The Semois valley is to Belgium what the Verdon Gorges are to France: a territory with spectacular nature, shaped by a river winding through forests and ridges. Between Bouillon, Vresse, Florenville and Chiny, the Semois crosses 80 km of varied landscapes. Here is everything you need to know for a memorable discovery.
A river at the heart of the landscape
The Semois rises in Belgian Lorraine, near Arlon, and meanders for nearly 200 km before joining the Meuse at Monthermé, in France. It is in its Ardennes section — between Florenville and Vresse — that it unfolds its most spectacular landscapes.
The pronounced meanders have created iconic panoramas: the Tombeau du Géant at Botassart, the Frahan belvedere, the Rochehaut loops, the deep forests around Chassepierre. Every season changes the palette: intense greens in spring, ochres and reds in autumn, mysterious mists in winter.
The best nature activities in the valley
Hiking
The GR16 follows the Semois for nearly 100 km and remains one of Belgium's most beautiful hikes. Many shorter loops let you discover sections in a day: Frahan-Rochehaut (12 km), Chassepierre-Lacuisine (8 km), Bouillon-Corbion (15 km).
Kayak
Several operators offer kayak descents between Cugnon and Bouillon, or Vresse and Membre. The Semois is calm, accessible to beginners and families. Allow 3 to 5 hours depending on the section.
Mountain bike and e-bike
The RAVeL network and forest tracks offer hundreds of kilometres for cyclists. The area is hilly — electric assistance is a real comfort.
All-terrain electric scooter
More recent and more original, the all-terrain electric scooter is winning over nature lovers. Departing from Martué (Florenville), Gaume Experience offers a dedicated 30 km loop in the valley — the perfect combination of freedom, riding pleasure and immersion in the landscape.
Nature walks and photography
The belvederes accessible by car (Botassart, Frahan, Rochehaut, Membre) offer 180° views over the meanders. Ideal for photographers — morning and evening light are magical.
Explore the valley differently
Among the original activities, all-terrain electric scooter rides let you cover more ground than on foot, without the effort of mountain biking, while remaining fully immersed in the landscapes. Departing from Martué, near Florenville, the "Semois Valley" loop of 30 km combines forests, panoramas and wilder sections.
Price: €65/person, helmet provided, briefing included, onboard GPS. It is an experience accessible to beginners after a 10–15 minute briefing.
An ideal destination for a nature stay
Whether for a day, a weekend or a full week, the Semois valley offers a diversity of activities, panoramas and gourmet addresses (local trout, Orval beer, countryside restaurants) that make it one of the favourite nature destinations of the Belgians.
Autumn (September–October) and late spring (May–June) are the most spectacular seasons for colour and light. Summer remains pleasant — the valley is cooler than the surrounding plains — and winter offers a silent atmosphere, ideal for those seeking calm.
Our tip
Combine hiking and electric scooter over 2 days: one day on foot around Bouillon-Frahan, one day on a scooter for the big Semois loop. You will have explored the best of the valley.
Book the Semois loop