 21 is a regular apartment with 2 floors. The B&B is on the 1st floor and the owner Mr.Tony, lives on the 2nd floor. Though the staircase is narrow, it has mobility solutions, meaning, there's a sliding stair lift (chair glide) attached to it making it accessible for the elderly and differently-abled as well.
The room is simple and elegant with all modern amenities. Mr.Tony had stocked some basics like tea, coffee, bread, croissants, etc to make it easier to begin with. Carrefour is located 3 mins walk from here and Delhaize is 4 mins walk. We did a quick shopping for veggies, tortillas, etc. The room has a fridge, and combi-oven (microwave-cum-OTG) apart from the stove top, which made things easier. While there are quite a few restaurants, esp., at Grand Place, I wasn't really sure of the availability of economical vegetarian food here which was the main reason we chose a BnB with kitchen here. 
There are towels, blankets, and TV available here. The plumbing in the bathroom is excellent and modern and includes a bidet as well! Keep in mind that the shower has a bit higher flooring than the rest of the bathroom which doesn't help in containing the water - put down one of the towels to help absorb the overflowing water and make sure to fold the shower curtain inwards. Toiletries are available as well as a hairdryer and hot water. The bed was of course super comfortable.

Where is B&B PortaNova 21 in Huy (on Google Maps): PortaNova 21
How to reach B&B PortaNova 21 in Huy1.5km (19 mins walk or 5 stops on LeTEC Bus Route 126a or 102 to Huy Grand Place & 3 mins walk) from Huy Railway Station
B&B PortaNova 21 Phone number+32 498 742 959
Reserve a room at B&B PortaNova 21 in Huy: via Booking.com
B&B PortaNova 21 room rates: Begins at €136 for the entire apartment

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HUY & TERRES-DE-MEUSE?
The best time to visit the region is on at least 2 days tour that includes a Sunday and a public holiday from April to October! Why? The guided tour at Tibetian Institute happens only on Sundays and the guided tour of Scladina Cave happens only on Sundays & Public holidays and doesn't happen in winter. 

HUY ITINERARY (TERRES DE MEUSE ITINERARY)
There is so much to do in this region along the river Meuse from Namur to Liege, that you can spend several days together here. I went on 2 different day trips + a 3-day stay and still, I haven't seen some areas! Since the region is well connected by SNCB-NMBS Belgian railways, it is also possible to visit the region on multiple day trips. Click here for my article on the ways to find cheap train tickets in Belgium.
So below are the day-trip options. Of course, you can combine these day trips with an overnight stay in the region to make a long weekend out of it!
  • Day 1 - Abbaye Notre Dame du Vivier & Samson Fortress (Marche-les-Dames & Nameche railway stations).
  • Day 2 - Grotte Scladina and EMA (Sclaigneaux & Andenne railway stations)
  • Day 3 - Le Petit Parc & Huy Citadel (Huy railway stations and bus to Ben-Ahin)
  • Day 4 - Historic town of Huy, Collegiate church, Institut Tibétain Yeunten Ling (and Mont Mosan too if you have kids) 
  • Day 5 - Prehistomuseum, Val Saint-Lambert Cristal Discovery, and Flemalle Fort (Leman railway station)

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Top things to do in Huy | Weekend trip from Brussels by train Top things to do in Huy | Weekend trip from Brussels by train

Top things to do in Huy | Weekend trip from Brussels by train Top things to do in Huy | Weekend trip from Brussels by train

Bhushavali

An ardent traveler by passion. Being an ex - Art History Teacher, my area of interest especially lies in Nature and Heritage. Visited 85 UNESCO World Heritage sites as of June 2022. I've been listed among the Top 7 Women Travel Bloggers of India, Top 50 in UK. I have been interviewed in a couple of TV Shows, Radio Channels and Events as well. Read more about me and read the testimonials of different brands

10 comments:

  1. We do love travelling in Europe by train. So many great stops when you take the train from Brussels. And so many things to see and do on the stops in Huy. We would love to wander and explore the Fortress with the panoramic view. We would make sure to visit both charming sections on either side of the Meuse River. And would look for those public art sculptures. How interesting to find a Tibetan Buddhist Temple here! We would definitely keep going on the train and plan a stop to see the Scalding Cave. I admire your energy at keep going to other stops and checking out the things to do. But you sure found some fun spots for your daughter to enjoy. Linda (LD Holland)

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  2. Huy clearly has so much to see and both here and it's also great to take the kids. The Tibetan Buddhist temple was really surprising to see here and to also learn about its history. The views from the fortress looks incredible and the sculpture of Scladina was interesting to see too. Your daughter had so much fun, you can see it on her face!

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  3. I never heard about these places. But via this article and your amazing pictures I can see how beautiful is the historic town of Huy. Looks amazing place for staying and live a slow travel life there. wish to vist thes places soon

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  4. I have been to Namur and Dinant, but I didn't explore more of the area. Huy looks like a wonderful place to see. It does remind me a little bit of the historical centre of Namur, with its fortress on the hill and the medieval looking houses. The Yeunten Ling Tibetian Institute is definitely a unique find, I wouldn't have expected to see something like it in Belgium. Shame they don't offer tours in English as well. I did take a tour in Czech once, by mistake, so I know they are quite difficult as you can see the temples, but can't really understand their history or purpose unless you read about them before.

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  5. I would love to do this tour. The fortress at Huy sounds exciting with its deep history. But I loved the outdoors with its sculptures of the children and the park with animals. I must say, it was a pleasant surprise to see a Tibetan temple there. It would be nice to see the Rose Glass window in the church. I guess, there would be a pass for the train, will check your post for cheap tickets.

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  6. What a fantastic itinerary for Huy! Huy has several interesting places to visit. The Collégiale Notre-Dame et Saint-Domitien features distinctively designed interiors. I adore the vividly colorful and intricately crafted attributes of the Tibetan Buddhist Temple! Going into the Scladina/Scalyn cave also appears exciting. I can't wait to take part in this incredible trip soon!

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  7. Looks like there are many influences in this area of Belgium -- certainly a lot of French. But I was especially surprised to see a Buddhist Temple! I would really enjoy visiting all the beautiful churches and traveling by train makes it easy to get off and visit several places along the way.. Thanks for introducing Huy and this area to us!

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  8. Huy sounds truly amazing with a few surprises, too. I'm fascinated in all the foreign influences. Of course, there's a lot of French influence but a Tibetan Buddhist monastery? That's not expected! What a wonderful place to explore -- to see the historic buildings and medieval homes. Being able to visit by train is also a plus!

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  9. Puloma BhattacharyaJune 23, 2023 at 8:38 AM

    Huy and Andenne have lot of exciting things to do. The fortress of Huy is an iconic spot to visit with an interesting history linked to world war II. The rose window of the Collegiate church of our lady is beautiful and the statue of the kids playing with marbles.The statue of the Neanderthal girl at Space Museal D'Andenne Scladina is so intriguing and real. I'm sure Atyudarini enjoyed the Ben Ahin petit park marmosets and ponies.
    The Tibetian institute also looks a great place to visit.

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  10. Puloma BhattacharyaJune 23, 2023 at 8:39 AM

    Huy and Andenne have lot of exciting things to do. The fortress of Huy is an iconic spot to visit with an interesting history linked to world war II. The rose window of the Collegiate church of our lady is beautiful and the statue of the kids playing with marbles.The statue of the Neanderthal girl at Space Museal D'Andenne Scladina is so intriguing and real. I'm sure Atyudarini enjoyed the Ben Ahin petit park marmosets and ponies.
    The Tibetian institute also looks a great place to visit.

    ReplyDelete

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