Belgium Waterfall Road Trip

Route overview

This 10‑stop Belgium waterfall road trip is one of the most scenic ways to explore the Ardennes. It blends short viewpoints with longer river trails, famous.

Follow the route

This 10‑stop Belgium waterfall road trip is one of the most scenic ways to explore the Ardennes. It blends short viewpoints with longer river trails, famous landmarks with hidden gems, and finishes at Belgium’s tallest waterfall.

If you love forest trails, dramatic gorges and the sound of rushing water, this Belgium Waterfall Road Trip is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the Ardennes. Starting in the north and flowing naturally south‑east, it links 10 waterfalls, 4 river valleys and some of the region’s most beautiful walking spots — all in one clean, easy‑to-follow route.

The 10 Waterfall Stops

A) Chanxhe Waterfalls (Sprimont)

B) Cascade de la Chaudière (Ninglinspo Valley)

& Venus’ Bath (Ninglinspo Valley) in the same location

C) Cascade de Leopold II (Aywaille)

D) Waterfalls of Coo (Coo / Stavelot)

E) Petit‑Coo (Trois‑Ponts)

F) Hoëgne River Waterfalls (Jalhay)

G) Trôs‑Marets Gorge Cascades (Malmedy)

H) Bayehon Waterfall (Longfaye / Malmedy)

I) Reinhardstein Waterfall (Ovifat / Waimes)

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🗺️ Route Breakdown

Waterfall Route — Stop‑by‑Stop Breakdown

A) Chanxhe Waterfalls (Sprimont)

A small series of natural cascades tucked inside a rocky gorge in the northern Ardennes. The area sits along the Amblève River and is known for its moss‑covered stones, narrow forest paths and peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of the lesser‑known waterfall spots in Belgium, making it a quiet opener to the route.

Looking to Stay Overnight?

B) Cascade de la Chaudière (Ninglinspo Valley)

The main waterfall of the Ninglinspo — Belgium’s only officially recognised mountain river. The valley is protected as part of the Aywaille nature reserve, and the river has carved natural pools, slides and mini‑falls over thousands of years. The Chaudière is the largest and most photographed drop on the trail.

& at same location Venus’ Bath (Ninglinspo Valley)

A naturally sculpted rock basin formed by centuries of swirling river erosion. The pool gets its name from its smooth, rounded shape and clear water. It’s one of the most iconic features of the Ninglinspo and a popular photography spot thanks to the surrounding red‑tinted rock.

C) Cascade de Leopold II (Aywaille)

A small but charming waterfall named after King Leopold II. It sits in a shaded forest section near Aywaille and is often combined with short circular walks. The area is known for its lush greenery, mossy boulders and narrow wooden bridges.

D) Waterfalls of Coo (Coo / Stavelot)

Belgium’s most famous waterfall, created when monks diverted the Amblève River in the 15th century to prevent flooding. The twin drop is around 15 metres high and has been a tourist attraction for centuries. The site later became home to the Coo hydroelectric power station and the Plopsa Coo theme park.

E) Petit‑Coo (Trois‑Ponts)

A smaller neighbouring cascade just upstream from the main Coo waterfall. It offers quieter viewpoints and easier access, making it a good stop for quick photos. Historically, the area around Petit‑Coo was used for small water mills and local fishing.

F) Hoëgne River Waterfalls (Jalhay)

Part of the Hautes Fagnes–Eifel Nature Park, the Hoëgne is one of Belgium’s most scenic river trails. The two named waterfalls — Leopold II and Marie‑Henriette — sit along a route known for wooden boardwalks, bridges and fast‑flowing water. The river has a distinctive amber colour due to natural peat in the surrounding moorlands.

G) Trôs‑Marets Gorge Cascades (Malmedy)

A dramatic gorge carved by the Trôs‑Marets River, known for its steep rock walls and powerful water flow. The area has a wilder, more alpine feel compared to other Ardennes valleys. Historically, the gorge served as a natural boundary between local territories.

H) Bayehon Waterfall (Longfaye / Malmedy)

One of Belgium’s highest natural waterfalls at around 9 metres, located in a deep forest gorge. The Bayehon River is notable for its reddish tint, caused by iron oxide in the soil. The waterfall is especially striking after rainfall and is considered one of the Ardennes’ most photogenic spots.

I) Reinhardstein Waterfall (Ovifat / Waimes)

At roughly 60 metres, this is Belgium’s tallest waterfall, created by the Warche River below the medieval Reinhardstein Castle. The castle was restored in the 20th century and overlooks the steep valley. The waterfall is fed by a narrow, fast‑moving stream that drops sharply through the forest.

Where to Stay locally

💡 Tips for the Trip

• Start early – there’s a lot to see.
• Wear proper footwear – several trails are rocky or muddy.
• Bring snacks and water – facilities are limited between stops.
• After heavy rain – the waterfalls are at their most impressive.
• Split into two days – if you want to enjoy longer walks at Hoëgne or Trôs‑Marets.
• Parking varies – some stops have small lay‑bys, others have proper car parks.

📏 Total Distance & Timing

• Driving distance: approx. 90 miles depending on exact parking choices
• Driving time: around 2 hr 45 min total (not including walks & stops)
• Recommended duration:
  • Two – three days if you want to enjoy Hoëgne, Trôs‑Marets or Bayehon properly

🧭 Summary

This 10‑stop waterfall road trip is one of the most scenic ways to explore the Ardennes. It blends short viewpoints with longer river trails, famous landmarks with hidden gems, and finishes at Belgium’s tallest waterfall. It’s a route that delivers constant scenery, variety and that classic Ardennes atmosphere.

Fun things to do locally